Downtown Hot Dog Stands

Nosh on the go for a couple bucks, and even some watery hot cider in colder weather. Hot dog or Polish sausage every once in awhile never hurt anyone; sauerkraut looks a little sketchy, but no more than the relish bin. Ketchup and mustard if that floats your boat. Pretzels. Good Humor basics like the drumstick and strawberry shortcake bar. Frequently found on major streets near white-​collar hives and tourist attractions, sprinkled amongst souvenir stands and the like.

I had a perfectly wonderful planned lunch of salmon packed away in the office kitchen. But the siren song of the 18^th & I (EYE) st hot dog cart got to me. For two bucks a pop, you get a yummy yummy yummy half smoke with chili, melty nacho cheese and Siracha sauce. Top that off with some Crystal hot sauce and you have sheer junk food lunch perfection. The lady in charge of the cart is a real sweetie pie too.

It’s break time! Time to head across Mass Ave to the best Hot Dog Stand in town, located in front of the SEIU building. See all those contruction workers in Hard Hats? They know what to get: Skittles. Or, eat two packs of cough drops and you’ll be churning out those reports all afternoon.
I know it’s frowned upon, but you should eat at a hot dog stand every once in awhile just for a change of pace. Whether it’s Snapple, cigarettes, candy, or a good old-​fashioned weiner, you can have the satisfaction of saving some money and watching the hustle and bustle of life from the eyes of a street urchin.
Just avoid the pickle relish.

God bless the hot dog carts of 18^th Street and the beauty of market competition.
The first time i was in a rush, i walked up, asked for relish, onions, and mustard, grabbed my change and ran to my car. With the $ 8 sandwich across the street (which i could practically contain in my fist) I was expecting at least a few dollars, but 5 QUARTERS!
Sure, I’m new here, I had no idea, but I went back today, different stand, same amazing deal. And the service, impeccable. Friendly smile, asked about my day, got me my dog quickly with a generous helping of toppings, and wished me well. In and out in 1 minute.
Better than i got at Corner Bakery or Au Bön Pain in the ass service.
And you know what, after checking the nutritional info on my pitiful little salad, choked with fattening dressing, or the nutritional info for that roast beef deluxe (hidden behind a display stand on my way to the employee’s only bathroom), I’d rather have the hot dog, at least I know what I’m eating (beef, pork, raccoon, finely aged shoe leather…)