Posted by ayersian
, October 19, 2008 12:14
Inspired by the recent Albany Hot Dog Tour, I took advantage of a flawlessly beautiful New England Saturday afternoon and drove down to Connecticut to find great hot dogs. Knowing that Top Dog would be closing soon for the season, Portland was my first stop. Finding a line in front of the cheery hot dog-shaped trailer gave me extra time to study the menu. One menu special immediately spoke to me: the Cajun dog (spicy chili, New Orleans relish, pepper jack cheese). Top Dog shuts its windows until spring on November 15, so there is still time to savor this Roadfood gem:
Heading south on Route 66, I then crossed the Connecticut River and drove through Middletown to find Guida’s in nearby Middlefield. This ten-inch wiener was dressed with sweet chili and cheese, and the crunchy, buttered bun makes this dog one of the state’s best in my book:
Being relatively close to Cheshire, I couldn’t resist the lure of comparison with Blackie’s. After a quick hop on I-691, I actually found a parking space with ease in Blackie’s small lot. Mere seconds after ordering, a plain hot dog arrived, which I dressed with Blackie’s famous hot pepper relish—and bought a jar to take home:
If I were pinned down to choose my favorite of the day, surprisingly I’d pick Guida’s. As much as I love Blackie’s hot relish—and Top Dog’s condiments were equally as amazing—it’s all in Guida’s crunchy textures of grilled bun and snappy dog that will keep me coming back.
