New Jersey Hot Dogs

Daniel,

            I've never been to LA. Coincidentally, my son is there now. He just graduated high school and is going across the country with a few friends. I told him that he has to hit In n Out and Pink's while in LA. So far he's been to In n Out and loved it. I know that Pink's uses an ordinary Hoffy's dog and is considered overrated by many. I told my son that he might see some celebrities there, but if he wants a good hot dog (which he doesn't seem to care too much about; he loves burgers) to go to either Carney's or Top Dog, which I've heard great things about.

I highly doubt that Carney's makes their own dogs. Next time there ask to see the sausage making equipment. I've caught a few places in this lie.

A friend of mine who opened a popular hot dog joint in Pittsburgh using Boars Head all beef hot dogs told me that the dogs at Top Dog were very similar. So without being to LA, my guess is that Top Dog and Carney's serve the best dogs or among the best.

I have been to the Stewart's Root Beer in Kearny. They use a Haydu brand beef and pork dog which is fairly bland tasting. It's fried and prepared well. From what I remember the chili was very meaty.

I know there are two Carney's in LA, one in Studio City (which is part of LA) on Ventura Blvd (in the heart of the San Fernando Valley) and one on Sunset Blvd (the "Sunset Strip") in West Hollywood not that far from the Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory. 

I'll give the guy the benefit of the doubt, and assumed he meant that the dogs are made for them specifically by a third-party using their recipe. The two stores are shaped like train cars, so it doesn't look like there's a lotta room to be making franks.  But, it's always possible he was full of it.  My Jersey BS Meter is always running!

Pink's success is the illusion of celebrity and the fact that it's been around 70 years.  Yeah, they got pics all over the wall, and the chili isn't too bad.  But, yep, it's a Hoffy dog (which can be found at the 99 Cents stores out here.)  Not the worst dog you'll ever eat, but certainly not the best.

Tail o' the Pup lives off its Hollywood landmark status, too.  Good dog, but not earth-shattering.

You'll have to tell me where Top Dog is, because I'm not familiar with it, and I couldn't find a single bit of info about it on the web.  I know HotDogSpot.com used to do an annual "Top Dog" award to the best hot dogs in LA.  Their website's out of date, but there's no mention of Top Dog anywhere. Maybe it's in a different part of California?

Interesting on their site they give the usual misleading stat about more hot dogs being eaten in LA than anywhere else.  Of course they conveniently forget to mention that this includes store-bought stuff.   I still say Jersey is tops for good hot dog places.

There's a place called Taste Chicago in Burbank (just a few blocks from my house) that serves a pretty good Chicago-style dog including the requisite neon green chili, if your son is interested.  It's on Hollywood Way and Verdugo, just up the street from Warner Bros.  The place is owned by Joe Montegna (the voice of Fat Tony on the Simpsons!), who is from Chicago.  They use Vienna Beef all-beef dogs.

BTW, In 'n' Out burgers are great.  He should get the double double with grilled onions.  If he's interested in something slightly more upscale, he should try a chain called "The Counter."  Big juicy burgers with every possible topping.  It's basically Design Your Own Burger.  You actually fill out a checklist of what you want on your burger when you place your order upfront -- then they bring it out to you.

He can check out the menu and locations at:
http://www.thecounterburger.com

And if your son's looking for something resembling a Jersey diner, his best bets are Bob's Big Boy in Toluca Lake/Burbank (just down the street from Warner Bros. on Riverside), or Du-Par's in Studio City on Ventura Blvd.  Both open 24 hrs.

I'll be in Jersey next week on vacation, so I'm looking forward to a Double Dog from Jimmy Buff's or even a Sausage from Tommy's.

Later!

Dan

I was in Oakland earlier today and passed Mikes Dog House just before the 208 ramp. Anybody been there?

The current issue of New Jersey Monthly is out today. It is the issue with the Reader's Choice Awards. A particular food (hot dogs for example) is voted on and winners are picked in 4 categories. North, Central, South, and Editors choice.

For hot dogs this year Rutt's Hut was picked for north, Windmill for central, Hot Dog Tommy's for south, and the editors picked 2 this year; Galloping Hill Inn and Hiram's. All very good dogs with the exception of Hot Dog Tommy's. Very average skinless dogs served on a roller grill. Even though South Jersey doesn't have as many good hot dog joints as the rest of the state, there are better than Hot Dog Tommy's. Maui Dogs in Wildwood are much better.

Here is the link: http://njmonthly.com/articles/restaurants/2009-readers-and-critics-restaurant-poll.html

An article that appeared in a Bergen County paper.

http://www.southbergenite.com/NC/0/2819.html

Good to see Bubba's mentioned. The $3.00 dog they're talking about is the Syd's dog. It's not really thick like the Don's dog (4 to a lb), but I guess in comparison to the tiny Sabrett it could be considered thick.

