Johnny O moved to Bridgeport, Chicago at age 11 (1946), from Harrison & Laflin, the "Little Italy" neighborhood. He attended Armor School, Tilden & Kelly High School. At age 12 he sold hotdogs from a pushcart out in front of Spiegels and by the age of 16 he expanded to 2 locations in front of Comisky Park. He opened his first "brick & mortar" business in 195, "Johnny O's Famous Beef Stand" at 812 W. 31st St and then another called "Dogland" at 35th & Lituanica in 1963.  In 1970, he opened his present location and in 1986 he owned the restaurant "Evans & Arthur" at 1102 W. 35th St. which closed when Spiegels relocated. As a youth, Johnny was very active in baseball, boxing and quarterbacked for the local semi-pro football team "Chi Allies."  He is an Army Veteran from the Korean War. Johnny O also sang the National Anthem at old Comisky Park, was a local cabaret singer (stage name Johnny Powers) & cut two records (Back to Rome & Lovers Quarrel).  

John has been a strong support of local sports teams and education of our Bridgeport youth. He is a dedicated supporter of the 11th Ward Democratic Organization, member of the ONIAC, Hamburg Club and the South Loop Chamber of Commerce