A few days ago, I finally ventured over to the Vienna Beef Factory. Since the Vienna Beef brand is Chicago’s official hot dog, it’s odd that it’s taken me this long to make a trip over to the factory, especially since it’s less than a mile from our apartment. At first, I wasn’t aware that it was open to the public, but I must admit I found out the contrary several months ago and have done nothing with the new information. Well, I decided it was time to give it a try. I grabbed Lady Blue and peddled over to the factory, crossing my first major intersection in the process.
Once inside, I instantly noticed that there were a large percentage of construction workers on their lunch breaks, which my dad always taught me was a good sign and a clear indication at how good the food was at an establishment. There are three places to order from: take out deli meat, sandwiches, and hot dogs. Well, I was here for the hot dogs. I ordered a double dog which is two hot dogs on a poppy seed bun with all the trimmings. Chicago style trimmings are neon green relish, mustard, onions, sport peppers, tomato wedges, pickle, and celery salt. See below:
Man, it was good! We’ve been here for over a year now and this is probably the most authentic Chicago hot dog I have eaten. Which makes sense since the dog comes from the factory/corporate office of Chicago’s official hot dog. Now, I still love the other hot dog stands in our neighborhood, but the Vienna Beef factory is where I’m taking visitors who want an honest-to-goodness Chicago hot dog.
So reading that made me hungry, do they have veggie dogs?
Comment by sUMMMER — September 14, 2007 @ 10:05 am
I seriously doubt that.
But Hot Doug’s does. The veggie dog is called The Pete Shelly, formerly The Steve Diggle and The Howard Devoto (all members of the Buzzcocks.)
Comment by Hayden — September 14, 2007 @ 11:10 am
I really like the tagline for Hot Doug’s… The Sausage Superstore and
Encased Meat Emporium… What more could you want?!?
Comment by sUMMMER — September 17, 2007 @ 8:46 am
encased meat
Comment by el_daviddo — September 17, 2007 @ 8:53 am
Wait, I didn’t see the TWO hot dogs in one bun. I must try that!!
Comment by Rachel — September 17, 2007 @ 4:54 pm
Until Rachel, I thought the only comments on this post were going to be from vegetarians. As for the two dogs in one bun, it was actually really difficult to eat. I think I would go for the two hot dog special next time. Speaking of which, Rachel we need to plan to go together real soon!
Comment by Hayden — September 17, 2007 @ 5:53 pm
I was wondering what in the world a “sport pepper” is, so I Googled it and found this detailed template for creating “the perfect Chicago Dog in the privacy of your own home.” http://www.hotdogchicagostyle.com/makeyourown.php
Comment by Judy — October 9, 2007 @ 12:39 pm
Thanks for the great link, Judy.
Comment by Hayden — October 9, 2007 @ 3:53 pm
Yes, we do need to make plans! I can eat hot dogs any time!
Comment by Rachel — October 12, 2007 @ 1:01 pm