World's Largest Brat Fest

Calling all bratwurst enthusiasts.

If you are a fan of bratwurst, you probably already have May 27-30 date circled on your calendar.

Those four special days coming up in May is when the Madison,WI plays host to the World's Largest Brat Fest.

The 2010 version of this festival saw 209,376 bratwursts consumed. And since the NFL players have nothing better to do than argue and cry currently, perhaps some of the Green Bay Packers will venture to the festival to help eat a brat.

Festivities begin at 6:00 a.m. May 27, which is also Take Your Brat to Work Day.

If you need Memorial Day plans, head to Dairyland and grab some brats. Don't forget to tell us about it either.

Hot Dog of the Week: Johnny's Red Hots

What do you get when combine 21st century technology and a delicious hot dog?

Answer: Johnny's Red Hots of Naperville, IL.

Come in to enjoy a delicious Chicago dog but bring your laptop for free wireless. Surfing the web and munching on a dog, not your thing? Then cozy up to the pair of 50" flat screen TV's and watch whatever is on the tube.

Moving from Cicero, Italy 22 years ago, Johnny's has the hot dog down pat.

Next time you are in beautiful Naperville, stop in and enjoy a hot dog. Oh, and bring your computer to send us an e-mail to let us know you dined!

Hot Dog of the Week: Dog Almighty

Good hot dogs will win awards. Awards for best tasting, best chili, tasters choice, etc.

But to be a good hot dog place, you will win awards many years in a row in a variety of categories.

Well Dog Almighty out of Austin, TX has been winning hot dog awards yearly since 2005.

Priding themselves on their ingredients and how ANYTHING on the menu can be made vegetarian, they have quite the array of toppings.

Eat a traditional dog, or a version slanted to something you have had before. Enjoy the fried potatoes done a variety ways deep in the heart of Texas' capital city.

10 Cent Hot Dogs

We have all seen the dollar stores across America.

You know, where you can load up with bottom of the line junk and pay under a buck a piece for anything.

Well the West Michigan Whitecaps, which is a minor league baseball team just North of Grand Rapids, is sponsoring 10 cent hot dog day.

10 cents each for a tasty hot dog.

You can't even a piece of crap at the dollar store for that.

Click HERE to read the article, courtesy of mlive.com then get out to 5/3 Ballpark on the day and bring a dime for each hot dog you want to buy.

Hot Dog of the Week: Coney Island Lunch

The Midwest has notoriously bastardized the term 'coney'.

Coney, in the Great Lakes region, tells more about the kind of restaurant instead of a term for our beloved hot dog.

Well at Coney Island Lunch in Scranton, PA they have been cooking coney dogs for over 80 years. A hot dog that is sliced down the middle and served on a locally made roll and served with a chili sauce is truly a coney dog.

Out of all of the dog shops we have reviewed, this shop has hands down the most detailed history and dozens upon dozens of pictures that catalog it's past.

Check out why people have kept Coney Island in business as the longest running restaurant in town.

Hot Dog of the Week: Icelandic Sensation

Hot dog joints will rave or say they have "the best this" or "the best that". A committee voted that blankedy-blank is the top choice.

Well, we have all been suckered into those magical words "world's greatest".

Huffingtonpost.com claims that the world's best hot dog may come from Iceland of all places.

Don't care to visit the Northern country? Well the follow the recipe at the bottom of the page and try it yourself.

Click HERE to read the story courtesy of huffingtonpost.com

Only Kosher Hot Dogs?

We love baseball here at dogs on the road.

In fact, we love hearing about hot dogs in baseball news.

So when the MLB franchise Minnesota Twins announced that they will be changing their menu of hot dogs, it caught our attention.

Now at Target Field, home of the Twins, Hebrew National hot dogs will be served.

Click HERE to read the news article courtesy of the Israeli National News service

Hot Dog of the Week: City Hot Dogs

In the movie Forrest Gump, Bubba tells Forrest how many ways his family makes shrimp.

Well at City Hot Dogs in Charlotte, NC you can choose the way you want your dogs prepared. You can get them chargrilled, deep fried, skinless, incinerated or kosher. Choose your buns steamed or toasted as well to wrap around your hot dog.

An all beef hot dog not quite hitting your taste pallet? Try a sausage dog or a rueben dog made just the way the sandwich bearing the same name is made.

One of the ways that the Carolina's serve hot dogs are by adding cole slaw atop a dog. One option you will not see served on a dog is ketchup. If you want ketchup on your dog, you must go to the condiment bar and put it on yourself.

So when in the queen city, simply look for the simplistic name. You know, the place in the city that serves hot dogs.

Hot Dog of the Week: Hot Doug's

We have all had that interesting hot dog. You know, the one where you were not quite sure what was in it and it didn't taste quite right.

