For A Winning Weiner, Don't Boil—Grill

As you enter The Weiner's Circle at night you're most likely to be greeted with a warm welcome like, "Wachyouwantbitch?" from the imposing, large, African-American woman behind the counter. Roberta "Poochie" Jackson does not share Danny Meyer's hospitality philosophy. An innocent request for a drink can result in Poochie giving you a complimentary "chocolate milk shake" with the often equally rowdy patrons cheering and wondering if they're in a hot dog joint or a topless bar.

If you're not too intimidated to order, the move is a double char dog with everything. The traditional Chicago hot dog is fairly represented with one exception. A Vienna Beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun is "dragged through the garden," that is with mustard, raw onions, neon-green relish, pickle spear, tomato slices and celery salt.

The Weiner's Circle — 2622 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL