The Delicious Roadside Stand In Connecticut That Will Make You Do A Double Take
If you’ve ever driven down Route 66 through Portland, chances are this quirky roadside stand has caught your eye. The bright yellow checkered cab pulling an enormous hot dog is enough to make anyone do a double take. Top Dog Hot Dog Stand is undeniably one of the oddest things that you will see along that windy stretch of road in central Connecticut. But the locals will tell you it’s also one of the yummiest.

Top Dog Hot Dog on Route 66 is an unusual sight that slows traffic in Portland. The hot dog stand is a converted 16-foot airstream made to look like a frankfurter in a bun. The cheerful tow car is a fully-restored bright yellow Checker Marathon taxi. Each is a sight on its own but place the two together and you have a landmark roadside stand that is worth stopping for.

You'll find hot dogs and only hot dogs on the menu of this funky frankfurter stand. Each dog is a perfectly steamed Thumann's Natural Casing Frank. Bite into it for that yummy little snap. Choose to top it with ketchup, relish, onions, or mustard (two kinds are offered). Or pick one of the specialty dogs for a real treat.
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When the window is open for business, the Cajun dog is a popular pick. Topped with pepper jack cheese, a sweet New Orleans relish, and homemade chili (no beans) that has a little kick, the Cajun is a wonderful blend of heat. The Pepper Dog eats more like a sandwich with fried sweet peppers and onions layered on top. But people come for miles for the hot dog with homemade sauerkraut, a tangy family recipe passed down for its fantastic taste.
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Top Dog Hot Dog is usually open from March 1st - mid-November, however in Connecticut the snow can wreak havoc with the hot dog cart opening and you might find it not ready for the season until the weather is cooperating. You can find the cheerful roadside stand at 221 Marlborough St., Portland, CT 06480. Stop by when you see the window open, your taste buds will thank you.
Have you ever eaten at this off-beat roadside stand? Which dog did you order? For even more imaginative restaurants in Connecticut where dining is a blast, click here.
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