New Jersey Hot Dogs

grr... i am away on company paid vacation fri-sunday. sounds like a good one. i hate missing out on the fun.

Owly, dont' waste time at Lenny's instead head down the raod about another 15 minutes (Street Road 132 same road Lenny's is on)and hit Nifty Fifties for their Texas Tommy's. ONE OF THE BEST DOGS WE HAVE EVER HAD. It is tied for number one on our list with Charlies Pool Room and Jimmy's on the Delaware's Fiesta Dog. Also Great Burger offers a decent ripper as well in Southampton. Again off the same road - Street Road

Tony

quote:

Originally posted by Owly

this year will be the 7th year for the HDT (my third year). we normally hit central jersey & PA and north jersey, but this year our Hot Dog Tour is heading into South Jersey and Delaware. anyone know much about any of these?
1. Cravings Stockton, NJ
2. Texas Wieners Philadelphia, PA
3. The Dog House New Castle, DE
4. Deerhead Wilmington, DE
5. John’s Doggie Stand Boothwyn, PA
6. The Last Stand Holmes, PA
7. Lenny’s Hot Dogs Philadelphia, PA
8. Coney Island Joe’s Morrisville, PA
9. River Hot Dog Man Frenchtown, NJ (on river)
10. Charlie’s Pool Room Alpha, NJ (we usually wrap the tour every year at Charlies)

Congratulations! There was an article in the paper about your tour. http://www.nj.com/news/expresstimes/nj/index.ssf?/base/news-5/118438594825000.xml&coll=2&thispage=1

Although it gave some background about you guys, it didn't directly talk about the 10 or so stops. How about some reviews?

Thanks for the pointer to the article John.

Nice little read guys. And congrats to all of those who attended the tour. It definitely sounds like fun.

I love the idea of a van load of "guys in the same T-shirt rolling up"...I can just picture the expressions on those behind the counter! ROTFL

--Hot Dawg
The Hot Dog Stand

quote:

Originally posted by John Fox

quote:

Originally posted by Owly

this year will be the 7th year for the HDT (my third year). we normally hit central jersey & PA and north jersey, but this year our Hot Dog Tour is heading into South Jersey and Delaware. anyone know much about any of these?
1. Cravings Stockton, NJ
2. Texas Wieners Philadelphia, PA
3. The Dog House New Castle, DE
4. Deerhead Wilmington, DE
5. John’s Doggie Stand Boothwyn, PA
6. The Last Stand Holmes, PA
7. Lenny’s Hot Dogs Philadelphia, PA
8. Coney Island Joe’s Morrisville, PA
9. River Hot Dog Man Frenchtown, NJ (on river)
10. Charlie’s Pool Room Alpha, NJ (we usually wrap the tour every year at Charlies)

Congratulations! There was an article in the paper about your tour. http://www.nj.com/news/expresstimes/nj/index.ssf?/base/news-5/118438594825000.xml&coll=2&thispage=1

Although it gave some background about you guys, it didn't directly talk about the 10 or so stops. How about some reviews?

thanks.
thats me on the right
http://www.pennlive.com/lehighvalley/index.ssf/2007/07/14/

Deerhead in Delaware won. I think Lenny's surprisingly came in 2nd with Texas weiner coming in third. overall- the quality of the south philly/delaware dogs could not compete with the central and north jersey powerhouses...but it was still a great tour. next year possibly a tour of champions.

Owly,

Did you know that some of us who post regularly on these forums run a hot dog tour in September? We rent a bus and hit mostly North Jersey places. You can find out more by reading about it in the Miscellaneous Food Related forum. It's open to anyone. Hopefully you and your friends can join us this year.

I went and tried the Falls View on Route 3 last night. The dogs were Ok, but the chilli left a lot to be desired, doesn't anyone outside Jersey City make it spicy. Does anyone know a really really good chilli dog place in Middlesex count???

Middlesex Texas Weiner, corner of Route #28 and King George Road, Middlesex, makes a very good Texas Weiner.
The Bear

Happy 75th Birthday to Jimmy Buffs.

http://www.nj.com/printer/printer.ssf?/base/news-12/1185858059112830.xml&coll=1&thispage=2

In other news, Middlesex Texas Weiner, Middlesex, N.J., has added a beef alternative to the Grote & Weigel pork/beef dog that proudly supports the fixings adorning its Texas Weiner.

