The Search

For some reason I am always on the lookout for cool hot dog spots. I am not sure when this search began, but I think it had something to do with my Dad's appreciation of Americana (and he also just liked a good dog). The experience of finding a dive and some true Americana along the way left a big impression on me. Whenever we were going anywhere, he seemed to have a knack for discovering a cool diner or vintage restaurant. I like to think that I carry on this tradition.

(Hot dog stand on the boardwalk in Atlantic City discovered during Murphy's bachelorette party).

I first became friendly at JMU with a local restaurant, Jess' Quick Lunch. The chili dogs are great and of course I took my Dad there the first time my parents came to visit.

I remember a great hot dog shop we found in Myrtle Beach called Sam's Corner. I think their secret is a two-fold preparation process...grilling and deep frying. My Dad and I slipped in there one late night for a beer and a dog at 2am after my mom had turned in early. We shared some special father-daughter bonding moments...and probably talked about how I needed to be more careful out alone and when was I going to declare a major.

I have to say one of my favorite hot dog places is Sheez. Of course the dining experience is not anything special, but their dogs are top notch. My favorite is a dog topped with nacho cheese and diced tomatoes.

Rachel and I found a cool hot dog stand when we were celebrating our triathlon accomplishment on Bourbon Street. After watching the vendor not use gloves and pick his ear, I decided to pass on that Americana experience. But of course, I grabbed a picture.

(Lucky Dog not so lucky in N'Orleans)

My Dad found this old-fashioned car-hop restaurant near my Aunt's house in South Carolina called 'Sno Caps'. This was a must-do every time we visited.

Hot dogs can be consumed at any time! This picture was taken about 5 minutes after a wedding ceremony in Pittsburgh. The hot dog shop was conveniently located across the street from the church.

And, I finally had the Chicago dog experience after hearing a lot about it from Rachel. It was good, but they put a ton of toppings on those pups!

(Look at all of those veggies!)

Most recently I heard (from several people) about a new dog shop opening in Adam's Morgan, M’Dawg Haute Dogs. I can't wait to check it out!