Hot dog! New stand opens

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. VERMILION — Sailor's Landing Hotdog Stand has quickly become a small-town favorite for locals looking for a casual bite and friendly conversation. Located at 5693 Liberty Ave. (U.S. 6) in downtown Vermilion across from Ritter Public Library, it's run by spouses Billy and Emily Levi, who describe it as both a "bucket list" dream and a labor of love. "I've always wanted to have a hot dog stand," Billy said. "I've stopped at them everywhere I've traveled, and now we finally have one here in Vermilion." Their menu is all about quality. Sailor's Landing serves all-beef jumbo dogs, standard beef-pork dogs and plant-based vegan options — all grilled on potato buns with fresh toppings. Customers can find specialties like: • The Admiral pulled-pork sandwich • Vermilion Fries, topped with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon • Man Overboard, a mac-and-cheese dog piled high with flavor It's not just the food that sets the place apart. Sailor's Landing is a dog-friendly spot where four-legged guests are treated like family. Customers can bring their dogs to sit outside where the staff keeps tennis balls and water bowls ready. "We want everyone to feel welcome," Emily said. "Families, kids and pets: This is the kind of place where people can just relax." The stand is seasonal with plans to stay open through early December, adjusting hours as daylight fades. Billy and Emily are considering adding dessert options next season, such as custard, and have also talked about hosting live bands each week to bring even more community energy to the corner of Liberty Avenue. Right now, Sailor's Landing keeps things old-school. There's no online ordering or app. Customers simply call ahead or stop by in person. It's part of the charm. "We wanted to focus on the product this season before adding anything new," Billy said. Sailor's Landing is also a full-service operation. Customers can place their order, find a seat at the outdoor picnic benches and have their food brought right to the table with a smile. "It's really about connecting with people," Billy said. "That's what makes it special." People can learn more by visiting Facebook and searching for "Sailor's Landing Hotdog Stand."