Chicago Hotdogs & More
Bringing the Windy City South: How a College Entrepreneur is Serving Up Success
Chicago Hotdogs & More is a locally owned restaurant in Carbondale, Illinois, serving up real Chicago-style street food. Known for 100% beef hotdogs, Italian beef, Polish sausages and more, the restaurant delivers authentic flavor at affordable prices. With a laid-back, sports-themed atmosphere, it’s a go-to spot for college students, locals, and anyone craving something different and delicious.
Chicago Hotdogs & More is a family-run franchise, and the Carbondale location opened in fall 2024. However, the business faced early challenges with marketing and reaching new customers. Owner Elijah Krawczykowski, a Carbondale native and recent SIU graduate in business management and entrepreneurship turned to the Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU for help—on the recommendation of his father, an SIU employee.
Elijah began working one-on-one with SBDC advisors to refine his business plan and better define his target market. He also participated in the Carbondale Accelerator Program, a 10-week course for early-stage businesses focused on topics like registration, marketing, financials, and growth strategy.
“I gained a better understanding of my own business,” Elijah said. “By collaborating with the SBDC, I was able to better understand my target audience and work on expanding in certain areas.”
Though Elijah grew up in Carbondale, his family ties to Chicago inspired the concept behind the business. With guidance from the SBDC and hands-on experience running a restaurant, he’s already thinking about next steps. “I hope to expand in the near future—potentially opening a location on the SIU campus. If I can make it work here, I think I could do something similar on other college campuses.” He also plans to expand the current menu to meet growing demand.
With hard work, support from the SBDC, and a passion for quality food, Elijah is building more than just a restaurant—he’s building a brand that’s rooted in family, community, and a true taste of Chicago.