I've been to the Hot Dog House. In my opinion it's overrated. Not a bad dog, but not near as good as a grilled natural casing Nathan's. They serve a small 11 to a lb boiled Sabrett. Hot enough, but very average. They also deep fry a long Sabrett beef/pork dog. This is the same one served at Callahan's (RIP).

I haven't been on this board in months and I've been catching up this morning. Every time I need to pick up a hose or a fan belt across the street I'm reminded how much I miss George's in Elizabeth...it was the last chance for a Jersey dog before the dreaded Goethals Bridge  

7/25 - We finished our 4th Annual Tour, 2 months later than expected, but better late than never. And never again in the summer, traffic was horrendous. We started at Nathan's Coney Island as always, for the last time as well. It just takes too much time away from visiting other places, especially since we all come from PA. We managed to get to: 1) Galloping Hill Inn which was rated high by most of the 8 in our tour. ***2) Father & Son in Linden - I was looking forward to this as I've read here they have a spicy chili sauce. It was the lowest rated this time out. I was disappointed by the chili, the cayenne or chili powder overpowered the sauce, just not enough flavor for our taste.* 3) Max's - Long Branch - Excellent, the dog was perfect, being from PA we don't get the quality variety of dogs we find in NJ. The Shickhouse (hope I spelled it right) is a prime example, and  they cook it to perfection. I'm not a big fan of beans in chili sauce, but this sauce was very good. The staff there was great as well, it wasn't really busy and a couple of the ladies were happy to share some info with us. 1 of the waitresses had never had a Nathan's, as luck would have it Mitch (the M in mrkag) had a spare and brought it in for her. Good people, good food. ***** 4) The Windmill - again a Shickhouse, Ron and I (Gene the r & g in mrkag) made it down here last fall, so we brought the boys, hell we're in the neighborhood, right! Not as tastey as Max's but a worth your time and stomach space try. Their chili is a little more up my alley.*** 5) Big Dogz - (again a repeat for R & I) we really like them, 39 choices. The dogs they have made at a deli in Brooklyn, if I remember correctly from the fall. The owner wasn't there this time to confirm, however. Overall a very high rating, a couple of the lads got the Italian style and loved them. I'm chili, mustard & onions with an occasional gotta try specialty. **** 6) Charlies Pool Room - It was a long day (traffic as I said) and a couple of guys were ready to head home. We had tried to find it last year and failed miserably. This year I was insistant and what a treat. It is right on the way home for us and will probably be our last stop annually. 1st, don't plan on running in & out, you are there for a while, it's not "a hot dog shop", it's an experience, and one that should be savored. John & Joe will make you feel welcomed & John will remember each of your names. They live for hot dog tours and love to hear the stories. Don't expect a Sabrett's or all beef foot long, you'll get a 10 to lb. regular hot dog (the kind we see too much of in PA). The overall taste is exquisite, don't try to figure out what's what about it, just enjoy. We also ran into MR G who is a contributer here on Roadfood, and had a great time talking shop. Mr Fox, John speaks highly of you, as well as Holly Eats and believes people like you saved their business. Well thank you for that, it would be a shame to see an "old school" place like this disappear. Go out of your way a little a visit Charlie's, you will be glad you did. Sit down, play some pinball (that alone was worth the trip, PINBALL YEAH), chat a bit and just enjoy. We need more Charlie's in the world, and who knows maybe they'll have to upgrade to a 16" pan next year. (All their hot dogs are pan fried so be patient). ********** Thanks, until next time,   mrkag

Nice report. I definately have to get to Charlies Pool Room. I've heard so many good things about it. You said you had a Shickhouse at Windmill, I thought Sabrett specially made their dogs.
Thanks for posting it sounds like you had a great day!

Last summer, Pathmark Supermarkets on Long Island were selling the franks Sabrett makes for Windmill restaurants. To comply with a law, they had to print "Made in New York" (plant is in the Bronx) on the package.

Hello agnesrob, unless we were misinformed the Windmill serves both. I only saw 1 type on the grill, and it looked like a Shickhouse. I could be wrong. I'm sure someone will be able to clarify. Yes we had a great time as always

mrkag,

I enjoyed reading about your Tour. Thanks for the report. I've been to all of the places (and enjoyed them all) except for Big Dogz. Galloping Hill Inn is right down the street from where I live. If I knew you were going there, I would have met you for a dog. It's also the starting point for the New Jersey Hot Dog Tour.

Interesting how everyone has different tastes. The Windmill uses the 1/4 beef/pork dog from Sabrett. They have been using this dog exclusively since shortly after opening the original location in Long Branch. At first they used Schickhaus, but switched. Both dogs are very similar and prepared well at each place.

