Gone In A ‘Snap’ – Legendary Colorado Lunch Spot To Close Oct 19

If you've never heard the name Steve Ballas, you're not alone. But odds are if you're a fan of true Americana food - and/or if you've ever heard of Blinky the Clown - you probably indirectly have heard about some of Steve's legacy.

Just under 20 years ago, he saw a guy selling hot dogs outside of his doctor's office and the idea struck: bring true east-coast style hot dogs to Denver. And he did just that.

Steve's Snappin' Dogs quickly became a staple on Colfax in Denver, later adding a second location on Concourse B at Denver International Airport. He also launched Steve's Snappin' Ale, available at a handful of beer and liquor stores across the Denver Metro Area.

Steve is now 70, and his wife Linda is 77. Both have battled cancer, Steve beating his and Linda in the midst of the battle as this is written. Linda, by the way, is the daughter of a famous Denver TV personality named Russell Scott. If you've never heard of Scott, maybe you know him as "Blinky the Clown," who passed away in 2012. Blinky lit up TV's all across Colorado for more than 40 years as the host of "Blinky's Fun Club."

Steve's Snappin' Dogs is set to shut down for good on October 19, as Steve says it's bittersweet, but he's ready to retire. Relaxation is on the agenda, as is looking after his wife as she battles cancer.

The restaurant is being taken over by a barbecue place, but Steve will always nearby ready to put his hot dog hat on again, whenever anyone wants.