Well at Hot Doug's it may not be the traditional hot dog, but it does taste right.

Hot Doug's-The Sausage Superstore and Encased Meat Emporium will serve you duck sausage, carribean goat sausage and chicken sausage just to name a few.

If you are a eater of what Doug would refer to as 'encased meat' then get off of your all beef hi-stool and try something different.

Not the end-trails that some knock off brands put as filler, but truly delicious ingredients.

While your eating something different, enjoy some of the traditional favorites as well.

All you can eat hot dogs April 15

Attention those on the East Coast.

If you like baseball, and since you are here visiting our site we know you like hot dogs, head to Trenton, NJ on April 15.

The minor league baseball team Trenton Thunder are offering all you can eat hot dogs in their game against Harrisburg.

Support hot dogs and baseball! Click here to read more. If you head to the game, let us know. We would love to see a picture or live vicariously through you.

Hot Dog of the Week: Tucky's

Question: Would you eat a dog biscuit?

No, not the kind that rover eats but a hot dog deep fried in a biscuit and stuffed with cheddar cheese.

If you would eat this, that Tucky's of Cleveland, OH would be the place for you.

With the slogan of "more than just a hot dog" this is the kind of place that Side Dish Jody would enjoy also as they serve up many non hot dog options.

They also have a hot dog challenge that you can participate in and earn a free t-shirt.

So get to Tucky's in one of there three greater Cleveland area locations

Myrtle Beach, SC

When walking on the beach, what would you take with you to munch on? Well, if you are in Myrtle Beach and this question pops into your head, vie straight for Ocean Front Grill. Snuggle up to the bar top and order the footlong chili dog and take it for a walk down the beach. The chili on top was the perfect amount and combination to quench the appetite. The white onions that are finely sliced, adorn the top and mix greatly with the chili yet are not overpowering to the dog or your breath. The all beef dog snaps when you bite into it and coming off the grill top, it’s a dark color. Whether you decide to dine in or take it with you on the beach, you get a convenient footlong dog tray. BEWARE: When ordering 'everything' on your dog, be prepared to eat this with a bib and a tarp. B+

Atmosphere- As I ordered my footlong, the TV overhead was showing a plethora of snow drowning the Midwest. As I turned my head 180 degrees I saw a picture perfect blue sky, a sandy beach, and people playing football….and that is ten feet out the door. Speaking of doors, the uniqueness of the doors here may never be duplicated. Home garage doors were open for customers to walk in and out as they please. An oceanfront hot dog establishment…WOW! A

Value- Competition drives price down and when your competition is at the other end of the block, prices better be comparable. Comparable is one thing, identical is another. $3.60 for a footlong chili dog is a very good price, especially for an oceanfront dog-establishment. B+

Side Dish Jody says… Jody was an unfortunate victim of the aforementioned Midwest snow storm, but typical bar food was available.

Hot Dog of the Week: Casey's

Orlando, FL

One of our followers was at Disney World in Orlando, FL and saw this hot dog stand.

Apparently Casey's Corner served the traditional baseball food as seen on the board above the cashier's stand.

Each of the wait staff were dressed in vintage look alike baseball apparel with aprons being chest protectors such as umpire would wear.

So here is to Casey's Corner and Disney World for starting Spring Training off right-with a baseball theme!

Jammers Chicago Style Classics

Peoria, IL

Cue the dueling banjos…while traveling to Jammers, I swear that I passed the guys from Deliverance canoeing down the river. I had heard good things about Jammers through the grapevine and decided to check it out. Boy I am glad I did. This restaurant is several hours south of Chicago, but the flavor of a Chicago dog, ne’ two Chicago dogs were evident. A Chicago dog has many extra toppings that normal dogs do not have and I forgot about the celery salt that is added. Something about celery salt, radioactive looking green colored relish, peppers and a poppy seed bun made this a good trip and not a bad Chicago dog if I do say so myself. B+

Atmosphere-Upon reaching the front door I was all smiles, and when I entered the smile grew larger. A friendly man and wife combo-team greeted me while their two children watched TV. I was gladly welcomed into this 24 seat capacity country-esque restaurant. The walls are adorned with cheap Chicago sports team’s paraphernalia, which came across tacky but a good spread of memory lane for Chicago-land. The proprietors knew each of the guests who were dining and seemed to pick stories up right where they left off before. I am a small town guy myself, so I appreciate the quaintness and friendliness of local business and repeat customers. B-

Value- A surprisingly large menu for what the establishment’s size, my two Chicago dog platter with fries came to $6.95. I also washed them down with some brewed iced tea. How did they know that was my favorite drink to wash down dogs with? I gladly pushed the cash across the counter for these dogs and would again if I visit Peoria. B+

Side Dish Jody- Side dish Jody did not put Jammers to the road test. But had she visited, she would have enjoyed the vast array of menu choices.

Hot Dog of the Week: The Bulldog

There is a difference between a hot dog place, and a place that serves hot dogs.

The Bulldog in Minneapolis, MN would be a place that serves hot dogs. Upon looking at the other food and menu though, would make you think otherwise.

Esquire magazine thought enough of them to review the restaurant, so why shouldn't we?

Since we started this blog, this is the first place I have come across on-line that serves a beer brat. Now that has to count for something.

You will also notice on the menu that they serve about 25 different kinds of cupcakes. Yes cupcakes. You know, the smaller version of a real piece of cake that serves as an optical illusion based on the size. So we end up eating twice as many of them instead of just one or two pieces of cake.

Browse the menu and prepare to let your mouth water.

America's Best Hot Dog Bracket

Side Dish Jody and I used to enjoy watching Rachel Ray shows years ago.

However, she has become way to commercialized for our taste.

Rachel has however tugged at my heart strings with a 64 team bracket (a-la the NCAA basketball tournament-esque) to figure out America's Best Hot Dog Bracket.

Find your region and vote for your favorite. Let our readers know who you voted for as well.

May the best dog joint win!

Hot Dog of the Week: Wild About Harry's

When Side Dish Jody and I look for places to review, we will almost always look at the menu beforehand. After all, she is important in reviewing the non hot dog options.

It is the non hot dog option that makes this place unique. At Wild About Harry's you can get frozen custard. Not ice cream, not shaved ice, not yogurt...frozen custard.

The hot dog options include the chihuahua dog that is topped with guacamole. This is definitely the first time I have seen guacamole as a hot dog topping.

So if you are in the Big D for the Super Bowl, or just looking for the next place to enjoy a hot dog, check out Harry's.

Hot Dog of the Week: Boz Hot Dogs

S-U-C-C-E-S-S, that's the way we spell success.

Having 16 locations throughout the Southern suburbs of Chicago and Northwest Indiana means you have success.

Boz Hot Dogs offers the traditional hot dog as well bratwurst, sausage and footlongs. Here is something that I have never seen or heard of in a restaurant, they offer Hostess cupcakes on the dessert menu.

Take a look at Boz and try one or all sixteen locations

Hot Dog of the Week: Hot Dog Diner

'Moon over Parma I'll bring my love to you tonight'...the original musical lyrics to the opening of the Drew Carey Show, circa 1995, may be the only pop culture reference to the little town just South of Cleveland.

At the Hot Dog Diner they have renamed many dogs that have been made famous in Chicago, West Virginia, North Carolina and New York. And judging by the array of hot dogs they offer, they have made a few new adaptations as well.

Their hot dogs are specially made by a butcher and they even make some of their own sauces and toppings which include cole slaw to adorn the tops of a slaw dog or hillbilly dog.

Not in the mood for a hot dog? First off shame on you, but try a fresh made hamburger or a plate of fries that are hand cut and made all day long.

Check out why the Hot Dog Diner is a very good choice to have a meal.

Hot Dog of the Week: Jack's Cosmic Dogs

For those of you who read this blog regularly, you know how my infatuation with hot dogs started.

For those of you who do not know how it started, simply read about it on the far right column of this blog.

The founder of Jack's Cosmic Dogs founded his hot dog stand on a childhood love of hot dogs as well.

A gimmick such as the space themed restaurant will get you in the door, but the rave reviews from professional foodies will keep you coming back.

If you are ever in Charleston, SC for the historical aesthetics just fast forward hundreds of years and hit up Jack's.

Hot Dog of the Week: Ted's Hot Dogs

Each independently owned hot dog restaurant is a bit different. There are different themes, different concoctions to top the hot dog, and different ways to prepare the hot dog.

Well at Ted's Hot Dogs they have chosen to cook their dogs the same way many of us cook a hot dog in the summertime- over a charcoal flame. Have you ever gone to a restaurant for a charcoal prepped dog? In a good charcoaled dog, you taste the smoke in the outer casing or from the beef on the inside.

Ted's has branched out to seven locations over Western New York, but the same homemade onion rings, real ice cream milk shakes, and homemade hot sauce can be ordered with your hot dog at any location.

See why Ted's has been able so stay in business and grown since 1927 by clicking HERE.

Hot Dog of the Week : Joey's Hot Dogs

What keeps you going back to your favorite hot dog place?

Is it the variety of hot dogs? Is it the way they make your favorite hot dog? Is it the fact you have been going there for years and years?

Well at Joey's hot dogs, they want to know who you are so when you walk in they can call you by name and make your hot dog the way you like it.

A family owned restaurant since the 1930's they still use the original recipe today that made them famous over 70 years ago. In fact they still use the same ingredient suppliers as when they first opened.

