In celebration of Wienerschnitzel’s 53rd Anniversary, the hot dog went back to where it all began in 1961 and made a few retro updates to the very first “Der Wienerschnitzel” location in Wilmington, California. Updates include large photos from Wienerschnitzel beginnings placed along the building as well as a plaque declaring the location a historic landmark by the city of Los Angeles, making it the second fast-food establishment in the city’s history to receive the honor. The landmark dedication ceremony will take place on Tuesday, September 16, at 2 p.m. with Los Angeles Councilman Joe Buscaino, members of the Galardi family, and Wienerschnitzel corporate executives in attendance.

J.R. Galardi, 25, the son of late founder, John Galardi, and CEO, Cindy Galardi Culpepper, has begun working full time at corporate headquarters learning the ins and outs of the business. Growing up with Wienerschnitzel, J.R. is motivated by his father’s entrepreneurial spirit and has always aspired to be a part of the family business. Together, with Wienerschnitzel’s executive team, they are focused on growing the company.

“Our first location is very sentimental as it represents where we came from, and the 53 years of hard work that have enabled the brand to thrive and become the household name that it is today,” says Cindy Galardi Culpepper, CEO of Galardi Group Inc. “Wienerschnitzel will always be a family business, and I am proud that J.R. is passionate about continuing the legacy.”

The Wilmington restaurant is a 600 square foot structure, with Wienerschnitzel’s signature drive thru built smack dab in the middle of the building, and is a prime example of an early drive-thru and walk-up food window associated with the Los Angeles car culture in the ‘60s.