Ever wonder what Wienerschnitzel really is...?

Wienerschnitzel, as we all know it, is an American fast-food chain founded in 1961 as "Der Wienerschnitzel" that specializes in HOT DOGS of all things. In fact, the chain's advertising mascot is a hot dog that runs from people who want to eat him.

The first Wienerschnitzel was opened by John Galardi in 1961 , at a hot dog stand along Pacific Coast Highway east of Figueroa Street in the Los Angeles community of Wilmington . This location is still in operation as of today.

It is also interesting to note that a handful of Wienerschnitzels were converted to Original Hamburger Stand restaurants in the Denver area and several other Western cities in the late 1980s by the founder, John Galardi. Wienerschnitzels now sell Tastee-Freez ice cream, a brand also owned by Galardi.

BUT...

Strictly put, "Wienerschnitzel" might also be seen as incorrect, as the term is really a two-word expression in German. Thus, "Das Wiener Schnitzel" would have been correct usage, although German-speakers do sometimes combine Wiener and Schnitzel into one word. In addition to these linguistic flaws, Wiener Schnitzel actually means "breaded veal cutlet, Vienna style", which the restaurant chain does not sell. The name probably came from a mistaken belief that Wiener Schnitzel meant Wiener sausage.

For the traditional Wiener Schnitzel, the Viennese normally use veal, and lard to fry it. But you can also use pork, chicken or turkey and oil to fry it. It will taste just as delicious either way!