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| - Dan's Dogs is the kind of place you go for the experience. Just off the square, this is the quintessential 50's diner, complete with black and white tiled floor, mirrored walls, paneled bar, Formica tables, and a horribly garish pink and green color scheme. It's a great place for kids-they have a collection of dog-eared toys and children's books, a vintage Pac-Man machine, and a real record-flippin' jukebox that pumps out Puff the Magic Dragon with disturbing regularity (customer choice). But don't get me wrong, I've seen adult couples come decked in full 50's regalia just to photograph themselves sipping a milkshake through two straws.
Dan's claim to fame is, of course, the wide array of hot dogs with cutesy names and topped with almost anything imaginable, from the plain Red Baron to the infamous "Deputy Dawg", slathered with, yes, peanut butter and jelly. While the Deputy Dawg may be only for the brave, there are dogs to suit any taste, from my personal favorite, the Pizza Dog, to the Nacho Dog and the Underdog (BLT style). And while the list of hot dogs goes on and on in tiny print, a substantial portion of the menu is also devoted to burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads-my mom lives for the chicken taco salad. Friday nights also happen to boast perogies and all-you-can-eat fish fry. Beverage choices include a fair selection of milkshake flavors, root beer served in frosted mugs, or a personal favorite of mine, the creamsicle float with orange soda, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.
Trust me, the service can be hit or miss, especially as it tends to get crowded on Friday nights (especially in the summer during Rally in the Alley) and Saturday afternoons, but it's generally friendly, and despite the establishment's slight wear and tear, it's a place you need to experience at least once. So bring cash, grab a seat at the bar, be adventurous with your hot dog selection-you just might find a new favorite-and play a couple songs on the jukebox. But please, lay off on Puff the Magic Dragon.
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