Gary’s Best Hot Dogs Staying Open After Retirement Confusion

If you’re a fan of Gary’s Best Hot Dogs, there’s no need to panic. The beloved New Bedford hot dog stand is not closing.

Why Do People Think Gary’s Best Is Closing?

Some members of the public (including die-hard fans) misinterpreted the owners’ comments to local media and on social media. The confusion began back in November when the current owners expressed a desire to retire in 2025.

“The media has explained our plans pretty well on numerous occasions,” Gary’s Best wrote in a Facebook post last month. “Yet the confusion remains.”

Is Gary’s Best for Sale?

Yes, the business was officially listed in March for $650,000. However, the owners, Joe and Anita Franco, are not shutting down operations. They’re looking for the right person to continue the dream.

“We pray whomever purchases the business and real estate will carry on the Gary’s Best legacy to the next level to the ‘best’ of their ability,” Anita Franco told WBSM.
“This is extremely bittersweet. Joe and I will help the new owners transition to an extent, naturally.”

Did They Ever Say They Were Closing?

Not at all. In fact, they directly addressed this misunderstanding.

“There was never a word mentioned that we would be closing up for good and that Gary’s Best would no longer exist,” they clarified in a Facebook post in May.

What’s the Future of Gary’s Best?

The only planned change ahead is in ownership, not operations. Joe and Anita Franco are retiring, but they’re committed to helping the next owner take the reins. The famous New Bedford hot dog stand plans to stay open and continue serving loyal customers.

In fact, they changed their sign out front over the weekend to try to spell it out even clearer.

"Open 11AM to 7PM," reads the sign.

The Bottom Line

Chin up, Gary’s fans! Contrary to the buzz on Ashley Boulevard, your favorite hot dog stand could very well thrive for another 40 years.

Remembering 40 Years of Gary's Best Hot Dogs

Gary's Best Hot Dogs in New Bedford has been around for over 40 years and we take a walk down memory lane with the family that has owned it that long.

Gallery Credit: Jackson Scott