Also now available as either a Texas Weiner or topped with any other traditional condiment, is the Hatfield, natural casing beef frank, previously designated as Angus. Hot dog enthusiasts in NJ may recall that this is the same beef dog that wowed 'em at the shortlived Top Dog in Metuchen. You'll note a distinctive smokiness.

Both the new entry and the mainstay are cooked on a griddle, exhibiting just the right amount of slightly crisp doneness at this venue that continues to exhibit good quality control.
The Bear

Visiting my grandparents in Middlesex and them taking me to Middlesex Texas Weiner is one of my fondest childhood memories. Back then (15-20 years ago) they made one heck of a good dog. I'm glad to see that hasnt changed, next time I return to NJ I'll have to go back there. Sadly the other hot dog heaven of my youth has gone downhill. Texas Weiner II on RT 22 and Washington Rock Rd in Greenbrook used to be one of the best in the area. I think the passing of their long time cook is what caused such a slide. The weiners there were incredible, but my last few visits (sometime in 2002) were disappointing at best. Hopefully that has or will change. Also, J&G Texas Weiner's on North Ave in Dunellen is quite good. I went there my last return visit to NJ and was pleased. I also stopped by Red Tower in Bridgewater and was glad I did. Virginia just hasnt gotten the hot dog thing right, down here an oscar meyer with canned chili is looked upon as great. Maybe I'm just spoiled food wise being from NJ.

We have Five Guys here in Virginia I'll have to try it and see for myself. I've been looking for a good dog place ever since I moved here.

Thanks!
The idea of applying the 5 Guys option to The problem of the dearth of Chicago style dogs here in Delaware hadn't occurred to me
Will pack the celery salt and try it tomorrow
"the Five Guys Option"...Ludlam could have used that title

Man what a great thread, Libbys is about 1 mile from me, also pappys in totowa makes a good chilli sauce. Does anyone remember Cousin bens he had a truck parked on Moonachie ave in moonachie during the 60's and early seventies he got nailed for number running spent a few years in jail and reopened his stand in lyndhurst in the late seventies and had it there till 1992 best dirty water dogs with an outstanding red onion sauce.

Hey all,
I mentioned a few pages back about a place in Milford called Vinnie's Dogs which had taken over the space occupied by the Bridge Street Dog Pound. I was in the area today and noticed that now it's called Big Momma's Dog House. It was raining, and I was late and ok I have no excuse for not stopping at a new dog stand. But I'll have to stop soon and I'll let everyone know all about it.

DPuro

Jimmy Buff's was mentioned in the Chicago Tribune recently.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/magazine/chi-mxa0812magfoodaug12,0,3948571.story

Hi guys.

Second time on this site - still finding it a bit confusing. Googled to find new location of a favorite (Father & Son in Linden) and got great info from the other thread (had to google again to get back there). It is apparently now where J's was on St. George Ave., just off Stiles St. I strongly suggest their chili dogs to all.

They were just off Wood Ave by the City Hall for as long as I can remember (gray beard, nuf said). I had stopped in and found that they were being evicted by the landlord for a bank. They planned to reopen downtown (apparently that fell through) and I waited. Next time in town, no Father & Son, but "Manny's Texas Weiner" in their location!! Can't bring myself to give them my business. Glad that F&S has opened. I believe that the hours are 10-5, not sure of weekend, so take that into account. Considering that they were treated badly, I hope that you all try them and recommend them to others if you find them as good as I do!

I am in CA now, but come to NJ often. Good info in both links. Thanks.
wbj

wbjake,

I went to Father & Son many times at their original location on Wood Ave. and Blancke St. And I'm sorry that their lease was not renewed. It was truly a unique old time luncheonette. The dogs and chili are the same at the new location, but it doesn't compare to the old one for atmosphere and ambience. I, too, thought that they were treated badly, but have since found out more info. The owner is a bit of a tyrant. He married into the family that owned Father & Son. I've heard about him from employees as well as one of his suppliers. I've met him and he was cordial to me, but he really doesn't care about publicity and did not want to be featured in the newspaper or on television some years back when CN8 did a feature on hot dogs. I've found out that the reason his lease was not renewed was because he was always late paying the rent and that the owners of the building were tired of dealing with him. He doesn't seem to be at the restaurant often. But the dogs and chili are good, which is why Father & Son has been so popular.

