Over the past month, Windsor Terrace residents
have noticed an unusual sight – people walking around with big
hot dogs topped with fragrant chili or sauerkraut sometimes both.
The source is Hot Diggity Dog, which opened on Prospect Park
West in November.
"The neighborhood loves us," exclaims owner Billy Grillas
(pictured).
The Sheepshead Bay native says his family owns the Off Shore
Diner in Bay Ridge, "So I knew I’d end up doing something
with food."
Grillas chose to specialize in hot dogs, because, he says, he’s
always looking out for the perfect frank. "You can get a
burger or a slice anywhere," he says, "but a good dog
is hard to find."
"I only use Boars Head all-natural beef dogs, and I make
all the toppings myself," he says. The most popular dog
so far has been the "Brooklyn" (mustard, sauerkraut
and house-made onions), while the "Windsor Weenie"
(a dog wrapped in pastrami and topped with sauerkraut, Swiss
cheese and mustard) comes in a close second.
At the moment, dining is stand-and-eat only, but seven stools
have been ordered. "They’re supposed to be here before Christmas,"
says Grillas.
He also offers a "Billy cheese steak" (Philadelphia
style with onions, peppers and white American cheese) and house-made
veggie, turkey and chicken burgers. But his heart belongs to
franks.
Hot Diggity Dog (263 Prospect Park West between 17th Street and
Prospect Avenue) accepts cash only. Items: $1.75-$5.75. The shop
is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm. Free delivery in the neighborhood.
For more information, call (718) 499-0008.
