Had a nice introduction to Chubby Wieners today. I drive past this place as I travel down Western Ave. from my place to grab meat from Fulton Market 3-5 times per week...i've always loved the name, and the awesome wiener-man on top of the building:



I wasn't super hungry, just knew I would be after my drive and didn't want to be stuck eating whatever was nearby when my hunger finally hit...so I got a basic chili cheese dog. Now, Chili Cheese dogs are an ultimate fast-food craving of mine - and I actually prefer them to not be "too creative", just made properly. On my chili-cheese, I like vienna beef, natural casing, on a soft Gonella poppy seed bun, standard runny cheese (but not over-held or heated up too quickly/hot), standard runny chili (not too beefy), fresh chopped onions, and occasionally some mustard.

This dog included all of my desires for said product, and I had a nice chat with the owner about food trucks and their new menu.


They offer three kinds of fries: Fresh Cut, Waffle, and Signature. The signature fries are hand-cut, lightly covered with a batter, then fried. The cashier told me they have a crispy outside, with the texture of mashed potatoes on the inside. That description is accurate, and they were good - but I can see why others have compared them to BK fries. At first taste, they have the same texture of BK fries - but then if you think about it, and consider that they are dipped - the taste is slightly different and much "fresher" than a bagged frozen fry. For fries, I like the classics - I didn't love the signature fries, didn't dislike them, but they were fine. I think without explanation, most people will think the fries aren't fresh-cut because of the different texture.

I will say that although my meal was simple, it was clear that it was fresh and attention was paid to detail - which always makes me want to come back and try other items. The owner told me they have a food truck, with a different menu. The truck sells gourmet sausages with interesting toppings....just like....anyone, anyone (do I really need to say it)?

They are going to offer some of the Food truck sausages in the store soon, and I'm excited to try them.

Small, Clean, attention to detail...great place to grab a dog - I'll report back after trying some of the new sausages

Chubby Wieners
4662 N. Western Ave.
773-769-1394
http://www.chubbywieners.com