John Fox,

Thanks for a different take on things. The info that I got was from one of the long time ladies working the hotdog station. Didn't see any of them when I was at the new place, just kids working the front. Hope that they landed well. The new place is tiny, but the chili dogs are still great.

After reading the above, I feel more like cutting the new owners (off Wood Ave.) some slack. BUT: How is the food? And by food, I mean Chili Dogs! Could go to both, as F&S has limited hours.

By the way, I believe that an earlier post favorably mentioned Charlies (Kenilworth) for their Italian hotdogs. Worked down the street from them one summer between semesters. Ate and waited for the heartburn to begin - didn't and went back for more. Are they still good? This past week a meter installer mentioned that the son took over and deep fries the dogs, along with other changes for the worse. Used to be a slanted griddle with grease down one end and the dogs, peppers and potatoes would be slid into the fat to cook for you. Opinions?

went to what i thought was father and sons the other day for the first time only to see it being called "mannys" ok ,i saw the texas weiner sign and had to try it.ordered two dogs up and i thought they were pretty good. however id still like to try father and sons dog. where are the located fom the old place??

quote:

Originally posted by wbjake

John Fox,

Thanks for a different take on things. The info that I got was from one of the long time ladies working the hotdog station. Didn't see any of them when I was at the new place, just kids working the front. Hope that they landed well. The new place is tiny, but the chili dogs are still great.

After reading the above, I feel more like cutting the new owners (off Wood Ave.) some slack. BUT: How is the food? And by food, I mean Chili Dogs! Could go to both, as F&S has limited hours.

By the way, I believe that an earlier post favorably mentioned Charlies (Kenilworth) for their Italian hotdogs. Worked down the street from them one summer between semesters. Ate and waited for the heartburn to begin - didn't and went back for more. Are they still good? This past week a meter installer mentioned that the son took over and deep fries the dogs, along with other changes for the worse. Used to be a slanted griddle with grease down one end and the dogs, peppers and potatoes would be slid into the fat to cook for you. Opinions?

wbjake,

Manny's serves a grilled Texas Weiner with thick chili compared to the Passaic County places like Hot Grill and Libby's. It's similar to what many people in other states in the East call a Coney. Good beef and pork dog (Grote & Weigel) and the chili is less spicy than Father & Son. It's definitely worth going to.

Regarding Charlies in Kenilworth, I think there is some confusion. Originally, Charlies was a Jimmy Buff's. And they used the slanted pan like all Jimmy Buff's locations did/do. Then in 1962 the location was sold to a man named Charlie. Charlie sold it to someone else. This man ran the store and then turned it over to his son. But this was in the late 80's or early 90's. I began going to Charlies in the late 90's when the son ran it. Everything was prepared in deep fryers. An excellent sandwich. In fact, at the time it was my favorite Italian Hot Dog. My daughter worked there throughout high school and into college.

About 2 years ago, the owner lost interest in the business. He became a real estate agent and began devoting less time to the restaurant. As a result, quality suffered. There was always a good staff working there. When the young people left to go to school or get other jobs, they were replaced with apathetic young people. Now service was bad as well. I stopped going. I did go with the Munchmobile Team last summer. We had to go twice because they closed before the time posted at the store and on their menus. Charlies did not get good reviews. The bread wasn't good, nor were the potatoes. I found out that unused bread was sometimes frozen.

A couple of weeks ago I learned that Charlies was sold. So after not going for more than a year, I returned. I've gone there twice since the change in ownership. The first time the dog was good; similar to what it was in the past. Last week I went again and it wasn't so good. The bread was stale and tasteless. The potatoes were cut thicker than before (not a big deal) but also lacked the flavor they had when this place served a good product. The dogs and peppers are very good, but the sandwich as a whole was not. At least not on my last visit. As I've said in the past, when the owner stopped caring, the product was inconsistent. It appears to be the same way now, even with new ownership. I'll give it one more try. If you want a consistently good Italian Hot Dog, Tommy's in Elizabeth is fairly close to Charlies. They have actually improved the last 2 years, increasing the size of their dogs and adding more peppers. Jimmy Buff's is excellent as well if you don't mind travelling a little. Out of their 4 locations (Irvington, Scotch Plains, East Windsor, and West Orange) I like East Hanover and West Orange. Joes Pizzeria in UNion also makes a good Italian Hot Dog.

Hello all ,

For an interesting take on things John has included the new Mannys in the old Father and Son location and the new Father and Son in the old J's Beef location on the 4th Annual Jersey Hot Dog Tour on Sat. Sept 15th .
Go to the thread in the Misc. Foods section on the Hot Dog Tour for more info .

Benzee

I recently came across a very good hot dog in an unusual place. I say unusual because most hot dogs that I consider very good come from a hot dog stand, restaurant, truck, or cart. Then again, there's really no reason why you can't come across a very good (rather than good, average, or fair) hot dog at a movie theatre, snack bar, employee cafeteria, school, etc. After all, this is New Jersey, a state famous for hot dogs. All it takes is a quality hot dog that is consistently prepared well by people who care.

My son, who just finished his sophomore year in high school got a job working at the snack bar in a bowling alley. He told me that they have a pretty good selection of food that is popular with the bowlers. Especially good he said, were the hot dogs and cheeseburgers. I asked him questions about the hot dogs including brand, size, method of preparation, etc. He didn't know, only that they were jumbo, $2.35 and very popular.

One night when I went to pick him up from work, I stopped in and asked his supervisor about the dogs. They are a 4 to a lb Best's all beef dog that is deep fried. I've had one now 3 or 4 times. This is the same size dog that is served at Amazing Hot Dog in Verona and it is prepared the same way. While they don't have the variety of toppings that you can get at Amazing, (I mostly get a good beef dog with mustard only) they are almost a buck cheaper and only a mile from my home. The dogs are well prepared and remain hot even when my son has brought one home for me.

The snack bar is located inside Hy Way Bowl on rt 22 West in Union. If you're bowling there, or just driving by, stop in for a dog. And if you're there Tues, Wed, Thurs night or on Saturday, say hello to the tall, handsome young man behind the counter.

Hi,
Here in Brick, NJ,by the shore,there's a small hot dog place on Drum Point rd
called Boardwalk Hot Dogs. They use the superb giant natural casing Shickhouse brand as most Board walk places use(thus the name for the place). What a superb place!!! I've eaten hot dogs all over the world in my 62 years...and most famous places in Jersey(Max's, windmill,rutshut etc etc etc),,,and I defy anyone to taste this "Dog" and tell me there's one better....It's worth the trip:Boardwalk hot dogs in Brick NJ.
leethebard

I was to Boardwalk Hot Dogs in Brick last summer only to find it closed. I went as part of the Munchmobile Team. The reporter had called ahead to make sure of their hours before we made the trip. Unfortunately they were not open for some reason. I have had the Schickhaus dog and it is very good if grilled sufficiently. You've been to Max's, so you can make a comparison. I can't comment on Boardwalk Hot Dogs, but if you like the Schickhaus dog served there, let me suggest trying Jimmy Buff's in East Hanover. They serve this dog, but with a different twist. It is grilled (griddled) like Max's, and I assume Boardwalk, then it is finished off on a real charcoal grill. I liked it better than Max's.

Today I was in the mood for some North Jersey Texas Weiners. I went to 3 of my favorites, The Hot Grill, Libby's, and Pappy's Diner in that order.

The Hot Grill was good and consistent as always. Their chili is always tasty and hot as are the dogs.

Libby's dogs (Thumann's for deep frying) were tastier than the Hot Grill. The chili was a little thinner and had a little more tomato flavor than the Hot Grill. I liked the chili a little better at Hot Grill. At Libby's, the Texas Weiners are $1.90 for a regular size (about 8 to a lb) and $2.05 for large, which is about 6 to a lb. I'd go for the larger dog.

Pappy's Diner, which I've mentioned in past posts, has a great chili. Zesty, tangy, and with a spiciness that catches up with you. My favorite chili out of the three. The dogs used are also Thumanns for deep frying, like Libby's. I forgot to mention that Hot Grill switches off between Sabrett beef/pork and Grote & Weigel.

My one complaint about Pappy's is that on prior occasions, there was only one woman (the owner) waiting on people. The service was so slow that it prevented me from coming back. Today, there was another woman working and a help wanted sign outside. I didn't have to wait long at all this time.

All three places make a great North Jersey (deep fried instead of grilled with a thinner chili) Texas Weiner.

I live near Brick, I'll have to check it out.

DPuro329

quote:

Originally posted by bt539

went to what i thought was father and sons the other day for the first time only to see it being called "mannys" ok ,i saw the texas weiner sign and had to try it.ordered two dogs up and i thought they were pretty good. however id still like to try father and sons dog. where are the located fom the old place??

