NYC Restaurants

Where else can you still enjoy a game of pac man while munching on a gourmet hot dog.

Stuck in a rut with mustard? Sauerkraut or relish as daring as you get? Then why not think avocado, sour cream or salsa. Those are just some of the toppings offered at Crif Dogs in the East Village. The restaurant has carved out quite a niche for itself with its naturally smoked hot dogs with names like the "Philly Tubesteak," served with cheese and sauteed onions, or the "Tsunami," wrapped in bacon and topped with teriyaki, pineapple and green onions, or a house special corn dog. We opted for the "BLT" which is just what it sounds like, a bacon wrapped dog loaded with lettuce, tomato and mayo. Having never never said the words, mayo and hot dog, in the same sentence, I was pleasantly surprised that the combination actually works. Be sure to order a side of some cheese tater tots. And wash it down with a strawberry shake or maybe a glass of birch beer.

Proud of its St. Marks Place roots, Crif Dogs also offers what it calls the ultimate in couch potato fare, "stoner packs" for stoner dudes, ranging from $10 to $40 for those still "breaking in the new bong".