Today I got my friend Rich to have a hot dog lunch with me. The plan: take him to Blackie’s and Capitol Lunch to see who he thinks is the best between the two that are at the top of my list.
We hit Blackie’s first. His eyes lit up. Blackie’s just from the road promises a great hot dog experience. The parking lot was filled, but with all cars coming and going we were able to park. As soon as we walked in and saw the people sitting on the stools, and people standing behind them ready to order (I’ll take 6 dogs,” one man said) and others with their dogs already loading them with condiments, Rich turns to me and says he wished he could bring his 90 year Dad there. He and his Dad used to go to hot dog places when he was a kid and his Dad would love this place. I ordered two “well” for us, and we had them in just a couple minutes. Rich put mustard and the spicy black relish on his and I put the spicy relish and then in bravery, just a dad of the mustard on the end. We took seats in the table section. I could tell Rich loved his dog and I loved mine --even with the mustard. Next time I will put more mustard on it.
My dog tasted so good, I didn’t think Capitol Lunch could top it.
At Capitol Lunch, Rich got the works. The dog with their famous meat sauce, onions and mustard. I got just the meat sauce and onions. Took two bites before I took a picture.
Like Blackie’s both places have light warm buns and smallish dogs. Both use Martin Rosol pork and beef blend. Rich liked Capitol too, but Blackies was by far his favorite.
If I had to vote just based on today, I would have to vote Blackie’s, too. I’ve been going to Capitol Lunch for 30 years so I don't know if I could ever vote for them not to be tied at one, but on this day, that Blackie's dog was most excellent.
Heading back to the hospital, Rich said he felt like he could have another dog. I told him what I often feel. “When I order one, I wish I had ordered two. When I order two, I sometimes wish I’d only ordered one.”
I could have eaten a third dog,but the two I had --one from Blackie's and one from Cappy’s were a great lunch and my belly felt just fine.
Day 94 --a great hot dog day!