A New Bedford staple is returning with some major upgrades.

Back in September 2018, Charlie's Hot Dogs on Acushnet Avenue closed its doors indefinitely. Fast forward to 2023 and two new owners have bought the landmark and on a mission to bring back some New Bedford nostalgia.

As of April 1, Charlie's will be open once more. Owners Natasha Ponte Dasilva and brother-in-law Jeff Dasilva are resurrecting a business that has given joy to so many in and around the city and they plan to bring more than just hot dogs to the table.

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"We purchased the building back in August of 2022 and have been remodeling and getting our inspections passed ever since," Natasha said. "We plan on keeping the menu and business plan similar, but we have some changes as well with more of a Portuguese vibe like cacoila, bifanas and fries plates, rice and round fries, steak plates, steak tips and much more."

Courtesy Natasha Ponte Dasilva
Courtesy Natasha Ponte Dasilva
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Of course, the classic hot dogs and pizza will be served up every day, along with a new coffee drink called "The Charlie" to wash it down.

"We're very excited; we've come a long way," Natasha said.

"We used to go there when we were kids," Jeff said. "Now, we're giving back to a whole new generation."

The best news has to do with the business hours.

Charlie's will be open daily for lunch and dinner, like the old days, but also plans to open for breakfast at 5 a.m. The stand will serve breakfast sandwiches, coffee, chocolate milk, hot chocolate and breakfast to go as the sun rises. At 11 a.m., it's on to hot dogs and other lunch items.

That's not all.

Late-night hot dogs are coming back to New Bedford.

Charlie's plans to be open until 2 a.m. Thursday through Sunday and is working on a plan that would allow it to stay open until 3 a.m.

Stay tuned, New Bedford. Charlie's is back in business.

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