Charlies Pool Room is the most unique place I've ever been to for a hot dog. You won't find two better hosts/owners and all around great guys than Joe and John. It's a ride for me but I try to make it there at least once a year. I always say that things like service, atmosphere, ambiance, owners, etc. are secondary to the dogs served, and only add to or detract from the experience. For me it's all about the dogs. If ever there was a place I would travel to for the whole experience as much as the dogs, it would be Charlies. Even if their dogs were just run of the mill like many other places. But they aren't run of the mill. They serve a very good fried dog. I've had this brand (Kunzler beef and pork) at a few other places and it doesn't taste as good as it does at Charlies. I don't like onions so I get mine with mustard and a pickle slice. Their special sauce puts this place over the top. Everyone who has had it loves it. It's a unique topping, sort of like Rutt's special relish and Kuhn's extra spicy chili. Add that to the well prepared dogs and everything else about Charlies and you can understand the appeal of this place and why people travel a great distance to go.

Not located in a busy area or particularly easy to find. And they lost a lot of business years ago when Ingersoll Rand closed. They almost closed, but because of the internet and forums like this, people found out about Charlies and spread the word. It would have been a shame if they closed. And it would have been an example of a unique place serving a great product forced to close while other hot dog joints serving a common dog thrive because of location, past reputation or other reasons. Unfortunately in this day and age a good and unique dog prepared by owners who care is not a guarantee of success.

I'm glad Charlies is doing well and I'm about due for a trip there. Probably my next day off. Maybe some of you would like to meet me for lunch?

Hi mrkag, it was nice talking with your group last Saturday at CPR,  very nice people, and a great description of Charlies, if anyone has the opportunity it is one of ,if not the best in NJ. I can't stress this point enough, in all the 40+ years of enjoying hotdogs I have never met a pair of owners who genuinely care more about their customers and product than Joe & John.  As they will tell you, they are part of the Slow food movement, so if you plan on going, take your time and enjoy. Some of the other members from RoadFood that they mentioned fondly were Benzee,ScreenBear,Joerogo, as well as HollyEats and Pete Genovese from the Newark Star Ledger.

Can you guess where I was today.
 


I finally made it to Charlies Pool Room.

I don't normally have onions, but I had to have a Mealie or two.

I can't find anything to add except you must experience a visit with Joe and John at Charlies Pool Room.

The hot dog was great, the special onion sauce was great.

I think the toppings that make the mealie is perfect.

Great hosts.

John Fox, they wanted me to tell you that you were the first 
to sign there guest list book and I was the last of the book.

They are starting a new guest  book.

Today I was checking out  Jimmy's on the Delaware and found that the whole building was renovated. It is no longer Jimmy's on the Delaware.

Good news is it is now Jimmy's Doggie Stand:

They are making the hot dogs like they were made in the past.

They use Berks hot dog.

I'm sorry the pictures are on top, but it won't allow me to put them where I want them to go.

Hey Big G, it was our pleasure talking to you. It was nice discussing some of our likes and dislikes. That's what makes this great, everything about it is subjective. We all have different tastes. I'll be sure to post our next run and route before we go, hopefully far enough in advance to maybe meet up with some of you others. In the meantime keep those suggestions coming. Thanks from all of us, mr kag.     P.S. My son and one of his buddies are planning on trying to beat the record at the Pool Room in the near future.

PERTH AMBOY, NEW JERSEY
 
Has anybody here tried the place at Perth Amboy train station ?  little booth selling dog's and burgers. then down the street on Smith street, theres  a place called the new coney island hot dog stand.
 
train station location right side of smith st. coming into (town) amboy from rt.35/convery blvd.
 
coney island coming out of town, is on the right side, left side if u pass the train station location.
 
just asking, for your thought's

New place in North Jersey that sells Texas Weiners. The Fairfield grill on Little Falls Road, in Fairfield has been beconning me with a Texas Weiner sign has been open for just about a month or so. Haven't tried it yet, but figured I'd let other fans of the style know about it. It's just off Rt 46 East, near Passaic Ave. in Fairfield. If I get the chance before anyone else, I'll report back on it.

jdog

I'm jonesin' for some Hirams! 

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Jimmy Buff's recently received an award from the U.S. Commerce Association.

[id="role_document"]
Jimmy Buff's Receives 2009 Best of West Orange Award
U.S. Commerce Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement
WASHINGTON D.C., June 8, 2009 -- Jimmy Buff's has been selected for the 2009 Best of West Orange Award in the Italian Style Hotdog Restaurants category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).
The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2009 USCA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USCA and data provided by third parties.
About U.S. Commerce Association (USCA)
U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USCA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.
The USCA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.
SOURCE: U.S. Commerce Association

LOL.

http://spokane.bbb.org/article/all-that-glitters-us-commerce-association-awards-to-biz-may-not-be-what-they-seem-11397
 
Here is another:
http://www.stltoday.com/blogzone/the-savvy-consumer-blog/possible-scams/2009/07/group-awards-trophies-to-businesses-naive-enough-to-pay-for-them/
 
And they just gave the US Postal Service an award for being the best postal service in all of New Jersey.

