I grew up in Bahama, NC, just outside Durham, during the 60s and 70s. My earliest foodie memories revolved around hot dogs, and while I was growing up, it wasn't a hot dog if it didn't have mustard, slaw, chili, and onions. I knew folks ate them other ways, but I was not interested in anything but what has come to be known as a Carolina-style hot dog.
My plan for this blog is to reminisce about great hot dogs I've known in the past and to review hot dogs as I encounter them today. Though I grew up with the Carolina-style dog, my tastes have expanded; I've tried some unique combinations, and I've tried dogs in several places in the US as well as one or two in France and Egypt.
I've also developed an affinity for Southwestern food: tacos, burritos, and most especially, the New Mexican Green Chile Cheeseburger. With that in mind, the occasional musing on Mexican food will be on topic.
Hope you'll join me in the quest for the perfect hot dog. And if you know of a hot dog I need to try, tell me about it...
If in the North Winston-Salem area you should stop by the Dairi-O but better yet good a little further north to King, North Carolina where the original Dairi-O is located. This is more authentic than the new restaurant south of Rural Hall. Buttered and grilled buns. Find them here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dairi-O-Restaurants/178368118843324
ReplyDeleteThen for a real utilitarian hot dog experience travel to the town of Pilot Mountain to the Sandwich Shoppe on Main Street. Known to the locals as the Squeeze Box or Preacher's, Willard & Wilmoth Sandwich Shoppe will be a real treat. Only 8 to 10 stools in the place. Half the fun is watching how they work the small grill to get orders out. Enjoy! Look forward to your reviews of these places.
Thanks, Karl. These both sound like wonderful experiences. I'll definitely check them out. I used to spend some time on Sauratown Mountain when I worked for UNC TV, and a friend from those days recently mentioned the Dairi-O on Facebook. Needless to say I was intrigued. Several friends have also mentioned Bill's in Little Washington, and I plan to write about Paul's Places near Castle Hayne, outside Wilmington. Thanks for reading!
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