Father & Sons is on St. George, ca. one block off Stiles (toward Elizabeth) kinda opposite the Magnavox store (if that is still there). Limited hours, great dog.

Actual address is 902 W St. Georges ave.for Father and Sons. Park across the street but be careful crossing ,its a busy street.

Hello all ,
4th Annual Jersey Hot Dog Tour will be visiting on Sept 15th .
Say hello for us , and tell them to get the chili cooking

Benzee

My wife, who enjoys a hot dog when the mood hits her, asked me to take her to Tony's Truck in Newark. They are known for their excellent dirty water dogs. Their hot onions and chili are popular. I was only too happy to oblige. I don't eat onions but do like the dogs and chili. Tony's serves an all beef Golden D brand that is tasty and a little less spicy and a little more smoky than Sabrett. If you remember, Tony's was quite popular on last year's hot dog tour despite the 2 owners not wanting publicity.

I spoke with one of the owners (not Tony) and mentioned last year's Tour. He stated that he would love to have us back again so long as the Tour is not mentioned in the newspaper. The owners are worried about publicity and the possibility of being robbed. I told him that he won't have to worry about it this year as Tony's is not on the itinerary.

The dogs were fine as usual. I had 2 with just mustard and one with chili. Pat had one with chili and one with hot onions. Out of curiosity, I drove a little way to Chris's Red Hots, another hot dog truck located nearby. The reason was to have my wife compare the hot onions at Tony's to those at Chris's, which was named as having the best hot onions by the Munchmobile S.W.A.T. Team last summer. Tony's onions are wildly popular and perhaps more well known.

I had a chili dog which had a decent meaty chili. A little thicker, but less spicy than Tony's. I liked Tony's a little better, but Chris's was fine. Chris's serves a skinless 11 to a lb Sabrett, while Tony's serves a 10 to a lb natural casing Golden D. As for the onions, my wife said they were much hotter (spicy) than Tony's. She also preferred them to Tony's, as did most of the Munch Team. If you like hot onions, Chris's is the place. At least according to my wife and the S.W.A.T. Team.

Hey John ,
Great trip report from Tonys Truck .
Still cannot understand why they would not want the business .
Got to figure the criminals already know he is popular , a motorcoach there for 25 - 30 minutes on a Saturday is not going to change that I think.
So be it .

Benzee

terrie l,

Hiram's serves a very good dog, and if I remember, a decent mustard as well. But the dog is not all beef; it is a beef and pork mix. They use the Thumann's dog for deep frying which is close to 80% pork. A great place with a great atmosphere; it's actually a small bar too. I think you'll enjoy Hiram's.

I just moved to northern Jersey and love hot dogs. I haven't eaten many in the last 10 years because I lived in Jacksonville, FL , truly a food wasteland. I am originally from the hot dog capital of the world, Chicago . What is the big fuss about jersey dogs? I don't get it.I have tried many places listed on the forum and have not been impressed. I will say that the quality of the dogs is superior to Chicago ,where most often, mediocre Vienna's are served. In Chicago, the best dogs are Leon's, but they are hard to find. The problem in Jersey is the hot dog preperation and ingredients. How can anyone serve a deep - fried hot dog!! ( ugh) or a griddled hot dog (doubled ugh with a straight face!!

The local take on a chili dog is somewhat unique and better than the Cinci version. Jersey is not a hot dog culture. Unlike Chicago, where there is a dog stand on every corner, here there just aren't that many.

Now if I can only find a decent italian beef place!!

bigd,

Welcome to Roadfood and to North Jersey. I think quite a few people here might not agree with you regarding where the hot dog capital of the world is. I say North Jersey. Chicago may have a stand on every corner, but then again, so does Manhattan. In fact there are more carts in New York City than there are hot dog stands and establishments in Chicago. But even they are not indicative of the variety to be had in New York State. The Hudson Valley is home to many fine hot dog eateries providing a number of different types of dogs including "coneys" and "white Hots". They also have a number of Greek owned joints making excellent chili on premise.

You ask, "what is the big fuss about Jersey Dogs?" I would say that there are quality franks available from commercial producers like Best, Sabrett (originally a Jersey dog) Thumann's and Shickhaus, and the many European butcher shops throughout the state that make their own, as well as a variety of hot dog styles and types. In Chicago there is one basic type of hot dog referred to by many as a "salad on a bun". And over 80% of all hot dog establishments use one brand of dog, Vienna Beef. Don't get me wrong. I think Vienna is pretty good, but milder than the quality all beef dogs available here. But better suited to blend in better with all the ingredients included in a Chicago Hot Dog. A spicier dog like Best or Sabrett would throw everything out of balance.