So come on in, sit at the soda counter and enjoy the simple menu. See why Joey's is a staple in Richmond, VA. Who knows, perhaps they will say 'hello ___' to you as well.

Southern California Hot Dog Guide

Though we have not yet been able to venture West of the Mississippi River to review hot dog places, someone took the liberty to review San Diego, California hot dogs for us.

Check out this article courtesy of SanDiego.com by clicking HERE.

Hot Dog of the Week: Weiner and Still Champion

Part of getting people into your local eatery is having a catchy name.

In a hot dog crazed city like Chicago where an iconic dog is named after your city and Vienna Beef is based out of the town, the competition can be stiff on where to eat.

Just Northwest of the happening downtown in Evanston is Weiner and Still Champion.

One of the things that set this place apart is they make everything themselves. That's right, they make it before your eyes. From the batter they cover their Dippin' Dogs in or the homemade chili or the fresh ground burgers.

They also serve deep fried pickle chips. If this side dish is anything like deep fried pickles, then we would love to have a serving.

Check 'em out yourself.

Hot Diggity Dog

Lancaster, PA

When thinking of South Central Pennsylvania what jumps to mind? The drive through the Alleghany Mountains perhaps, or the historic battlefield of Gettysburg? How about Amish country where life seems to be a little more simple? Well in the same town of Lancaster, but on the opposite end of where there is a large Amish population is Hot Diggity Dog. Just about 20 months old as of Thanksgiving 2010, the owner had always wanted to open a hot dog place, and after 20 years of selling bottled water from a glacier, he decided to open his own place. Starting with one of the best dogs on the market, he is the only hot dog place between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia to serve Vienna Beef hot dogs. I told him that it was the snap of the Vienna casing that makes a good hot dog. He simply smiled and said he used the non encased version of a Vienna, but it was the way he grilled it that made it have more of a snap to it. Each of the dogs comes served on a steamed poppy seed roll unless you ask for a plain bun. They served a Chicago dog, which I almost always get, but there was a dog that just jumped out as different. In fact this dog is so different that you furrow your brow and squint your eyes while curling your lip just to figure out if you can palate each of the opposing tastes. Just two toppings go on this unique dog, and it has a name that about sums it up. May I present to you, the Moon Dog. The Moon Dog has melted swiss cheese, and strawberry preserves. I bit into it and smiled, it truly was good. As I asked how he came up with this dog, the owner smiled and said, he stole it from a guy in California. Just as advertised you “HAVE TO TRY” it. B

Atmosphere - Located on a pie shaped piece of property at the junction of two roads, The bright sign will bring you in and the eating challenges they have will keep you coming back. The first gulttony contest they ran, became to easy as it was just eating six dogs. But in the new contest, The Super Diggity, there has yet to be someone who can conquer the four footlong challenge where dog each weighs in at nearly half a pound, and is adorned with every topping under the sun. Having Chicago roots, this place mirrors a smaller place that you would find in the Windy City. In fact on one of the walls there is a map of Chicago-land and the hundreds of pushpins impressed on the map reflect the transplant patrons of the area. If the place was packed wall to wall it could fit 50 customers, and if the word continues to get out on this new place, the lines might be out the door. B+

Value – Offering patrons Footlong dogs starting under $4.00 and ten different hot dog options under $3.00, they also offer 3” hot dogs they call 'pups' for under a buck. Considering that the local gas station chain offers a daily hot dog special, these dogs are a bit more expensive than other dogs in the town. But anyone who is on this site knows that NO kind of quality comes from a gas station hot dog. Simply find Hot Diggity Dog and pay for quality instead of quantity. Heck, if you want quantity you can order packs of dogs as well. B

Side Dish Jody says.. I didn't eat anything at this hot dog joint as I was already full to the brim from Thanksgiving goodness. Upon review of the menu it appeared they had pretty limited non-hot dog options, including hamburger, fries or chili cheese fries. They did have one unusual option, however, called Funnel Cake Sticks. Probably just some kind of tasty fried dough - not healthy, but tastey sounding! C

Hot Dog of the Week: Jim's Original

When looking for a hot dog to eat usually you want it quick, and you want it now.

"Now" can be a vague term. You have to drive or walk to get it, but when the urge comes on you want to chow down. Even if that urge is at 3:00 a.m.

3:00 a.m? Yes at Jim's Orginal you can have a hot dog 24 hours a day.

In Chi-town, which is known for its Chicago dogs, Jim's Original has been in business for over 70 years, and offers free fries with each dog or sandwich.

Order up your Viena Beef hot dog, which in itself is a Chicago native and chow down at Jim's. Even if it is at 3:00 a.m.

Hot Dog of the Week: Hot Dog Diner

What is the least you have ever paid for a hot dog from a vendor or restaurant? Over time as we have made this blog, we are quite thrilled when we can find a hot dog option for under $2.

