Alan Stein, Founder of Famous Uncle Al's Hot Dogs and Fries, Dies at 87

Alan Stein, the founder of Famous Uncle Al's Hot Dogs and Fries, died on January 11, 2025, at the age of 87. He was known across Hampton Roads as "Uncle Al."

Stein is survived by a sister, a son, a daughter, several grandchildren, a great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. His family will hold a celebration of his life on January 28 at 4 p.m. at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments. Online condolences can be left for the family on the funeral home's website.

Born in New York on February 7, 1937, Stein led a varied life before settling in Virginia. He served in the U.S. Army, bowled professionally, managed a bowling alley and owned a sporting-goods store. Those who knew him described him as humorous, exciting and personable.

In 1974, Stein moved with his family to Virginia Beach, where he worked as a site superintendent for Sir Galahad Homes.

Outside of work, he was a fierce competitor on the racquetball court. He was a regular at the old Tidewater Racquet Club and enjoyed challenging other players. He also played slow-pitch softball and poker with friends.

Stein eventually moved into the restaurant business, opening Steins Delicatessen as his first venture. It was not his only one; he later started Al's Fast Foods on Atlantic Avenue.

The nickname that would define his career came at his niece's wedding reception. From then on, he was known as "Uncle Al."

The name proved to be a marketing asset. His next restaurant, Famous Uncle Al's Hot Dogs and Fries, grew very popular in Hampton Roads and introduced the area to New York-style Boar's Head hot dogs.

Numerous Famous Uncle Al's locations remain in operation around Hampton Roads, and Stein was involved in the opening of each of them.