Sam's Hot Dog Stand has closed its Lexington Green Circle location after nearly four years in business, owner Peggy Wadkins confirmed. The franchise, known for its chili sauce and affordable prices, shut down Friday, Feb. 13, becoming the second Lexington restaurant to close recently following Joella's Hot Chicken.

Wadkins attributed the closure to ongoing disputes with building owner Mariana Nikolova and her husband, landlord Michael Nicholas. She claimed they failed to maintain the building and parking lot, causing business loss, while dramatically increasing rent that became unsustainable for the operation.

The closure comes despite Sam's Hot Dog Stand maintaining more than 45 locations across four states. Two other Lexington franchises remain operational at 105 N. Limestone and 4300 Winchester Rd., and Wadkins said she is actively seeking a new location for her business. The building's other occupant, Bluegrass Hemp Oil, continues to operate normally.