I've had Leons. It is a good dog, but a beef/pork blend, which is different than Vienna, David Berg, Red Hot Chicago, Best, Sinai 48, and other popular brands from Chicago which are all beef.

Here in North Jersey we have quality dogs that are deep fried, griddled, boiled, steamed, charbroiled, and sometimes prepared more than one way. Admittedly, deep fried pork dogs may be an aquired taste. Rutt's Hut is perhaps the most well known Jersey hot dog joint, even though there are a few others that sell more dogs. They serve a special pork based dog that is made for deep frying. People swear by this dog. Have you seen the PBS special "A Hot Dog Program"? Rutt's is featured in it and always makes those "best of" lists. But many people hate this dog. A beef dog tastes good fried. Ever have an Italian Hot Dog? Only found in a few counties in Jersey. Fried beef dogs topped with peppers, potatoes, and onions placed in pita shaped pizza bread. Quite a history in North Jersey of the Italian Hot Dog. Not to mention the Texas Weiner. Or the dirty water dog. You are just plain wrong when you state that New Jersey does not have a hot dog culture. Check out The Great American Hot Dog Book by Becky Mercuri. She discusses the different regional styles throughout the country, including of course, Chicago.

You ask how anyone can serve a deep fried or griddled dog with a straight face. Are you aware that the most well known hot dog stand in the country griddle fries their dogs? I'm talking about Nathan's of course, which many people consider the quintessential American hot dog. A deep fried pork based dog may be an aquired taste, but to me so was a Chicago hot dog. A guy from Chicago opened J's Beef serving authentic Chicago dogs and Italian Beef. It took awhile but I finally acquired a taste for the Chicago hot dog and began to appreciate the nuances of this style. But it is just one of many. Let me suggest that you try some of the Jersey places again before you write them off. Which ones did you go to?

J's Beef closed temporarily. The owner is looking for a new location. I'll let you know when and where he will be opening when I find out. He served a great Chicago dog as well as Italian Beef sandwich. In fact, he was recogized by the president of Vienna Beef for his authentic Chicago dogs.

Has there ever been a better post on Roadfood, than the one above?

BigD... you need to book a seat on the next tour.

Read through all the posts in this thread and then read the tour thread http://www.roadfood.com/Forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10337

Big D ,

We will save you a seat on next years Hot Dog Tour .
Dare to experience the wonders that are Jersey Hot Dogs !!!

Benzee

Hey jersey folk... I'm on a mission, hope someone can help me. I lived in South Jersey (In Thoms River) back in 1991. My boyfriend (at the time) took me to a hot dog joint somewhere in that area, best damn hot dog I have ever had. It had potatoes, onions, spicey deli mustard, and a bunch of other stuff. (Sorry memory has faded after all these years). I need help from you hot dog guys in finding out the name of this place and if its still there. I need to know what the hell they put on their dogs. I seem to remember Fisher Blvd. notsure if thats the way to get there of if thats where it was. Sorry I can't be more specific. Any help you can offer would be a charm. Thanks!

I used to live in Thoms River (early 90's) and I went to a hot dog joint, Not sure maybe Jo Jo's I NEED TO KNOW WHAT THEY PUT ON THEIR DOGS!! I have been craving one since! Anyone know if there are still in business? Can't seem to find em on the web. HUNGRY AND HELPLESS IN Florida!!

Twingle,
Odds are you speak of JoJo's Italian Hot Dogs. Here's the address and phone number. P.S. They're closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

2039 Route 37 E
Toms River, NJ 08753
Phone: (732) 270-9720

For a review by hot dog aficionado John Fox, whilst serving with The Star-Ledger Munchmobile SWAT Team, see his post of 11/19/2006, on page 19 of this thread.

The Bear

Hi Everyone,
I was driving on route 28 near the Bound Brook/Bridgewater border, just east of route 287 and I noticed that Amazing Hot Dog is opening a new location. The sign said coming soon, not sure when that will be though, I drove by quickly. Just thought some of you might be interested.

