Sullivan's Castle Island: From MA Hot Dog Stand To 'American Classic'

BOSTON, MA ? Bostonians cherish the day that Sullivan's Castle Island ? or, if you're local, Sully's ? opens for the season.

What started as a hot dog stand in 1951 became a generational family business and, today, garnered the official tagline of an American classic from the James Beard Foundation.

Sully's is one of six recipients of the 2025 America's Classics Award, a category of the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards.

Dan Sullivan, Sr. created the spot as a hot dog stand in 1951. It's been operated by the family ever since, passing through four generations.

The restaurant has a seasonal spot on Castle Island with a year-round outpost in suburban Hanover.

Known for their cheesy double smash burgers, hot dogs, crinkle cut fries, lobster rolls and fresh seafood, Sully's still runs the season spot on Castle Island and has expanded with a year-round restaurant in Hanover.

"We are truly humbled and grateful for this recognition," management said on social media. "This honor isn?t just for us?it?s for all of New England and every customer who has made Sullivan?s a part of their story."

That story continues this weekend, as the Castle Island location opens on Saturday.