The loss of Deo's Sandwich Shop in September had Henderson Center regulars collectively crumpling and throwing napkins in despair for the 47-year-old establishment. But what could replace it in such a tiny space? Chicago Dog House, formerly of Redwood Acres, has brought its Windy City cart fare to the spot, opening on the first of the year. 
Carrie Nuse, who owns the cart-turned-shop with her husband, Todd Nuse, says, “It was amazing and busier than expected — the line was all the way down the block all day.” The couple had been serving dogs at Dave's Place in September, allowing the bar to operate under COVID-19 regulations. They'd been on the hunt for a food truck when they heard about Deo's coming up for sale and jumped on it. Now Chicago Dog House is serving takeout dogs and sandwiches Tuesday through Saturday from 11:11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Once restrictions are lifted and Dave's Place is allowed to open again, the plan is to reopen the pass-through window that once allowed customers at the bar to order sandwiches from Deo's. For authenticity's sake, the franks and relish hail from Chicago, but Carrie says, “We’re also trying to incorporate local people's stuff.”

For the moment, that includes Humboldt Hot Sauce, salads from Manzanilla across the street, bread from Fat Cat Bakery and Los Bagels' slugs for bagel dogs.

“We’re all trying to help each other out,” she says.