Jersey Johnny's Grill, Pequannock Twp.

     Some say that judging a hot dog establishment by their mobile counterparts is unfair.  Personally, I think that any worthy hot dog vendor would put as much care into their truck or trailer as they do in their storefront since their reputation is on the line in either venue.  That said, I am providing feedback for Jersey Johnny's Grill based on a recent sampling of their fare at a promotional event held in Flemington, NJ.

     My order was for one "all the way", which was quickly understood to mean deli mustard, chopped onions and chili.  I thought that was a good sign!  They serve N/C Thumann's beef franks for which I was also thankful.  Although the overall experience was definitely positive, I felt that the chili was a bit thin for my taste.  And speaking of taste, I detected the familiar spice profile in the chili that common in North Jersey, possessing the distinct flavors of cinnamon, cardamom and cumin!

     I will add that their fries were also very good!  Crispy, golden brown outside, steamy soft centers and just the right amount of salt.  Kudos!!  BTW, if you're trying to find out more info about Jersey Johnny's, do NOT follow the website address (or phone number) you see on the side of the trailer pictured above.  They are both several years old (as is the trailer!)

Ginny's, Frenchtown

     Strictly speaking, Ginny's is not a hot dog joint.  When I moved to this area in 2007, Ginny's was more of an ice cream parlor that was expanding their menu.  Since that time, they have undergone a substantial remodel of both the building and menu (very diner-like).  They have increased their clientele further by hosting a car show every Sunday from 4-8pm.

     At first glance I thought their prices for hot dogs (below) were rather high.  Though my opinion has not entirely changed, I will say that you do get a substantial meal for your money.  I ordered the Chicago dog (one of my favorites!) and I was not disappointed.  It was a 4/1 skinless beef frank that extended prominently from both sides of a stout bun.  The condiment selection held very close to the traditional chicago dog (the the exception of banana pepper rings rather than whole sport peppers).  It was a very enjoyable meal for which I will give ample praise, but probably decline a repeat with a price tag of nearly $10.

Olde Heidelberg, Keansburg

     This was my first visit to the Keansburg boardwalk landmark since it was reopened after superstorm Sandy.  The establishment has been in business since 1934 and has seen the boardwalk transform many times.  The above picture faces the street and invites patrons in with the promise of cold beer, good times and, of course, hot dogs!  The opposite side of the building (facing the boardwalk) has a convenient walk-up window where passersby can order delicious dogs with their favorite toppings.

     They serve all beef, natural casing dogs with a variety of condiments.  I opted to order one "all the way" (with brown mustard, chopped onions and chili) and another with mustard & kraut.  They had a nice snap to them and were very tasty!  The chili had a nice, thick texture that complimented the dog.  Unlike the soggy kraut you find at many hot dog wagons, this kraut was crisp and flavorful.  The buns were sturdy, not the limp sort that gets soggy & falls apart under the pressure of heaping condiments.  Overall I can say that this restaurant has retained its original glory and will certainly be on my list of repeat destinations.

Oscar Mayer Wienermobile

     I learned of the scheduled appearance of the famous Oscar Mayer Wienermobile in the (not so) nearby town of Sparta,NJ.  As I was planning a trip to visit my son in Albany on the same day, and the standard route would bring me within 20 minutes of the attraction, I couldn't say "No"!!  I decided not to have my usual pre-trip meal as I was excited to sample an Oscar Mayer wiener direct from the Wienermobile itself!

     I actually arrived at the venue right behind the star vessel and followed it into the parking lot.  Excited as a little kid, I was first in line to see the wondrous interior and learn more about its history.  I have to say that the biggest disappointment was that THEY DO NOT SERVE HOT DOGS!!!

     Not one to let a bump-in-the-road get me down, I happily donned the available "wienerwear" and posed for a portrait in front of this American icon.  As an added bonus, I did receive an official wiener whistle keychain as a momento!  Now I need to go and find someplace to satisfy my craving!!!