The Hot Dog Diner in Parma, OH might have the lowest prices I have seen in ten years. $1.25 will buy you the Classic Hot Dog. Want a hot dog in natural casing? You are still going to pay well under two bucks.

These prices cannot be beat anywhere!

So if traveling to the greater Cleveland area and you have less than five bucks in your pocket, swing on through the Hot Dog Diner and get stuffed...plus have enough left over money for the tollsways.

UK Prime Minister Enjoys American Hot Dog

Britain's Prime Minister, David Cameron, was treated to an American icon upon his arrival in New York.

The Prime Minister ate a hot dog from a street vendor in the Big Apple as his first taste of what America is like.

Click HERE to read to full article courtesy of England's Telegraph

Hot Dog of the Week: The Wienery

When Side Dish Jody and I look for hot dog joints around the country when we travel, we like options. Or should I say Jody likes options, I like the hot dogs.

Well the next time we are in Minneapolis The Wienery might be the place to go.

Serving Vienna hot dogs for each of the dog options, they also serve cheese steak, sausage, sandwiches and breakfast all day.

The Wienery was also featured on the Food Network hit show Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.

West Side Market

Cleveland, OH

I learned two very important things on this road trip to Cleveland. 1) Always make sure you have the address of where you intend. 2) Make sure I communicate better to Side Dish Jody on where we are planning to go.

Getting “lost” is not always a bad thing though, as we were looking for a specific hot dog restaurant and instead came to this market. Strolling through West Side Market there were dozens of vendors that turned back the clock to what butcher shops were like only a few decades ago. For sale at the booths were homemade sausage, brats, and hot dogs made with the traditional beef or pork. What was non-traditional were the same products made out of lamb, turkey, reindeer, goat, and ox. Each booth had its own flare or overall theme to it. There was a Middle-Eastern booth, Indian cuisine (probably not beef at this booth) European meats, and local favorites as well.

Each counter had patrons plied up 2 or 3 deep with droves of traffic shuffling through the crowd on their way to the next booth.

Atmosphere- I wish I could have found a plaque, or monument that dictated how old this building was or what it might have been at one point. It was made out of brick and subway tile, and looked like it could have been a train depot, or a bus station at one point. Side Dish Jody pointed out that it could have just been a really old market and it was built for what it currently holds. Though we went looking for a hot dog to eat and review on the day, we walked away with the knowledge of a hot spot to get your own dogs or encased products at instead.

Value- Everything seemed very reasonable, and comparable to what you would find at your local grocer. If you come in search of this place, bring a large cooler and fill it with the fresh product that you will find inside.

Our New Layout

When this blog was started in the late summer of 2009 it was a very generic looking format.

We have decided to spice it up a bit and change things around.

This blog is by us, but for our readers, so please tell us what you think of the new format.

Another Stolen Hot Dog Cart

One of the things I enjoy in life (besides hot dogs) is going to flea markets and garage sales looking for that special piece of junk that I cannot live without.

I have seen just about everything sold at flea markets. I have seen a turn of the 1900's prosthetic leg, I have seen a booth full of used and new ink pens. I have seen every beer sign, road sign, political sign that has ever graced a garage, or street corner.

One thing I have not seen though is a hot dog vendor cart for sale.

Perhaps I should look for one so I can return it to this New Jersey man who had his stolen.

Click HERE to read the article of the vanishing hot dog cart courtesy of lohud.com

Hot Dog of the Week: Chili Man Weiners

Few demographic groups devour more hot dogs than college students. Whether it is because they can buy so many for pennies on the dollar, or because they can be easily made.

Well Chili Man Weiners near the campus of Towson University in Baltimore, MD encourages you to come in for a Hangover Dog, or grab a famous orange box full of Double Dog Burritos to go after calling in your order.

Monday's feature free chili on any of their dogs. Seasonal menu items are no stranger to restaurants and Chili Man offers apple pie milkshakes. Seriously, how good does that sound?

Hot dogs not your thing? Well then why are you here on our blog!!! Grab some chicken and waffles or a bowl of homemade chili instead.

Angry Hot Dog Vendor Revolts

We have all bought hot dogs from the person peddling them on the corner.

Whether it was a nice summer day, and the waft fumes caught your nostrils or it was simply something to eat after the concert let out at midnight.

Hopefully your experience was better than what the customer at this street vendor received.

Click here to read the story courtesy of Capitol Hill Seatle.

Hot Dog of the Week: Mad Dogs

Chicago dogs are a commodity in and of itself. The taste and urge for Chicago dogs are something that I get on occasion, and a true Chicago dog is often better than a hot dog with other toppings.

Well Mad Dogs is in the college town of UW Madison has been noted as the top Chicago Dog by a very notable Chicago Dog website...and they are not even within 150 miles of Chicago.

