New Bedford’s Scott Pemberton Makes Dream of a Gourmet Hot Dog Shop a Reality

In a dog-eat-dog world, it's rejuvenating to see people willing to open their own mom-and-pop business. Scott Pemberton just started a gourmet hot dog specialty shop called Oh My Dawg in New Bedford's North End, on Acushnet Avenue across from the Wilks Library in the former E-Z Rent-a-Car location.

Known throughout the community as a candidate for the New Bedford City Council, and for being one of the committee members of this year's Joe Jesus' 50s Night, Pemberton has held a wish for the past 10 years that has finally become a reality.

"All my life, I've only worked for national food franchises. It's been my dream someday to open my own gourmet hot dog stand," he said. "Well, that someday is here for me!"

Get our free mobile app

The humble hot dog has been exalted to new heights.

"I have only compliments for the hot dog stands around here, like Gary's Best, but I'm going to make Oh My Dawg unlike anything in New Bedford," Pemberton said.

It's a family business, with Pemberton's wife, sister and mother lending a hand.

"My job is to clean, clean, clean. I'm a stickler for cleanliness," said his mother, Vivian Pemberton.

Looking out the storefront window, Pemberton said this is very soft opening "to make sure everything works well."

He said he plans on installing revolving stools. There's an empty space where the sign will eventually go on the building's exterior because the sign is still in transit.

"The name 'Oh My Dawg' is a direct result of how delicious these gourmet dogs are. I want only the best for my customers," Pemberton said. "I only use Kayem 100 percent beef hot dogs, no fillers or by-products, that are grilled, not steamed."

The gourmet hot dogs are reasonably priced, ranging from $2.50 for dogs like the Amherst (bleu cheese, hot sauce and celery salt) to $4 for dogs such as the Breakfast dog (topped with hash browns, a sunny side egg and ketchup).

Christine Lewis, a local educator, and co-worker Lisa Cabral were captivated by all the gourmet dog toppings. Susan Moura walked in and before long decided on a Greek Salad Gourmet Dawg.