Dave

Good catch, Dave. Here's the latest on that.

http://amazinghotdog.com/_wsn/page14.html

The Bear

Hi all! New to the group but always a fan of hot dogs.
I recently broke my ankle so I was sitting here reading everyones posts for the last hour or so..
It's nice to find a group as passionate about roadfood as me.
Please let me know how to join these roadtrips you go on.

As I read this forum (I went back about a year) I was intrigued by the fact that the Riverview East in Elmwood Park is never mentioned. The joints all around it are reviewed over and over again but I can't recall seeing Riverview East anywhere.
Is there something I should know about? I've been going there since I was a kid (too long ago)and have seen owners change but the dogs keep coming out.
I hope that some of you can give your opinions on the place so that I can better gauge who has the same likes/dislikes as me.

Thanks for all the insight on the hot dog places in NJ. I just printed myself a list of all the mini reviews to keep in my truck.
It will make for some tasty side trips in the future.

That's great news about AHD opening in BoundBrook/Bridgewater. That will make a perfect stop on my way back from Bridgewater Costco to Scotch Plains. Of course then I will have to decide whether to get a very good dog and a coke for $1.50 at Costco or an excellent dog and coke at AHD for a lot more. And both those places have very good fries as well. Oh the choices we have to make! --Ken

Jimmy Buff's will be serving their signature Italian Hot Dogs at the new Prudential Center in Newark.

http://www.nj.com/news/ledger/index.ssf?/base/news-12/1192249661216030.xml&coll=1

<<Al's Sabrett cart. It is located at 92nd street and 7th ave. in brooklyn, by victory memorial hospital, and across from poly prep school.>>

Great timing. I saw this early this morning and I was heading to Brooklyn today anyway. I came up to the 92st Exit on the Expressway at about 11:30 AM so I decided to make a stop. Great Sabrett dogs, had one with onions (sweet and excellent) and one with Chili (Mild but flavorful). Thanks for the tip, among the best cart (OK it's really a truck) Hot Dogs I've had. I didn't try anything else but yes, he has quite a menu.

I hadn't been on that block since my daughter was born at Victory Memorial almost 24 years ago. I'm sure there was a hot dog truck there back then also, but I don't remember anything about it. --Ken

Hi guys!
I just recieved some coupons in the mail for Danny's Dogs in Garfield. It's a new one to me and I was wondering if anyone has been there yet.
The ad says that it's "The Only Hot Dog Restaurant in New Jersey" so they must be selling hallucinogenics there too. LOL


Danny's Dogs
100 River Drive
Garfield, NJ

(I'm wondering if it's the old Swewart's Root Beer location.)

RCS

Don't know if it's the old Stewart's location, but I have been there once before. Tiny little place serving small 11 to a lb boiled Sabretts. Very run of the mill. They also have a thick, overly spicy chili. I would stop by if I was nearby and had coupons, otherwise I wouldn't go out of my way. There are much better.

For those of you interested in the mini tour to Charlies Pool Room on Monday Nov 12, (Veterans Day) the owners will be opening exclusively for us. See details on the Misc Food Related Forum under the Tour thread.

Someone I know who lives in Florida most of the year will be returning to Jersey for a weekend. He wants to go to Jimmy Buff's in East Hanover for the first time. I will be meeting him between 12:00 and 1:00 on Saturday, Oct. 27. Anyone who wants to join us, please feel free to stop by. We would be happy to meet you there. The back room isn't reserved for that day, so we can meet up there. Feel free to bring some beer if you wish.

I finally found myself on Route 10 recently and decided to check out Jimmy Buff's East Hanover location. Although I enjoyed the Italian hot dog I have one complaint. The overall quality of the sandwich was compromised by the unmistakable taste of canned pepper strips that were slightly past their prime. Unfortunately every Italian hot dog place seems to use the canned peppers.

I have been working in the very heart of Princeton, NJ for over a year now and can't believe that in this busy, little, college town, I can't find one Hot Dog place. When I ask, I am referred to Wawa, so I know there is a problem here. A few greasy places that appealed to me have Hot Dogs on the menu, but, the dog is not their focus or specialty. This place is a gold mine waiting to be tapped. If anyone has a suggestion, PLEASE let me know. If it is walking distance from PU, that would be best, but a short drive is doable for a lunch time Dog crave.

Also, I was working in New Brunswick and they have a little shack of a place serving up good Dogs. It's called Tido's, and it is on Easton Ave. It is worth checking out, I have never been there without a line but it moves fast and the fresh cut fries are great!!!

