You have heard the name and may have visited a time or two (or countless times, if you are like me), but do you understand just how legendary the delicious Sam’s No. 3 is? Confession, I didn’t know until recently, but now that I do, it makes an already stellar place even more extraordinary. Here is the story of one of Colorado’s favorite breakfast joints, which has been in the same family since 1927:
Located in 3 busy Denver neighborhoods, Sam's No. 3 is instantly recognizable to most Coloradans, but it's what you can't see that makes this Centennial State favorite even more special.
First opened in 1927, Sam's No. 3 was started by Sam Armatas, a Greek immigrant who started 5 Coney Island-inspired hot dog stands around the Mile High City, all of which were named Sams. No. 1 through No. 5.
While most of Sam's locations faltered, No. 3 survived, and by the 1960s, Sam's son, Spero, purchased Sam's No. 3 (located at 1500 Curtis St. in Denver), expanding it even more and bringing in other owners and managers to oversee the new restaurants.
It was business as usual for Spero for the next few decades until 1998 when his sons (Spero, Patrick, and Alex) formed a partnership and created the current Sam's that everyone has come to know and love.
When you visit Sam's No. 3 today, you will find that the historic eatery still serves its legendary Coney Dogs, plus all of your breakfast favorites, Greek fare, sandwiches and burgers, soup and salad, Mexican food, and more.