From Hot Dogs to Hearts: Nicky V's Big Year in 2025

A Leap of Faith

Nick Versetto, a former financial advisor, took a bold step seven years ago and opened Nicky V's, a hot dog and burger joint. Little did he know, his small venture would grow exponentially. In 2025, he and his wife Krystyna opened four new locations in just a few months. Three are standalone buildings, and three are nestled inside Gas 'N Wash fuel stations. Each location required immense hard work and unwavering belief in the business.

Roots and Inspiration

Versetto grew up on the South Side of Chicago and attended Brother Rice High School. He fondly remembers visiting local diners like Mickey's and Parisi's. Inspired by these establishments, he wanted to create a similar place for kids—a fun, non-chain restaurant.

Nicky V's began in Oak Forest in 2019 and has since expanded to Mt. Greenwood, Merrionette Park, Bedford Park, New Lenox, and Lemont. The business has also ventured into catering services and food trucks.

The Menu: A Taste of Chicago

The menu at Nicky V's features classic items like burgers, hot dogs, and Polish sausage, along with Chicago-style specialties like the "mother-in-law" (a tamale in a bun) and a puff burger. A standout item is the Southside Special, a tray packed with Italian beef, hot dog, Maxwell Street Polish, gyro pita, tamale, pizza puff, and a large fry.

Versetto takes pride in their homemade Italian beef, setting it apart from chain restaurant offerings.

Balancing Business and Family

As a father of five, Versetto finds it challenging to balance his business and family life. He and his wife have been managing everything but have recently started hiring staff. Despite his entrepreneurial drive, he emphasizes that parenting comes first.

Community Involvement

Versetto has been actively involved in his communities. He met Kurt DeGroot, the founder of Project Fire Buddies, when the organization was just starting. Nicky V's has been a major supporter, donating food trucks and participating in events.

Danielle Dorsey, whose daughter Isla is a Fire Buddy, has witnessed Versetto's generosity firsthand. He has brought dinners to the hospital, joined them for lunch, and even provides hot dogs for Isla's annual lemonade stand for charity.