Former Ted's executive branches out

GRAND ISLAND, N.Y. (WIVB) - A split in a long-standing family business could cause confusion for anyone who wants a classic summertime meal.

It's a family mystery no one wants to discuss: the breakup of the Liaros family, forever linked to the local chain of Ted's Jumbo Red Hots. Now there's Ted's and Theodore's.

If something looks familiar about the food, the menu, and especially the charcoal grill at Theodore's on Grand Island, even some of the faces behind the counter, there is, starting with owner Theodore "Teddy" Liaros.

Teddy's grandfather was Theodore Spiro Liaros, founder of Ted's Hot Dogs, a western New York institution since 1927 with six stores in Greater Buffalo. Ted himself grew up in the family business until he was fired, last year. Theodore's has no link to Ted's other than Liaros owning shares in both companies.

Liaros said, "And people are just so happy to have another alternative here as far as a place to eat, and a place to take the family, and I think it is a win-win because I think we provide a good environment for the families."

Customers can appreciate getting good hot dogs without having to leave the island. Both factions of the family say the break-up has been excruciating, so hard for officials at Ted's, they declined an on-camera interview, preferring instead to send us a written statement.

The Ted's Liaros statement reads in part, :some executive level changes were made to ensure the business would remain strong, thriving, and family owned for generations to come."

>> Read the full statement from Ted's here

Western New Yorkers will continue to enjoy the delicious food and outstanding service that has made Ted's a beloved institution. Theodore's is presenting a new challenge for Liaros the grandson, once anonymous in the office, now the face of his new business.

"It is kind of a new experience for me. So I am getting used to it, but I have been enjoying it," said Liaros.

Ted's Hot Dogs also sent their best wishes to Theodore's. Theodore's is planning a second store in Amherst, later this summer.