JakerDog: The only place in the area that I could recommend would be Stewart's Root Beer on business Rte 1 south in Lawrenceville. Decent chili dog and other drive in standards.

Anyone else catch Anthony Bourdain on the Travel Channel yesterday?
Great segment at Hiram's in Fort Lee. Got me hungry for Hiram's.

He also hit Satin Doll's (Lodi) and Gencarelli's Bakery (Bloomfield) with Mario Batalli.

I recommend that you see this episode when it airs again. Don't miss the end of the show. It was hilarious!

I happenned to see the show yesterday. Hiram's was featured in the first 5-10 minutes. I'll have to watch it again since I turned it off after the segment on Hiram's.

Anyone interested in joining me and a friend this Saturday at Jimmy Buff's? We will be meeting at 12 noon at the East Hanover location. Feel free to bring beer if you wish.

eggsactly - thanks for the reply. I can't believe it. There are so many people on the street and lots of little store front shops. A HOt Dog place would do well, really well considering PU is right there. I can't do the Wawa Dogs so the search continues. Let me know if you think of anything.

quote:

Originally posted by eggsactley

I finally found myself on Route 10 recently and decided to check out Jimmy Buff's East Hanover location. Although I enjoyed the Italian hot dog I have one complaint. The overall quality of the sandwich was compromised by the unmistakable taste of canned pepper strips that were slightly past their prime. Unfortunately every Italian hot dog place seems to use the canned peppers.

The first time I visited Jimmy Buff's in East Hanover Jim let me take a look behind the counter to see his equipment, namely the tilted steel pan, griddle, and charcoal grill. While back there I saw peppers being taken out of the back to be cooked. They weren't from a can. Now this was in February I believe, so it's possible that he could have switched, but I haven't tasted anything that I would guess is canned peppers. They've tasted fresh and good every time I've been there. I happened to speak with Jim yesterday and asked him. He told me that he uses fresh, not canned peppers.

I don't know of any places serving Italian Hot Dogs that use canned peppers though I suspect there may be some. When I went to Dickie Dees with the Munchmobile last summer, the peppers were hard and tasted like they could have been from a can. Certainly not as flavorful as other places. Again I'm not sure if they were canned. Another member thought for sure they were.

Hi everyone,
I went to a sabrett truck on Route 31 in Oxford the other day. It's called Red's Hot Dogs and the dog I had was pretty good. The homemade chili was nothing special, but the dog was good. The owner makes homemade hot onions which I'll have to try another time. Anyway for anyone who's in Northwest Jersey and interested, the truck is on the Northbound side of Route 31 a few miles north of the Washington Twp. in Warren County, or about 10-15 minutes away from Hot Dog Johnnies.

Dave

Jaker, I'm also in Mercer County (Yardville) and as far as I know, there's nothing by way of good dogs in this county. And I think most Roadfooders kinda skip over Mercer as a result. There is a great place called Fame in Hamilton that may do a great dog, based on the fact they do everything else great. I'll try it this weekend and post my findings.

Had the Italian hotdog at Stewarts in Gillette, NJ the other day. Not bad at all, would get it again. What was especially good was the french fries, not sure if it was the oil mixture they used but they were exceptional. Of course Stewarts has great root beer in frosted mugs too. Good lunch.

Have lived in Jersey for all my 47 years & have loved hotdogs since I can remember. I am still on the lookout for new places to try. This site is great and I will tell you that the folks here who talk about NJ hotdogs are not steering you wrong.

Here's what a hotdog in NJ means to me: when I was in grammar school my dad used to pick me up at lunch hour & we'd grab lunch at Spiros lunch wagon in Bayonne. Spiros was always parked under the NJ Turnpike underpass on Avenue C. I'd have 2 sabretts with mustard, maybe kraut. My dad would have Spiro's meatball sandwich which was served on half a pizza bread. We'd eat lunch in the family Rambler parked under the overpass. Remember how the car glove compartments used to open up so you could use them for a drink tray? My drink was always a Yoohoo or a Cotts cream soda. Remember drinking out of paper straws? And if I was ready for a third dog, my dad was always good for it. Thinking about it, I can feel the cool air under that overpass & I can taste that dog right now. I would give anything share another hotdog with my dad, rest his soul. Think I'll buy my son a dog tomorrow at the Galloping Hill Inn after we get our haircuts...