Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Read more
Pink’s Hot Dogs, an iconic Los Angeles institution that originated as a single pushcart over eight decades ago, is set to open its first restaurant in Japan by the end of the year.
To launch a flagship venue in Tokyo, the brand has partnered with Japanese restaurant management firm Sunpark. A specific opening date and location remain unannounced.
“Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of welcoming so many guests from Japan to Pink’s in Los Angeles, and it has always meant a great deal to our family to see the enthusiasm and affection they have for Pink’s,” Pink’s Hot Dogs co-owner Richard Pink told City News Service. “Now, we have the opportunity to bring a piece of that Los Angeles tradition to Japan. We can’t wait to welcome guests in Tokyo and share the Pink’s experience, our history, and our hospitality with a whole new community.”
Pink’s is known for oversized hot dogs featuring toppings including chili, cheese, bacon, jalapeños and onion rings (Frederic J. Brown/ AFP via Getty Images)
“Our Japanese partner, Sunpark, operates more than 100 restaurants throughout Japan and brings extensive experience in restaurant operations. We are confident in Sunpark’s ability to maintain the high standards of food quality, atmosphere, and service that have defined Pink’s for generations,” the company said.
The Tokyo restaurant is expected to offer about 15 varieties of hot dogs, along with hamburgers, side dishes, desserts and drinks. Japan-exclusive items tailored to local tastes are also planned.
Pink’s is known for oversized hot dogs featuring toppings including chili, cheese, bacon, jalapeños and onion rings.
The company and Sunpark plan to expand beyond the Tokyo location.
Pink’s traces its history to 1939, when Paul and Betty Pink began selling hot dogs from a pushcart they purchased for $50 near the corner of La Brea and Melrose avenues.
The couple opened a permanent location on La Brea Avenue in 1946. The restaurant became known for its celebrity clientele and long lines and developed into a Los Angeles landmark.
Pink’s remains family-operated and has expanded beyond its original Los Angeles location, with restaurants elsewhere in Southern California and Nevada.
The planned Tokyo restaurant follows another Southland food institution into Japan. Randy’s Donuts opened its first Japanese location in Tokyo in 2025.