Chef's Dog House - Newington, CT

Last weekend when most people were packing the gyms and clogging up the health food store aisles, I was thinking about hot dogs. So we headed straight to Chef's Dog House, located in the 7 Eleven Plaza on Willard Avenue. Judging by the amount of customers, it appears Chef's has a loyal following. The interior is sparse and clean, with plenty of tables and the state's largest condiment bar to dress up your dog. The menu also includes some interesting specialty dogs, as well as burgers, sandwiches and soups. We decided to try a couple dogs with kraut, a hamburger and onion rings. As we waited, a couple of guys near us dove into their Junkyard Dogs; wrapped in bacon, topped with chili, cheese and onions. Yes AND Please!

They called out our order and we headed over to the condiment bar. A simple dressing of kraut was all we needed for this trip, as the all-beef hot dog was the star of the show. I thought it was tasty, with the right amount of snap, but a little on the greasy side. HOWEVER, they serve them on grilled buttered buns and that is the ONLY way to properly enjoy a hot dog. The burger was perfectly cooked, served on a soft white bun. The onion rings were a standout, and some of the best I've had in the area. Nice thick slices of onion in a crunchy batter that held up nicely. I despise the mounds of shoestring onions that are so popular, and was pleased that someone still knows how to kick it old school.

Overall, Chef's serves up solid grub in a pleasant atmosphere. Check it out when you're looking for a little break from your New Year's resolutions.

Chef's Dog House
337 Willard Avenue
Newington, CT 06111