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| - I knew I'd make it here one day and last Saturday, during a tour of the Pitt campus, I was provided the perfect opportunity to pop in and give this place a try without going out of my way. And I'll say it...I'm glad I didn't cross the Birmingham Bridge just for this. Still, something about it is charming and authentic and well, original. And the food wasn't allll bad.
First the good: The fries were plentiful and amazing. I realize they probably never change the frying oil but I'm sure that's exactly what makes them so tasty. And the gravy...get the gravy!! It elevates the fry experience to a whole new level. Also tried these fries with cheese; plain ol' ketchup; and bare naked. Delicious any way you go.
The disgusting: The hot dog. I'm sorry but I don't get the hype. I like my hot dogs plump, juicy and preferably all-beef. This was shriveled, crunchy, crusty, overcooked, and well...I don't know what's in a hot dog but it wasn't all beef. I realized after ordering that you can in fact order an all-beef dog, but that leads me to the next point....
The confusing: I know this is part of the charm and what makes this place an "institution" in Pittsburgh and a gripe from a newcomer is worth about a penny, but wow. The menu is super busy and all over the place...leading me to miss the all-beef dog option. And I had absolutely no idea where to physically place my order (dogs in one section, fries in another, beer/pizza in another!!!). Fortunately it was mid afternoon, not too crowded, and a polite kid behind the counter had a surprising amount of patience with me.
If for no other reason than a six pack of beer, I'm sure I'll be back at some point during my time as a part-time Pitt student.
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