A Chicago-area hot dog stand has been honored as the state's first ever "Delicious Destination" by the Illinois Office of Tourism.
Gov. Pat Quinn bestowed the award upon Gene & Jude's Red Hot Stand at a ceremony at the River Grove stand on Thursday. The restaurant has been in business since 1946.
The award celebrates local food establishments that are stops for both visitors and locals, and aims to highlight the role of Illinois restaurants in the economy.
Thursday also marked the opening of the nominating process for more restaurants to be deemed a "Delicious Destination." To be considered, restaurants must be nominated by a local Convention & Visitors Bureau, community member or an "Enjoy Illinois" social media fan.
Quinn called the stand "a legend" and admitted made a recent stop there on a recent Saturday night.
The governor says Illinois knows its hot dogs, and noted he relishes his topped only with mustard.