Wow, do I feel stupid, thanks David_NYC for pointing out that it was a scam. The only reason I don't have the plaque is I didn't have room on my on-line credit card. Its a shame you can't even feel good about other people
recognizing your hard work without it being a scam. You learn something new everyday.

Ted Steak
AH! MY DEAR MR. STEAK----IF YOU ARE JONESIN' FOR SOME HIRAMS THEN YOU TRULY KNOW NIRVANA FOR DOGS----UN QUESTIONE------------TO YOUR KNOWLEDGE DOES CALLAHANS STILL EXIST NEXT DOOR----ALSO BEING A NEPTUNIAN IS BRENNENS REALLY GOOD?
RUSS

I'm jonesin' for some Hirams! 

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Jimmy Buff
  Its a shame you can't even feel good about other people recognizing your hard work without it being a scam.

Jimmy, what really counts are the smiles on the faces of your patrons as they leave your restaurant, and testimonials from people who are not getting paid, such as here on Roadfood.
 
The only reason I caught it is because I live in the restaurant hype capital of the country, where you see this kind of stuff all the time. Thanks also to John Fox for putting it out there for review. Something from the Postal Inspectors must have rubbed off on him, too.

Heading up to Central Commecticut next weekend, any suggestions. I've seen a couple places to go just wondering if anyone has websites so I can confirm they are open on Sunday.     mr kag

Oh yeah, good pic Ted Steak. Hiram's on the way home from CT. Sweet     mr kag

I've been to about a dozen places in Connecticut. Last time I drove to Danny's in Stratford which is just off I-95. A friend then took me to about 6 or 7 more places. I'm not familiar with the geography, but I can give you a few names.

Unfortunately my favorite Connecticut hot dog joint, Rosco's is gone. Hopefully they will reopen sometime in the future.

My next favorite would be the Glenwood Drive-In in Hamden, very close to Quinnipiac College.

Others that I enjoyed were Super Duper Weenie (which has a website) in Fairfield, Rawley's, also in Fairfield, Swanky Franks in Norwalk and another location. Search to see if they have a site. Mr. Mac's (forget the town), Doogie's in Newington, Merritt Canteen (forget the town), Capitol Lunch in New Britain and Storrs, and Blackies in Cheshire. There are others listed in the restaurant section on this site.

mrkag

Will this help 

Swanky Franks - Westport
Westport
Fairfield County
CT

Bethel Hot Dog Palace
Bethel
Fairfield County
CT
Merritt Canteen
Bridgeport
Fairfield County
CT
 
Saints
Southington
Hartford County
CT
 
Capital Lunch
New Britain
Hartford County
CT

Carolyn's Weenie Wagon
Seymour
New Haven County
CT

Windmill Restaurant
Stratford
Fairfield County
CT

Woody's
Hartford
Hartford County
CT

Johnny Ads
Old Saybrook
Middlesex County
CT

Super Duper Weenie
Fairfield
Fairfield County
CT

Swanky Franks
Norwalk
Fairfield County
CT

Rawleys Drive In
Fairfield
Fairfield County
CT

Top Dog
Portland
Delaware County
CT

Frankie's Hot Dogs
Waterbury
New Haven County
CT

Blackie's Hot Dog Stand
Cheshire
New Haven County
CT

Joey B's Famous Chili Hub
Cos Cob
Fairfield County
CT

Famous Uncle Al's Hot Dogs & Grille - Danbury
Danbury
Fairfield County
CT

Famous Uncle Al's Hot Dogs & Grille - West Haven
West Haven
New Haven County
CT

Al's Hot Dog Stand
Naugatuck
New Haven County
CT

Fred's Shanty
New London
New London County
CT

Yankee Doodle
New Haven
New Haven County
CT

Big Ed's
Danbury
Fairfield County
CT

Reye's Chicken & Hot Dogs
Hartford
Hartford County
CT

Botsford Drive In
Newtown
Fairfield County
CT

I don't know if they are open on Sunday

I posted this in the meet and greet section, maybe the right or wrong place, but.....................................................................
 
 
Since, I've been following the Jersey Hot Dog Tour, seems all trips are North East Side of the State, I see theres plenty of doggers from the the south side of the state, so, i ask, what's hot in dogs ? south of the Raritan River ? Monmouth, Ocean,Mercer, Burlington Counties ? Red Bank, Keansburg,Toms River,Atlantic City,Cape May,Ocean City,Atco,Trenton,Princeton,Middletown,Seaside,Belmar,Freehold and others............. some places have had mention, theres plenty of small mom and pop's, trucks and cart's. let's hear what's Hot in  South Jersey Dog's.
 
Maybe the next tour can head south and find some Gems in the rough.
 
 
Here it is......................................

