Odd post, I know. But I have this bucket list. Not a bucket list of to-do's before I die, but while I am in Raleigh. I'm not planning on going anywhere any time soon, but I want to take advantage of all of the great things Raleigh has to offer before I find myself wandering off to another state.
First up on the list, hot dogs. I've driven past The Roast Grill hundreds of times. It's a landmark in Raleigh. I had never been there before. Seems strange since I love food so much. I finally decided to take the time to go there, but why just go to one restaurant when you can hit all the great hot dog joints at once. Here's my review of Snoopy's, Roast Grill, and Cloos'.
Up first...Snoopy's
It's a drive up, grab and go spot that's open late. Serves a great purpose for those late night hankerings and is conveniently located at the end of Glenwood South.
What did I order? A chili dog with ketchup. I have to say, I love everything about this. The hot dogs are soft, the chili + ketchup combination is messy yet delicious. Could easily eat a couple of these, although one is just as satisfying.
Right around the corner, we have the Roast Grill.
It's definitely an establishment. It's family owned and has been around for over 70 years. I had a great time talking with the owner's and learning about the history of the restaurant. Grandparent's opened the Roast Grill over 70 years ago. Their daughter (pictured below) took it over and finally her son (pictured below), the 3rd generation is also there now.
A few fun facts...
-They do not serve ketchup. I had read this, but like a big dummy, asked for it anyway. I really love that chili + ketchup combination and proceeded to shove my foot in my mouth requesting it. After I requested my dog with ketchup, the gentleman above told me his thoughts on the subject and told me to get mustard instead. He turned around and I saw the words on his shirt that read "No Ketchup!" I laughed, apologized and ordered mine fully loaded. The comparison was already going to be skewed with different toppings ;)
-Roast Grill was on Man Vs Food.
-Cash Only
-They serve coke in bottles. That makes me extremely happy.
What did I order? A fully loaded dog
Chili from the original recipe from over 70 years ago, yellow mustard, chopped onions and mayonnaise free slaw. The chili was absolutely amazing. All in all, a great experience. It felt a little like taking a trip back in time. The owner's were absolutely delightful.
Last, but not least, Cloos'
What did I order? A dog, fully loaded (to keep things fair). Ketchup, mustard, chili, onions...the works. The hot dogs were very firm and sort of burst in my mouth. I've read that's how you can tell you're getting a quality hot dog. Very tasty. Oh, and the menu is huge...you can pretty much get any kind of hot dog you want including a Chicago style dog which isn't easy to come by out here! I'll definitely try one next time I visit Cloos' Coney Island.
After visiting all 3 hot dog establishments, I am torn as to which is my favorite. All three were good. If I were to choose based on variety, Cloos' is the spot. If I want to go for ambiance and overall experience, Roast Grill - hands down. But when I'm craving a hot dog, I have to admit, Snoopy's does it for me. The chili + ketchup combo is my favorite and honestly, I prefer the soft hot dog as opposed to the firmer, burst in your mouth type. I know most foodies would slap me across the head for my choice, but Snoopy's holds a special place in my heart ;)
