NYC’s widely popular hot dog joint, Papaya King, returned this weekend after being closed for more than a year due to conflicts with the business and the landlord of its previous locations.
Initially opened in 1932, the restaurant closed its original location on 86th Street and Third Avenue back in April 2023 after 90 years of business. The original building was first sold to developer Extell in 2021 for $21 million, and then was sold again to ZD Jasper Realty for $24 million, which reportedly wanted to replace the business with a luxury tower.
The spot was then set to reopen at its second location across the street at 1535 Third Avenue, between 86th and 87th Streets, but it remained closed after the landlord wouldn’t allow Papaya King to install a kitchen hood, according to a report by Eater. This also led to the landlord suing Papaya King’s owner, Sajid “Sid” Sohail, arguing he breached its contract by violating the terms of its lease, though this lawsuit was eventually dropped.
Following this series of numerous obstacles, the beloved hot dog spot made a triumphant return on Saturday, opening the doors of its new location on the Upper East Side near the cupcake stand Baked by Melissa on 206 East 86th Street. Now, people can once again enjoy Papaya King’s classic dog with sauerkraut and onions while also indulging in one of its fresh tropical drinks such as Coconut Champagne or Strawberry Fields.
“I was there today. I can confirm that they are slinging dogs.” Andrew Fine, a member of the E86th Street Association, wrote in a statement to PIX11 News. “[I’m] Happy that Papaya King is back. They have been part of the fabric of East 86th and New York for over 90 years. It felt like they left a void when they closed. So glad to have them back-slinging dogs on East 86th!”
