Inspired by our good friend & incredible Wedding Planner Mark Kingsdorf's facebook post during his layover in Chicago,we decided to focus today's Guilty Pleasure on an All American Feast, The Hot Dog! Glorious in its own right, whether it be all beef, pork or a blend the Hot Dog is as American as it gets. Devotees of this amazing food are a very loyal bunch and each city, state and region has its own claim to fame.Made famous by Nathans in Coney Island the popularity has continued to grow and the bragging rights increase with each summer. It is reported that the founder of Nathans hired men in white doctors coats with stethoscopes to eat at his carts to present the image that hot dogs were healthy and safe to eat.
Whether you choose to wander the nation's cities in search of a great dog, a fete I am guilty of, or just grill a few at home and top with your favorite condiment these quick bites bring as many questions as calories and mg of sodium: grilled, griddle or steamed? ketchup or mustard? chili or cheese? onions or relish? all beef or pork? Please let's not mention vegan or soy in this article!
A few of the great store bought products that you can choose from are: Ball Park, Dietz & Watson, Oscar Mayer & its ever popular Wiener Mobile, Hebrew National & Applegate Organic. A few of my favorites in city's throughout the country are: Superdawg in Chicago, Schnack in Brooklyn, Nathans in Coney Island, and Flo's in Cape Neddick Maine which are steamed & served with a great local relish. The question that greets each customer is how many? Never just order one or you will reveal yourself as a tourist.
Served with your favorite beverage whether it be Moxie in New England, Black Cherry in Philly or Root Beer in Chicago, this ageless creation is bound to warm the heart and fill the stomach. As far as my local favorites, my shout out goes to Johnny's Hots on Delaware Avenue, The Pretzel Dogs in South Philly on Oregon Avenue or our own Michael's Franks at Provence Catering.
