Joey Fatone, former member of the pop sensation *NSYNC, has officially launched his new venture, Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice, at Universal CityWalk in Florida’s Universal Orlando Resort. The opening event took place on September 19 and marks an exciting new chapter for the 49-year-old entertainer, alongside his manager and business partner, Joe Mulvihill, who is 56.
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The establishment is inspired by Fatone’s own Brooklyn roots, reflecting a blend of nostalgia and culinary experience gained from his travels. “We talked about Universal a lot,” Fatone shared. “We know everyone here, and many of the people we once worked with are now part of the team running the company. It creates a friendly, family-like environment.” Both Fatone and Mulvihill have ties to the region, having attended Dr. Phillips High School, located right across the street from the theme park, where they participated in various productions, including Beetlejuice’s Rock and Roll Graveyard Revue.
One notable aspect of the menu includes a hot dog inspired by singer Luis Fonsi, who is also a former schoolmate of Fatone’s. The dish, dubbed “El Fonsi,” features a unique mix of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, sofrito, onion jam, mayo-ketchup, and potato sticks, all on a brioche bun. Fatone expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that Fonsi was supportive of the idea and excited about the tribute.
The menu at Fat One’s is diverse, showcasing hot dogs with globetrotting flavours. Among the standout items is the Dirty K-Pop Dog, infused with Korean elements such as kimchi slaw, gochujang mayo, scallions, and crispy onions. The pièce de résistance is The Fat One, a hefty footlong adorned with roasted pork, pepperoni, chilli beans, and cheese sauce, making it a meal designed for those who need to refuel while enjoying the park.
Fatone’s vision for Fat One’s was originally birthed from an idea to franchise a hot dog truck he saw at the Lollapalooza festival in Chicago. However, Mulvihill encouraged him to develop the concept further, leading to the establishment’s unique identity. “It’s about bringing a taste of my childhood to Florida, but with a twist,” Fatone explained, noting the special connection he hopes to create with customers.
In addition to gourmet hot dogs, the venue also offers six classic flavours of Italian ice, designed as a tribute to Fatone’s early years in New York. He aims to recreate the nostalgic feeling of indulging in frozen treats in old-school paper cups, promising a hands-on experience that evokes a sense of fun and messiness.
For Fatone and Mulvihill, this launch is merely the beginning of Fat One’s journey. Fatone expressed a belief that great ideas require patience and timing to develop. “When you know you have something good in your heart, you must continue to push forward,” he shared. Their philosophy underscores the importance of enjoying the process of building the brand while being patient and strategic about future expansions.
“We’re thrilled with how far we’ve come but understand that it’s just the start,” Mulvihill added, emphasising the importance of working with the right people and enjoying the journey. The duo aims to create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects both Fatone’s personal brand and his culinary heritage.
With the grand opening now behind them, Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice stands ready to serve visitors at Universal Orlando Resort, combining delightful flavours with heartfelt memories. For fans of Fatone and adventure seekers alike, this new eatery offers a refreshing taste of nostalgia and a chance to relish in the joy of enjoying great food at a beloved theme park.