Each dog opption comes with a Hebrew National dog, unless a Vienna dog is requested in it's place.

Enjoy the vast menu and participate in the clown army. Oh and by the way, they have bigger wieners...or so they say.

The Dog Track

Hastings, MI

Eaters, start your engines. Get ready for The Dog Track. A hot dog restaurant that takes the owner's passion for NASCAR and combines it with the love for feeding people hot dogs. Each of the dogs is named after a famed Speedway in North America. On the day we visited, I had a Richmond dog and a Charlotte dog. The Richmond had the typical "fab four" toppings on a hot dog- ketchup, mustard, relish and onions. The relish was West Michigan style for those who read us often (more of a shredded pickle topping that seems to be unique to the area). The Charlotte had the fab four toppings plus shredded cheese on top of that. Nothing too out of the box, but I wish I would have tried one of the more unique combinations available. Such as the Watkins-Glen that features pastrami or the Las Vegas that contains roast beef...but then again neither of those are actually hot dogs. Sitting next to the check out counter was dozens of kinds of hot sauces. When inquiring as to what the purpose of those were the owner said they would pick them up from their own travels around the country. So come in for a dog and top it off with some spice from Oregon to Florida, or New York to New Mexico. A very cool condiment topper that could bring a taste of someplace you have been as well. B-

Atmosphere- If it has to do with race cars, this place has it. Die cast models, ticket stubs from races, autographs, posters, and half of an external shell of a car on the wall (no joke). Pay no attention to the Halloween decorations, they are seasonal...I am assuming. Put on top of this that they sponsor cruise-ins often in the summer for those hot rods to park in front of the joint and let people ponder yesteryear over a hot dog. On one corner of the wall is a TV that more often than not has racing on TV. Whether it is a previously run race, or the latest in car news, this is the place to watch the race and eat a dog. If you are a NASCAR fan, this is your hot dog heaven. B

Value- Each dog, no matter the toppings are $2.00 each. If you want a bratwurst or one of the dogarito's (hot dog in a burrito) then they are a fraction more. $2 bucks no matter what goes on top of it, that is a bargain. But hold on-if you come to eat during a cruise-in, the dogs are only a buck....ONE DOLLAR my friends. Come out, see the cars, eat a dog, and for goodness sake bring a couple George Washington's because you will NOT find hot dogs at a restaurant for a dollar within hundreds of miles of this place. A

Side Dish Jody says...I had the chicken tender wrap which was a single tortilla with one or two fried chicken strips, a small amount of lettuce, and a small amount of diced tomatoes with ranch dressing. It tasted as expected but at $5.25 it seemed a little pricey for what was received. There was, however, a wide variety of non hot dog items on the menu including salads, sandwiches and fried goodies. B-

Hot Dog of the Week: Chicago's Dog House

Note to our readers- This post is about dogs IN Chicago, not Chicago dogs. Big difference.

But different is what Chicago's Dog House is all about.

True hot dog lovers appreciate an all beef hot dog. There are also hot dogs that have been made out of chicken, turkey, and God knows what else.

But it's that "what else" which separates Chicago's Dog House from other places. Newly opened in 2009, this place will make you a dog out of duck, alligator, and even kangaroo to name a few of the more interesting dogs.

Click on their website, read about their entrepreneurship and what a frip is.

But most importantly, when in Chicago, go buy a hot dog. If going out to them does not interest you, let them deliver your hot dogs to where you are.

WE WANT YOUR STADIUM DOGS

Readers take note.

We are opening up our scrolling Stadium Dogs picture section to everyone.

Take a picture of you eating a Hot Dog at any pro or college sporting event, and e-mail us the picture. We will then add it to our feed of pictures.

With football starting, and basketball and hockey around the corner, it is a good time to start this project.

Got one from yester-year? Send it in!

Let's see how many different places we can get!

Hot Dog of the Week: Hillbilly Hot Dogs

The other night, Side Dish Jody and I were watching one of our favorite TV shows- Diner's, Drive-in's, and Dives, and we saw this joint featured in a snippet.

Hot dogs have never been the classiest food, but this place cornered the market on a unique niche for hot dogs.

We are proud to introduce you to West Virginia's Hillbilly Hot Dogs.
photo courtesy of hillbillyhotdogs.com

Building their "establishment" (and we proudly use that term loosely) they built this hot dog destination on the side of a hill. Now people flock from all over the country to try their 15" homewrecker hot dog.

Visit this site and see why The Travel Chanel, and Food Network rave about this place.

Better yet, jump on the road and check them out.

Hot Dog of the Week: King David Dogs

We eat hot dogs. We love hot dogs. We blog about hot dogs.

Some folks have made it a mission to search out the best hot dog restaurant. Some more ambitious people have followed their hot dog passion and opened their own hot dog restaurant. But actually making your own hot dogs is a step above ambition, it can be flat out hard.