Max's in Long Branch...Boardwalk Hot Dogs in Brick...Jo-Jo's in Toms River!

The Doodle is no more.

The Annual New Jersey Hot Dog Tour has concentrated on the North East part of the state mainly because that's where the largest concentration of real good hot dog joints are located.

There are some good places south of the Driscoll Bridge in Central Jersey, but they are fewer in number and farther apart. The Tour is an all day affair and it's just easier to pick places that are fairly close to each other. I have considered moving south and may do so in the future, but it would entail more travel and probably mean less stops.

Frankly Burgers and More in Freehold would make a great stop, as would Max's and Boardwalk Hot Dogs. Jo-Jo's in Toms River is mediocre in my opinion.

Once you get into South Jersey, there is very little. Maui Dogs in Wildwood is very good. The place with perhaps the biggest reputation is Hot Dog Tommy's in Cape May. Nothing special at all and certainly not someplace I would consider travelling that far to. Average skinless dogs prepared on a roller grill. You can get the same or better at a gas station or 7-11.

John Fox, Have you ever tried Hot Spot on the boardwalk in wildwood?  I remember them being fantastic(in my younger years)....And sometimes I was actually sober!

No, Joe; never heard of them until now. Do you know what the brand was? Many boardwalk places use Schickhaus.

Here are a few that could handle the traffic.

I believe all are open year round except Max's in Long Branch.
 

Jersey Joes   Port Monmouth
 
New England Hot Dog Company   Freehold
 
Frankly Burgers and More   Freehold
 
Boardwalk Hot Dogs   Brick
 
Zukas Hot Grill   Toms River
 

These could be alternate spots.

Maxs Hot Dogs   Long Branch

WindMill Freehold    Freehold

Jo Jo's Hot Dogs   Toms River


Just a suggestion

Thanks for the suggestions John. I believe Max's is closed for the season after Labor Day. There is a Windmill that we've already been to in Westfield. JoJo's is nothing special at all. Tiny hot dogs and bread that fell apart. Jimmy Buff's and Tommy's are much better for Italian Hot Dogs.

Jersey Joe's is good, so is Boardwalk Hot Dogs. Never been to Zukas. Never would go to New England Hot Dog Company unless I ended up near there in my travels. Any place that would use a roller grill is not worthy of a hot dog tour.

I was to New England Hot Dog Company a few weeks ago. 

They have a grill. All you have to do is ask for the flat grill.

The hot dog was tasty and hot. Their chili is good.

They added the grill about 6 months ago.
 

I think New England Hot Dog Company is also good, they have a couple of new dogs on the menu and will cook them a couple of different ways and they are not that far from Frankly Burgers and More, another very good hotdog and hamburger restaurant.

Still, you have to special request the grill. Also, this place has so many topping options and types of hot dogs that it would be hard for me to imagine everything being fresh. A true example of a place trying to be all things to all people. Doing too many things, but how many of them well? Glad you enjoyed your dog and chili though. I spoke with a couple that was on the Hot Dog Tour that live in Freehold and they were uninpressed with the New England Hot Dog Company. They frequent Frankly Burgers. Others have told me the same thing about New England Hot Dog Co.

I've spoken to one of the owners, who only confirmed my asertion that they try to be all things to all people. He mentioned that he knows Italian Hot Dogs are popular in N.J. and said that he would be adding one. By talking with him I could tell he had no idea what an Italian Hot Dog is.

Remember, this is a New England chain that has no idea or feel for New Jersey Hot Dog culture. I would rather go to a place that concentrates on one or at most a few things, gets them right, and has their roots in N.J. Unless of course it's someone moving here from Chicago and introducing an authentic version of a Chicago style hot dog.

John Fox


No, Joe; never heard of them until now. Do you know what the brand was? Many boardwalk places use Schickhaus.

 
Hey John,
 
This place goes back to my younger daze.  Hot Spot used to be a corner hot dog place on the Boardwalk, now I believe there are four of them and they are sit down restaurants.  Back then, it was hot dogs for breakfast, lunch and dinner(teenage budget).  
 
I don't know what kind of dog, but they had the best onion/peppers, made with paprika and Italian seasoning(Greek owned). 
 
I had Schickhaus at the Red Tower II in North Plainfield.  Very tasty dog.

I'll look for this place next time I'm in Wildwood. Although I'm not a fan of the Jersey Shore, I do get dragged there occasionally. Despite the sign, Red Tower II uses a Grote & Weigel griddle frank which is very close to Schickhaus.

yes......................... the blood is flowing  ..........
 
rt 9 in toms river/beachwood and lacey twnsp. i seen at least three mobile hot dog trucks and a taco truck. would've stopped and tried them, but, i was down there for a funeral. one truck had more car's in the lot, then a busy 7-11 or wawa.
 
