As a grad of the U. of Pittsburgh, I gotta tell you that the Original Hot Dog Shop is known around campus as the "Dirty O." Now I won't say it's exactly dirty... shabby would be more accurate.
The hoagies and cheesesteaks have a great reputation, but the hot dogs are its namesake. Where else can you ask for your dog medium or well-done? But the real deal at the Dirty O is quantity - an excess of chili, cheese or onions on that dog. And the fries! A small order of fries covers a typical cafeteria tray - no lie. They're good and hot, if not the most elegant plate of Belgian style pommes frites you ever ate.
Take a place in line at the hot dog station, move on back to the hoagie and fries station, and stop at the beer station. Pretty soon you've got a trayful! When you consider the quantity, the price, the beer on tap or in bottles and the extended hours, the Dirty O is the late evening place to go for another round and a satisfying meal on a budget.
"The amount of fries you get at the "O" is legendary. This is a medium, which could easily feed 3-4 people."
Cliff Strutz
"Here is one with sauerkraut and one with chili, mustard and onion. If you ask for mustard here, you get brown mustard."
Cliff Strutz
"The grill at the O is a lovely sight; its piggy aroma is intoxicating."
Michael Stern
"The Big O is a favorite of students, night owls, and wienerheads from all over town."
Michael Stern
"1960 was a great year for Pittsburgh. Maz beat the Yankees in the World Series and the Original Hot Dog Shop opened its doors for the first time."
Cliff Strutz
