My search for the best hot dog in New York continues….
It’s quite a bold statement to say you invented the hot dog. But there may be some validity to the story that Feltman’s provides.
Back in the year 1867, a German immigrant named Charles Feltman started a pushcart where he was the first to use a bun to serve sausages. Later he opened up a giant restaurant in Coney Island and one of his employees was a man named Nathan.
Nathan got the fame for his own hot dogs and the Feltman brand became a footnote in food history. Except Feltman’s is back with a vengeance.
A Coney Island historian named Michael Quinn bought the brand, the original recipe, and has the blessings of the Feltman family. He now sells the nitrate-free links wholesale and also out of a window connected to William Barnacle Tavern. This just so happens to be a stop on our Craft Cocktail Tour so it was almost too easy for me to try it.
After an intense snap, I could tell this was one seriously bold dog. Pepper and garlic flavors exploded. The taste was just one success – the other being that persistent snap on each cosecutive bite of the sausage. The warm grilled sauerkraut and homemade mustard brought their own gifts to the flavor party.
Since I’ve tried this, I’ve urged tour attendees to try it for themselves. They have never once been disappointed and all have claimed it was one of (if not the) best hot dog they’ve ever tasted.
Some historians may dispute whether Feltmans invented the hot dog or not, but there is no denying that they perfected it.
Does Feltman’s of Coney Island have the best hot dog in NY? I think it’s safe to say that it’s nearly impossible to find a better New York style frank. They did it right in 1867 and all those who’ve come after must bow to the master. 10 out of 10.
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