N.E. Hot Dog co. i have to side with the Fox on this one, my first trip there, i thought the very same thing. hot dogs twenty way's to tuesday, boiled, grilled,  steamed, fried, what kind of dog? all beef , beef/pork, chicken, turkey, agnus, standard or a foot long , on and on. roll's................. steamed, toasted or grilled. It was AMAZING HOT DOG Super Sized twenty over. too much action to serve a dog. ok, there still in business. but DEEP pockets can do that. the long haul, i can't see it. (been there 3 trips). would rather a dog from JERSEY FREEZE..............................
 
what's going on down rt 1 south towards Trenton for dogs?  i have to say, what, i have found is that alot of vendors/mom and pop's and stores lack in self- promotion. the internet is a great place to be, check this site, holly and others gives people  a chance to promote themselfs, and there not doing it. C.P.R and others have found the net, and what the net can do for them.
 
another truck in Plainsboro, NETTER'S  i know many haven't found her yet.

John Sagi


I was to New England Hot Dog Company a few weeks ago. 

They have a grill. All you have to do is ask for the flat grill.

The hot dog was tasty and hot. Their chili is good.

They added the grill about 6 months ago.
 

 
The Rt 9 south in toms river / beachwood and lacey should be a good scout mission for ya !!!!!!!!!!! let us know..........
 
JoJo's is a big disapointment, there woodbridge location was best.

Dog Boss


I posted this in the meet and greet section, maybe the right or wrong place, but.....................................................................
 
 
Since, I've been following the Jersey Hot Dog Tour, seems all trips are North East Side of the State, I see theres plenty of doggers from the the south side of the state, so, i ask, what's hot in dogs ? south of the Raritan River ? Monmouth, Ocean,Mercer, Burlington Counties ? Red Bank, Keansburg,Toms River,Atlantic City,Cape May,Ocean City,Atco,Trenton,Princeton,Middletown,Seaside,Belmar,Freehold and others............. some places have had mention, theres plenty of small mom and pop's, trucks and cart's. let's hear what's Hot in  South Jersey Dog's.
 
Maybe the next tour can head south and find some Gems in the rough.
 
 
Here it is......................................

 
While I gave my reply, let me quote the eloquent reply of Screenbear, who responded to a similar question on another forum. I like his reply better:
 
"While there are some good hot dog joints south of Middlesex County, most hot dog aficionados agree the bulk of the Garden State's great hot dog purveyors are located in Central and North Central N.J. Hence, it is easier for hot dog enthusiasts from all over the state to travel to Union County to embark on the tour, rather than for the tour to come to them. While it would be great if the tour could go farther afield, time constraints wouldn’t make it feasible. For instance, this year I would have loved to have also visited Hiram’s in Ft. Lee and Karl Ehmer’s in Hillsdale…however, that might have added two more hours to the tour time. The same goes for Frankly Burgers and More in Freehold…. the latest rising star in NJ hot dog circles. Add that to Maui’s Dog House in Wildwood, a truly fine dog destination I’d like to revisit, and we’re not home until the wee hours. Fine with me…but I doubt you’ll find a busload of doggers---or their significant others---to agree. Yep, one could have just a South Jersey Tour…. or a Central/South Jersey Tour. However, you’d be eating mostly the same dog at each place…. rather than the variety that the annual Hot Dog Tour strives to attain. Thus, indeed, it is a lot easier for folks from all over to come to where the greatest concentration of great frankfurter palaces are located. And they do…come from all over. In the past they have come from Maryland, upstate NY, Pa., and as far away as Nova Scotia. As an old prospector told me in 1849, “You go where the gold is.”  

 

ok, i think this started as were to find a good Dog south of the river and down rt.1 south. looking to find the southern gem's of the Jersey Hot Dog scene.
 
then MAYBE  a jersery dog tour could be considered...................
 
i thought there was plenty of doggers(roadfood) residing and working in this part of the state. But i guess i could be wrong.
 
i think so far, all, i hear is some excuse's way the tour stay's north. that's fine,  it's really  about finding joint's, south of the river. i have to believe theres south Jersey Dog Joints that can compete with the north.  NO?

No. While there are good hot dog joints in what I would consider Central Jersey, there are very few in South Jersey. Maui's is one. I'm not in South Jersey much, so there may be some that I'm not aware of like the Hot Spot mentioned by joerogo.

When the Star Ledger asked 3 years ago for recommendations for the all summer hot dog judging (S.W.A.T. Team) even people living in South Jersey gave precious few suggestions. People e-mail me with suggestions quite frequently. Very rarely do I get suggestions from the southern area. They are more into cheesesteaks. I remember getting e-mails about Maui's (good) and Tommy's (not so good). There just isn't the interest and enthusiasm in South Jersey as there is in North Jersey. For whatever reasons.

I listed a bunch of places on the initial post in the tour forum. I'd be up for a more unofficial non bus hot dog tour of Central/South Jersey if anyone's interested. We could always carpool and caravan from spot to spot.

