New Way Lunch: A Glens Falls Legacy & 100+ Years of the Dirt Dog
Some call them hot dogs from New Way Lunch, others call them "Dirt Dogs" from Dirty John’s. No matter the name, the experience is unmistakable: a grilled frankfurter nestled in a steamed bun, topped with yellow mustard, finely diced onions, and a secret-recipe meat sauce that has remained unchanged for over a century. Here in the Glens Falls region, these world-famous dogs have been a local staple since 1919.
The Man and the Nicknames
While "New Way Lunch" is the official name on the marquee, the eatery has accumulated a colorful list of nicknames over the generations. The original owner, John Floro, operated the business for over 20 years, during which time locals affectionately called the spot "John the Hot Dogs" or "Hot Dog John’s."
Following John’s passing in 1950, the nicknames evolved alongside the local culture. By the 1960s, "Dirty John’s" and their legendary "Dirt Dogs" became the shorthand for the business—a name that stuck and is still used by many today. Whether you call it Dirty John’s or New Way, you’re part of a long-standing Adirondack tradition.
From Brooklyn to South Street
The story began in 1916 when John Floro emigrated from Greece to New York City. After a brief stint running a fruit stand in Brooklyn, John sought a new path for his growing family. In August 1919, he arrived in Glens Falls and took ownership of New Way Lunch at 54 South Street.
Throughout the 1920s and 40s, New Way flourished as a true family affair. John and his wife Mary raised five daughters—Constance, Margaret, Diamond, Angela, and Themetria—all while running a business that was open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It became the reliable heart of the community, famously closing only once in its early history to honor the funeral of Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Passing the Tongs
When John Floro passed away in 1950, leadership stayed in the family, passing to his son-in-law, George Kokoletsos. George steered the ship until his retirement in 1972. In the late 70s, the third generation took the helm when Peter Gazetos, John Floro’s grandson, joined the business. By 1990, Peter had become the owner, carrying the Floro legacy into a new era of growth.
Evolution and Modern Expansion
To meet the demands of a new century, Peter and his wife Susan modernized the family business while preserving its soul. In 1998, they expanded beyond downtown Glens Falls to open a second location in Queensbury, featuring a convenient drive-through.
In 2006, the original Glens Falls operation made a move from its historic home at 54 South Street to its current, larger facility at 21 South Street. This transition allowed the family to offer off-street parking and an expanded menu while staying true to the South Street roots where it all began.
Today, New Way Lunch remains a family-operated powerhouse with locations serving the greater Glens Falls and Queensbury area. Peter, Susan, and their children continue to serve the community with the same dedication John Floro showed back in 1919, ensuring that the legendary "Dirt Dog" remains a centerpiece of the North Country’s culinary map.
Discover more unique historic spots in Glens Falls >>
<< Back to Glens Falls Hotspots