May I introduce you to Indianapolis, Indiana's own King David Dogs.

Located in the smack dab center of the city, King David's has been voted the best hot dog of Indianapolis for 2010.

Some family members wanted to recreate an old family hot dog recipe, and viola this landmark was established.

Read about the history, and drool over the delicious menu of this Indy Original. But do not just stop there. Take a trip to the city, and down a State Fair dog, Reuben dog, or a Pretzel dog for yourself.

Hot Dog of the Week: Yank's Franks

Hot dogs are what has drawn us all together on this site.

The love of eating pure beef (hopefully) in a casing that can be topped with a vast array of our favorite condiments and extras. Eating one by yourself, sharing a few with friends, or cataloging many great eateries around the world is what many of us enjoy.

One person though decided to take his personal love of hot dogs, followed a dream and opened his own restaurant.

May I introduce you to Yank's Franks.

This Maine based restaurant has gone through the gambit of choosing a name, constructing the building, and working to serve quite frankly, the best hot dogs.

Read the chronicles of how Yank's Franks came into existence and is serving hot dogs in the Great Vacationland.

And the Weiner Is...

Thank you to all of the readers and new followers who participated in our contest for MLB tickets and Sonic giftcards.

We had a record number of comments left during this contest and hope that many of you will now choose to post comments more often and read our blog regularly.

Using the website, www.random.org we submitted the names of those who met the criteria of the contest.

Without further delay the prize winners of the two Sonic gift cards are:

ourtown said...

Oh so many choices.....I love the Sonic Burger comb, and the chili cheese dog. But my favorite time is Happy Hour!!!! I cannot wait to get one a Diet Cherry LimeAdes.

Ann said...

Limeade.... Always, the limeade.

And the grand prize winner of Major League Baseball or AAA baseball tickets is:

MVNUSID said...

I usually get the Super Sonic combo with a large sweet tea. A cherry limeade is also a great happy hour treat.

Sonic and baseball tickets...a winning combination!

Congratulations to those who posted and each of the winners please e-mail us at hotdogsontheroad@gmail.com with your contact information so we can get the prizes out to you.

South of the Border Hot Dogs

How far would you travel to get a good hot dog?

This is not a rhetorical question, but rather a news segment put out by CBS with political satire comedian and pop culture guru, Mo Rocca hosting the bit.

Click here to view this 3 minute trip to Mexico featuring some delicious twists on our favorite food, the hot dog.

Hot Dog of the Week: Rutt's Hut

In the restaurant business, you are known by your faithful clientele.

When no one can seem to find anything wrong with what you do, then you know you have a hit.

Whether you choose to come for the cheap dogs (under $2), cheap beer ($2 bottles) or homemade relish, just hit up Rutt's Hut when visiting New Jersey.

Enter through the telephone booth like door and enjoy the food from a place that has been around for about 100 years.

Click here to read the review courtesy of Hawk Krall and Seriouseats.com

FREE SONIC GIFT CARDS & BASEBALL TICKETS

We were contacted by Sonic, America's Drive-In to do a review of their new Footlong Quarter Pound Coney Dog.

Sonic is also running a giveaway through our blog to entice our readers, as well as their patrons, to win a FREE $25 gift card, and be registered to win FREE Major League Baseball, or AAA baseball tickets.

Details of this giveaway will be at the end of this shortened review- so read on, then join our contest.

Anytown, USA

"Footlongs, who wants a footlong?" The quote from Dumb and Dumber that became true one summer night at Sonic.

Nestled inside a bun that was not overpowering in size to the proportion of the dog, was a blend of chili, cheese, and the dog itself. The chili had a pleasant lower spice level to it. If you are not a connoisseur of spicy chili, this is just potent enough to notice the spice but not too overpowering to eat. The chili is not thick enough to eat a good bowl of it, but wonderfully topped the length of the dog. Shredded cheddar cheese was lightly sprinkled over the top and melted the perfect amount to compliment the chili. With each bite of the dog, I could taste each individual component - the dog, chili, and cheese- but at the same time they blended so well on my palate.

I was shocked to see that a footlong was going to be sold for $2.99! In some situations cheaper means less quality, but not in this one. Any place that would sell a footlong- be it a street vendor, carnival, or restaurant daring enough to keep these in stock, could easily get twice this price. Kudos to Sonic for keeping the price low and enticing customers to get more than one of these for the bargain of a price.

*********

So how can you be entered to win this FREE $25 gift card and FREE Major League Baseball, or AAA baseball tickets through dogsontheroad.blogspot.com and courtesy of our friends at Sonic, America's Drive-In? Just 3 simple steps.

1) Become a follower of our blog. If you are already a follower, you have this step out of the way.

