Pokey | Portillo's

Meet Pokey

The Spirit of Portillo's

animated image of Pokey wagging their tail

Great to meet you, Pokey! At Portillo's, we have a rich history filled with delicious food, lifelong memories, and a special dachshund who started it all. Meet Pokey, our beloved mascot and the inspiration behind our iconic logo.

The tale of pokey

It all began with our Founder, Dick Portillo

Our story begins with our founder Dick Portillo, and his playful dachshund, Pokey. One sunny afternoon, as Pokey wagged her tail and let her tongue hang out in pure joy, Dick had a revelation.

He saw in Pokey's spirited demeanor the perfect embodiment of the Portillo's brand. With a pencil and a spark of creativity, he sketched an illustration of Pokey and added the name "Portillo's" above it. And just like that, our famous Weiner dog logo was born.

Why Pokey Matters

Pokey is more than just a logo; she symbolizes the warmth, friendliness, and passion that we pour into every meal we serve. Her cheerful expression and lively energy remind us of our commitment to providing a fun, energetic dining experience for every team member and guest.

A Nod to Our Roots

At Portillo's, we never forget where we came from. Pokey’s story is a testament to the simple, heartfelt moments that inspire greatness. Every time you see our logo, we hope it brings a smile to your face and a reminder of the joy and authenticity that Pokey brought to our founder and continues to bring to all of us.

Come and experience the magic of Portillo's, where tradition meets taste, and Pokey's playful spirit lives on in every bite.