Blackie's - Cheshire, CT

"We ordered six hot dogs for two people and they came on double-layered, heavy-duty plates. This photo is, of course, pre-mustard-and-relish."
Michael Stern






"Like the 'rippers' of New Jersey's premier hot dog sources, Blackie's well-done franks quite literally erupt from their hot oil bath. Extra time gives them extra snap that, in my opinion, makes the regular dogs seem a bit flabby."
Michael Stern



"The peppery relish Blackie's offers for its hot dogs is legendary. We find that a good line of mustard underneath helps more relish cling."
Michael Stern



"The previous photo, of an undressed hot dog, is, of course, ludicrous. This picture shows the Blackie's experience as it needs to be: a pair (at least) of hot dogs topped with zesty mustard and plenty of relish."
Michael Stern



"Blackie's only side dish is a bag of potato chips. I never bother with them, wanting to save maximum appetite for hot dog eating."
Michael Stern



"This is the extent of Blackie's menu. In this place, variety is not the spice of life ... relish is."
Michael Stern



"There is a dining room at either end of Blackie's. In the center is a short counter with stools. The whole front wall swings up and out of the way so dining at the counter is practically an al fresco experience."
Michael Stern