National Coney Island Celebrates Anniversary With Chili Dogs For 50 Cents On Tuesday

ROSEVILLE (WWJ) - Order up!

National Coney Island is celebrating its 50th anniversary by offering 50 cent coney dogs for one day only -- Tuesday, July 14 beginning at 7 a.m.

The chain, which James Giftos started in 1965 at the Macomb Mall in Roseville, has grown to 900 employees working at 20 locations across metro Detroit over the past five decades.

"When my father opened the first National Coney Island in 1965, I don't think he imagined the brand identity that would be built over the next 50 years," said Tom Giftos, president of National Coney Island, said in a release. "Our success is a true testament to the support of the communities in which we operate."

A native of Kyparrissia, Greece, James Giftos opened the original National Coney Island after becoming a partner of the National Chili Company. With a very limited menu hand-painted on wooden menu boards, NCI quickly became a destination for shoppers. The restaurant was so popular, Giftos began opening separate locations throughout the metro area.

"We are still focused on the important things that made us who we are: quality and fresh ingredients, fast and friendly service and affordability," said Tom Giftos.”

In addition to the specially priced coneys, National Coney Island will offer a limited edition drinking glass, featuring a golden version of its mascot Mr. Pop's iconic mustache for $3.99 starting July 17.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the commemorative glass will benefit the non-profit organization, Wigs 4 Kids, which provides wigs at no cost for children who have lost their hair from various illnesses such as cancer, alopecia, trichotillomania, as well as burn victims.