Dave

I'm in.

I'll start a post to see who else is interested.

Thank you, John & John for CT info. We'll let you know how we make out. I have heard of several of the ones you suggest. I hope time allows us to hit a couple. Thanks again, mr kag

Thanks John Sagi for the Hot Dog Huts in CT. Unfortunately we were only able to get to 2 of them, but both were very good. We stopped at Bethel Hot Dog Palace on our way to New Britian. The foot long Texas Weiner was grilled perfectly, but the Coup de gras was the chili sauce, a nice spicy bite and great consistency. We managed to get to Super Duper Weenie on our way home. The dog itself I thought was exceptional, the chili sauce only ok. The hot relish was good however. Thanks again for the list, we will be heading up that way sometime over the spring or summer. mr kag

mrkag

Give a holler when you're over this way, maybe we can grab a couple of hot dogs.

John

just returned from a quick run out for some dog's on this election day here in NJ,  went over to the RAHWAY GRILL, stopped at the window and was so, so disapointed , four (4) dog's sitting on the the grill, looking like they were left from the weekend,. the counter was full and the booth's had 2 empties. never opened the door, turned around and headed out for another location.
 
went over to  MUNCES at the RAHWAY RIVER park on ST. GEORGES AVE. to get my hot dog fix.
 
3 dog's with mustard , kraut and relish washed down with a SPRITE, capanion had 2 with chili mustard and raw onion , and off we went.

Dog Boss,
 If in that neck of the woods again, a good choice is Father & Son Luncheonette on St. Georges Avenue in Linden. They never leave dogs to "season" on the grill.

   Great dog, great chili, superb attention to quality control, and, more importantly, a concern that their customers are pleased.

  The Bear

Daily Record article on Jimmy Buff's:

http://www.dailyrecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200991026038

Dog Boss


just returned from a quick run out for some dog's on this election day here in NJ,  went over to the RAHWAY GRILL, stopped at the window and was so, so disapointed , four (4) dog's sitting on the the grill, looking like they were left from the weekend,. the counter was full and the booth's had 2 empties. never opened the door, turned around and headed out for another location.

Fellow Hot Dog Lovers,
 
Hi.   My name is Michelle, many of you from the "Hot Dog Tour 2009" know me as Bossa Nova's wife. 
I happened to be perusing this topic today and had to register to join Roadfoods simply to reply to Mr Dog Boss's unfortunate circumstance at the Rahway Grill. 
 
Mr. Dog Boss, the dogs at the Rahway Grill were the biggest hit of the "Hot Dog Tour 2009."  I'm sorry you supposedly saw dogs that looked days old, but if it were me, I would have gone in and asked for a fresh dog to be put on for your enjoyment.  To have driven there, looked in the window without even entering, and to turn away without trying a dog was, in my opinion, an error.    I think the proprietors of the Rahway Grill would have been just as eager to please any customer who walked in as the other joint ScreenBear mentioned.  (hi ScreenBear!)  They were so good to all 50 of us on the day of Hot Dog Tour 2009, and I think they would have been just as happy to serve Mr Dog Boss had he mentioned John Fox and the other 49 of us....or mentioned that he heard the Rahway Grill has one amazing dog.  If I sound a bit passionate on this subject, it is because the Rahway Grill had the best dog with very delicious chili.  I am typically not a chili dog fan, but I cannot wait to go back to the Rahway Grill for a chili dog.  As for their actual dogs...we went out of our way to purchase the specific brand they serve, "Hatfields 8 to a pound"  (using the hot dog savvy lingo I acquired on the tour).  In fact, I grilled some for dinner on this very night. 
 
xoxo,
Michelle
 
PS....I can take a digital pic of the dogs I cooked tonight, and they look a few days old.  Do not judge a book by its cover!  Hatfields are skinny and kinda dark and wrinkly lol....but OMG they are GOOD!!!!!!  just let me know if you want that pic, Im as happy to oblige as Im sure the people over at the Rahway Grill are.    

I so agree with Michelle on Rahway Grill.  i too, am not a chili dog person, but since the tour I have been dreaming about those hot dogs.  Do yourself a favor and go back to Rahway Grill.  You will not be disappointed.

John,                                                                                                        We'll be heading out on a scheduled run in the early spring. We're actually planning 2 runs this coming year (2010), a NJ tour in spring and a CT tour in early fall. We need to try more of those suggestions you gave us. We will keep you posted as to when and where. We do know Charlie's Pool Room will be our last stop. It's right on the way home. We'd like to get to Hiram's finally, so we'll probably concentrate on the north east. Last year was central.  Enjoy.          mr kag

MishyPoo

Dog Boss


just returned from a quick run out for some dog's on this election day here in NJ,  went over to the RAHWAY GRILL, stopped at the window and was so, so disapointed , four (4) dog's sitting on the the grill, looking like they were left from the weekend,. the counter was full and the booth's had 2 empties. never opened the door, turned around and headed out for another location.