2) Visit Sonic's website and check out their menu, happy hour options and locations.

3) Leave a comment with what menu item on Sonic's website sounds the best to you by clicking on "comments" at the bottom of this post.

Our contest will run UNTIL AUGUST 14th with the wiener (pun intended) announced on the blog later that week. Make sure you check back to see if you have won.

Good luck to all and THANK YOU for being loyal, or future loyal, readers of dogsontheroad.blogspot.com

Frankfurter's

Seattle, WA

Out for a run while in Seattle along the wharf, the smell coming off of the Puget Sound was not that of fish and trolling fishing boats. The smell that filtered into my nostrils was that of sausage, and bratwurst, and hot dogs being cooked. I picked up the pace and ran past this small stand that was the size of a gardening shed called The Frankfurter. I returned around lunch time and was amazed at the variety and popularity of such a small stand. 12 count them 12 different dog options were offered. Non traditional options such as sun dried tomato dogs and Thai chicken dogs were on the menu, as well as scarcely found bockworst, and kosher dogs. On the day I had a kielbasa topped with grilled onions and peppers with a sole line of hot mustard to enhance the flavor. The dog was wrapped in a thicker bun that you would commonly think of around a thick kielbasa or even an East coast hoagie. The casing was a bit tougher to bite through, but that is normal for a kielbasa. The spiced meat flavor came through though as a mighty tasty dog on the afternoon. Next time I visit, I will run longer so I can develop a bigger hunger than one lone kielbasa. B

Atmosphere- I have had hot dogs on the Atlantic ocean (see our South Carolina posts) and now this is the furthest West we have gone on our hot dog travels. Though more than a portable stand, but with the panache of a street vendor cart, it was a very cool idea. A dog at a local stand is hard to top, especially when you can turn and view a 180 degrees of waterfront acreage and the bustle of people exploring the tourist area. I walked for a bit and had my picture taken just a few blocks away next to the Seattle Mariners and Seahawks stadium. C+

Value - Dogs that come from street vendor-esque peddlers have been known to gouge patrons due to the supply and demand principle. But considering the fact that I got a grilled kielbasa, with peppers and onions on a thick roll of a bun for under $5 I was quite pleased. If in Seattle head to one of their three locations and venture away from the traditional restaurants that line the other side of the street. B

Side Dish Jody Says...was not on the trip and could not revue the non hot dog options.

Hot Dog of the Week: Dog House Drive-In

This segment of Hot Dog of the Week is courtesy of our friends at seriouseats.com and they found a place on historic Route 66.

Very few places give you a choice of chili sauces for your dogs. So contemplate the level of spice you want in either red or green sauce. So when traveling the great Southwest, get your kicks on Route 66 at the Dog House Drive-In.

Tony Packos

Lady Lake, FL/ Anytown, USA

Tony Packos is a Toledo, Ohio restaurant that gained national attention from the T.V. show M*A*S*H as the place Jamie Farr (Corporal Klinger) raved about. We came across this Tony Packos restaurant in Central Florida after being told about it by one of our readers. Now be warned- this review may not be an accurate review of the original chain in Northwest, Ohio but it is the same chain with the same hot dogs. For such a nationally iconic restaurant to be buried in the back corner of a bowling alley was not the wisest of choices, but nevertheless, it needed to be reviewed. I had a pair of dogs which were the Tony Packos Orginal Hot Dogs. These were smoked sausage served under mustard, onions and their famous sauce. The dog itself, though not a true hot dog, was very tasty. A good firm snap to the casing and a good sausage inside. The sauce on top was very tasty as well, and I ate them just as they came-no other toppings necessary. Next time I have a Tony Packos, I will wait until I head to the greater Toledo area. C-

Atmosphere- When we walked in the door at lunch time, we were the only customers, other than the sprinkled people bellied up to the bar. This Packos was themed to be sports bar-esque then at night it was set up with a DJ booth, dance floor and light show from the ceiling. Being the only customers, you would think we would have had great service. Contraire mon frere. Hopefully results are not typical for everyone, but our socially awkward server with the personality of a wet hot dog bun brought things out very slowly and did not even check on us. Bad things come in threes, right? Bowling alley hot dog place, dance club atmosphere, Revenge of the Nerds server. D

Value- At $2.99 for the Tony Packos Original, this was worth the money. The dog is longer and thicker than a normal hot dog, but not quite the size of a 1/4 pound all-beef dog that many places serve. The sauce itself, which is sold in many grocery stores, is worth the price of the dog itself, so everything was saved with the cost. Maybe the cost is lower to make up for everything else. B+

Side Dish Jody says...I ordered the taco salad which was bland taco meat, lettuce, onion, tomato, cheese and salsa in a deep taco shell. The taco shell was tasty and flaky but overall the whole salad was somewhat average. C