Main Street Hanover Remembers Beloved Community Member James A. Plakas, Owner of Texas Hot Weiner Lunch
Hanover, PA – Main Street Hanover joins the Hanover community in mourning the loss of James A. Plakas, a beloved local business owner, family man, and longtime member of the Hanover community, who passed away on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the age of 91.
For generations of Hanover residents, James was more than the familiar face behind the counter at Texas Hot Weiner Lunch. He was a fixture of downtown Hanover and an important part of the community’s history. Born on June 21, 1935, in Neohorion Nafpaktias, Greece, James immigrated to the United States in 1956 with hopes of building a better life for his family. He did just that, establishing a legacy that would span generations.
In 1961, James became the owner and operator of Texas Hot Weiner Lunch at 38 Carlisle Street in downtown Hanover. For 65 years, he dedicated himself to the business, welcoming customers, serving generations of families, and becoming a familiar and cherished presence in the downtown business district. His commitment to his business and community helped make Texas Hot Weiner Lunch a Hanover landmark.
James’s grandson, Yianni Barakos, shared a heartfelt tribute reflecting on the profound influence his grandfather had on his life and career. He recalled conversations with James about growing up in Greece, where people grew, raised, and made what they needed. One of those conversations inspired an eleven-year-old Yianni and eventually led to the creation of Mason Dixon Distillery in Gettysburg. As Yianni shared, there is a direct connection between those early conversations with his grandfather and the life and business he has built today.
James’s son, Tony Plakas, also shared the family’s gratitude for the community’s support, explaining that Hanover and its customers meant the world to his father. He encouraged everyone to hold their families close and savor the moments they are blessed to share.
Beyond his business, James’s greatest pride was his family. He shared 67 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Celia, and was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family, including his children, eleven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, was at the center of his life.
“Main Street Hanover extends its heartfelt condolences to the Plakas family, the Texas Hot Weiner Lunch team, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing James. For 65 years, James helped shape the character of downtown Hanover through his dedication, hard work, and commitment to serving this community. His legacy lives on not only through the business he built, but through the countless memories shared by the generations of customers who walked through its doors. He will be deeply missed.”
As the community remembers James, residents are encouraged to stop by Texas Hot Weiner Lunch, located at 38 Carlisle Street in downtown Hanover, in the coming weeks. Whether stopping in for a familiar favorite, sharing a meal with family, or simply taking a moment to remember James, supporting the business is a meaningful way to celebrate the legacy he built over more than six decades.
Texas Hot Weiner Lunch Hours:
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Monday: Closed
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Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
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Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
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Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
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Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
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Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
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Sunday: Closed
Contributions may be made in James’s memory to Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 2500 Pine Grove Road, York, PA 17403.
Main Street Hanover is grateful for the generations of memories James helped create in our downtown and the lasting impact he leaves on the community he called home. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Plakas family during this difficult time.
Main Street Hanover
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Moriah Tyler Executive Director
- November 04, 2026
- (717) 637-6130
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