Fellow Hot Dog Lovers,
 
Hi.   My name is Michelle, many of you from the "Hot Dog Tour 2009" know me as Bossa Nova's wife. 
I happened to be perusing this topic today and had to register to join Roadfoods simply to reply to Mr Dog Boss's unfortunate circumstance at the Rahway Grill. 
 
Mr. Dog Boss, the dogs at the Rahway Grill were the biggest hit of the "Hot Dog Tour 2009."  I'm sorry you supposedly saw dogs that looked days old, but if it were me, I would have gone in and asked for a fresh dog to be put on for your enjoyment.  To have driven there, looked in the window without even entering, and to turn away without trying a dog was, in my opinion, an error.    I think the proprietors of the Rahway Grill would have been just as eager to please any customer who walked in as the other joint ScreenBear mentioned.  (hi ScreenBear!)  They were so good to all 50 of us on the day of Hot Dog Tour 2009, and I think they would have been just as happy to serve Mr Dog Boss had he mentioned John Fox and the other 49 of us....or mentioned that he heard the Rahway Grill has one amazing dog.  If I sound a bit passionate on this subject, it is because the Rahway Grill had the best dog with very delicious chili.  I am typically not a chili dog fan, but I cannot wait to go back to the Rahway Grill for a chili dog.  As for their actual dogs...we went out of our way to purchase the specific brand they serve, "Hatfields 8 to a pound"  (using the hot dog savvy lingo I acquired on the tour).  In fact, I grilled some for dinner on this very night. 
 
xoxo,
Michelle
 
PS....I can take a digital pic of the dogs I cooked tonight, and they look a few days old.  Do not judge a book by its cover!  Hatfields are skinny and kinda dark and wrinkly lol....but OMG they are GOOD!!!!!!  just let me know if you want that pic, Im as happy to oblige as Im sure the people over at the Rahway Grill are.    

ok, MRS Michelle..................... they were busy, FRAN the owner was not in my sights, there counter help was. i live 5 mins from the grill. i was with a person that was more turned off then i was. i was there before the TOUR arrived on that fine saturday. had some GREAT DOG'S with my son. when, i do return to the Grill and FRAN is there, i will be more then happy to tell her what we had found apon our arrival to the window......................... been to the grill and had nothing, but there other fine offering's on the menu was totally satisfied. 
 
NOW, that you have my blood flowing................... this is the MAJOR problem with food in general............ places are so and i MEAN , so HOT and COLD !!!!!!!!!!!!!! Theres  No Consistency !!!!!!!!!!!!
Father and SON st. george ave. linden.................. ask for a hot hot dog just this past week, got a look like i was asking to grill it myself.  was with my buddy , who would eat and i say eat anything that is served him, and he made comments on the trip to father and son

ScreenBear


Dog Boss,
 If in that neck of the woods again, a good choice is Father & Son Luncheonette on St. Georges Avenue in Linden. They never leave dogs to "season" on the grill.

   Great dog, great chili, superb attention to quality control, and, more importantly, a concern that their customers are pleased.

  The Bear

 
who there, has the concern about what there serving ?   our server was just a nervous type( shaking like a leaf, fear's for her job), the father was on his cell (doctor's) and the son(cook/grill master) with the attiude. gave me the death look, what u saying about my doog's theres nothing wrong with my dog's...................... just asked to put a lil' bit of heat in them.................

Dog Boss,

You crack me up. The cook gave you the death look! I know who you are talking about. And he does have a lousy attitude. His nickname around Linden is the Son of Satan. I will say that the last 2 times he has been civil to me. Don't know if he's somehow changed or if it was because the owner, who has a reputation as a bit of a tyrant, was standing there. As for the dogs, most of the time they've been fine, but a few times I've gotten an old dog that wasn't hot enough.

Regarding the Rahway Grill, I've probably been there less than 10 times but always enjoyed the dogs. They close early and I'm usually working, so I don't get a chance to go often. I'm glad we included it on the Tour and I'm delighted at the positive response. But I can believe that there may have been old dogs on the grill. I say this because a friend of mine told me on Saturday that he went last week and got a dog that was old, lacked taste, and was cold. It was served by someone other than Fran or Ted.

It's too bad that every now and then you may have a bad experience. I am off Thursday and have to be in Rahway. I will probably make a stop at the Rahway Grill and if I do I'll tell Ted about what is posted here. I'm sure he would like to know. Hopefully my friend's experience and Dog Boss's are aberrations.

It's a shame when one gets the "death look" from a chef and/or owner!
Unfortunately, I guess that's why many folks go to big chains a lot , like Crapplebees..
oops , I mean Applebees...

Cause if they send something back, they know nobody really gives a darn...
there's no "chef" that will come out from the kitchen ready to beat you up!