The Hotdogger at the Davis Farmer's Market

Hamburger places seem to be all over the place... but what about the other classic American 'sandwich'? Well, if you're in Davis, Ca you can go to the Hotdogger. This little restaurant specializes in hot dogs. You can visit its main location in downtown Davis or catch them at their tent during the Davis Farmer's Market. 

Food -
It's pretty simple at the Hotdogger... just get a hot dog! Select from the original hot dog, or get a Polish, chicken, hot link, or corn dog. Once you receive your dog, feel free to pile on the condiments at their station to the side.

Purchasing a hot dog to eat isn't that common. I mean, I rarely go out to a restaurant and order a hot dog. It's a food item that I think of when I host a BBQ or go to a sporting event. The Hotdogger's hot dogs are excellent though. They are certainly not the cheap ones you find at the grocery store for $.99. The wieners in these things are lengthy with plenty of girth. It's a premium dog!

The bun is great too. If you're going to serve a hot dog as your main menu item, the bun is going to be pretty important. These buns are soft, but with the slightest bit of chew to them. They aren't something you could find at your typical grocery place. The bun does its job well without getting in the way of the meat's taste. And that's important.

For me, one hot dog will get my half full, but two would be too much. I'd say these dogs are great for a walk-around snack at the Farmer's Market, but if you're looking for a full on lunch, you may need to go for more food.

Service/Atmosphere - 
The main Hotdogger location is tiny! You definitely couldn't fit many people in there, but it's perfect for dolling out hot dogs to people hanging out in Davis. The Farmer's Market has a totally different vibe. The atmosphere is much more frenetic and there is usually at least a small line for the dogs. After ordering your hot dog you typically have to wait a few minutes for it to be prepped before you it is handed to you. When it does get to you, it's nice and hot!

Price -
For a premium dog, you're going to be paying a price that's higher than you might expect. Their original hot dog is six dollars and the price goes up from there. The hot dogs have a sporting event sort of price to them, so it's not cheap. If you're looking for some inexpensive eats that will fill you up, this is not it. What it is, however, is a treat to enjoy while strolling around on a relaxing Saturday.

Special Tips and Recommendations -
You can top your hot dog with whatever you like, but I would try the different mustards that are available. Most are common, but the Russian mustard is both sweet and spicy. It has a unique flavor that you should see if you like. The Dusseldorf mustard is horse radish based and has a little more kick than your standard mustard. The Dusseldorf is the one I like to go with!

Bottom Line - 
Not all hot dogs are the same. Yes, you can go to Costco and get one of their dogs for a buck fiddy and a drink, but the dogs at the Hotdogger bring a bit more to the table. Perhaps for a college student on a tight budget the Hotdogger may be a stretch, but I do think the Hotdogger is worth purchasing for an extra special hot dog experience!

Letter Grade

A-

Oh Polish dog, I love you!

The Hotdogger sets up shop here at the Davis Farmer's Market.

So many mustard choices to choose from!