If you're in the mood for a hot dog, don't go to the restaurant standing at the corner of Milwaukee, Devon, and Nagle Avenues. Because ever since 1948, Maurie and Flaurie Berman have not been selling frankfurters, wieners, or red hots. Their delicious pieces of beef on a bun are known as Superdawgs.
The winking larger-than-life male and female hot dogs standing on top of the Drive-In have been a part of Chicagoans' memories for decades, including yours truly. A definite local favorite, Superdawg is a flashback to the days when girls donning skirts and skates delivered your food to your car. Through an electronic speaker system that was installed in the early 1950s, I've ordered all kinds of fun-to-pronounce menu items, including Superdawgs, Whoopskidawgs, Superchickenmidgees, and Whooperburgers! All of which come packaged in a fun box with crinkle-cut, perfectly salted, and incredibly addictive Superfries.
Superdawg is a Chicago landmark that has to be visited at least once, though I'm willing to bet that most folks will be wanting to go back for more. In your car or at one of the outdoor picnic tables, enjoy 'dawgs' the way they should be: on a poppy-seed bun formally dressed with mustard, relish, pickle, onions, and tomato. (No ketchup!) At just under $5, Superdawgs are a little more expensive than your average hot dog, but this is fun food at a fun spot.
Superdawgs are more than just food; they're an experience.
Superdawg ($): 6363 N Milwaukee Ave; 773-478-7800 (contacts/questions), 773-763-0660 (food order)
Sun - Thurs: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 a.m.
Fri - Sat: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.