Turlock’s newest fast food restaurant may have opened to the public over a month ago, but the grills are heating up at Wienerschnitzel in preparation for the hot dog headquarters’ grand opening celebration this weekend.

Wienerschnitzel is the world’s largest hot dog chain and with the opening of Turlock’s location, there are now 230 restaurants throughout California. Franchisees Sahira and Farouk Diab of Sacramento opened the new location at 2675 Countryside Drive at Monte Vista Crossings, marking the start of a flurry of new developments that will also soon include a Farmer Boys Burgers and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen.

To celebrate its arrival to town, Wienerschnitzel will host a grand opening party from this Saturday, Nov. 10, complete with prizes and a live disc jockey from KAT Country 103. During the all-day celebration, customers can also enjoy chili dogs and small Tastee Freez soft serve cones for just 99 cents each.

Diab, a long-time franchisee who also owns restaurants in Modesto, Sacramento, Stockton and Las Vegas, has been part of the Wienerschnitzel family for over 40 years and plans to open more restaurants in the future. He started as a janitor when he was 18 years old and worked his way up to eventually be given the opportunity to become a franchisee.

“Farouk and his family have proven they are successful franchisees and this location will be no different,” said Ted Milburn, director of franchise development for Wienerschnitzel. “As a veteran of Wienerschnitzel and our biggest franchisee, they understand the brand and know a great business opportunity when they see one.”

“This location has been in the making for over five years,” said Farouk Diab. “The Turlock community wanted a Wienerschnitzel in their town, so I began looking for a location to make this a reality. We found the best sight and we’re thrilled we hired 42 employees from the area and are ready to serve the world’s best hot dogs for all of our fans to enjoy.”