Hillbilly Hot Dogs, a small, family-owned hot dog joint in Lesage, West Virginia, has been a local favorite for decades. But it wasn’t until the restaurant was featured on the popular Food Network show Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives that it gained national attention. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Hillbilly Hot Dogs and its appearance on the show.
A Brief History of Hillbilly Hot Dogs
Hillbilly Hot Dogs was founded in 1999 by Sonny and Sharie Knight. The couple had a passion for hot dogs and wanted to create a unique dining experience that would showcase their favorite food. They started small, serving hot dogs from a cart at local events and festivals. But it wasn’t long before their popularity grew, and they were able to open their own restaurant.
The restaurant quickly became a local favorite, with customers raving about the unique hot dog creations and the friendly service. But it wasn’t until the restaurant was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives that it gained national attention.
What is Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives?
Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives is a popular Food Network show that features host Guy Fieri traveling around the country in search of the best comfort food. The show has been on the air since 2007 and has become a favorite among foodies.
Each episode features Guy visiting three different restaurants, where he samples their signature dishes and learns about the history and culture behind the food. The show is known for its fun and lively atmosphere, and Guy’s enthusiasm for trying new foods.
Hillbilly Hot Dogs on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives
Hillbilly Hot Dogs was featured on Season 10 of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, in an episode titled “Windy City Hot Dogs.” The episode originally aired in 2010 and featured Guy visiting three different hot dog joints in the Midwest.
During his visit to Hillbilly Hot Dogs, Guy sampled several of the restaurant’s signature hot dogs, including the “Hillbilly Dog” and the “Chili Cheese Dog.” He also met with the owners, Sonny and Sharie Knight, and learned about the history and culture behind the restaurant.
What Did Guy Fieri Think of Hillbilly Hot Dogs?
Guy Fieri was impressed by the unique hot dog creations at Hillbilly Hot Dogs. He raved about the “Hillbilly Dog,” which features a hot dog topped with chili, cheese, and coleslaw. He also loved the “Chili Cheese Dog,” which features a hot dog topped with chili and cheese.
But what really impressed Guy was the friendly service and the welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant. He praised the owners, Sonny and Sharie Knight, for creating a unique dining experience that makes customers feel like family.
The Impact of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives on Hillbilly Hot Dogs
The appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives had a significant impact on Hillbilly Hot Dogs. The restaurant saw a surge in popularity, with customers coming from all over the country to try the unique hot dog creations.
The restaurant also received a boost in sales, with revenue increasing by over 20% in the year following the episode. The owners, Sonny and Sharie Knight, were able to expand their business, opening a second location in nearby Huntington, West Virginia.
What’s Next for Hillbilly Hot Dogs?
Hillbilly Hot Dogs continues to be a popular destination for foodies and hot dog lovers. The restaurant has expanded its menu to include new and unique hot dog creations, and the owners are always looking for ways to innovate and improve.
In recent years, the restaurant has started to gain attention from other food critics and bloggers, who have praised the unique hot dog creations and the friendly service. The restaurant has also been featured on other Food Network shows, including “Man v. Food” and “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives: Best of the Best.”
Conclusion
Hillbilly Hot Dogs is a unique and delicious destination for hot dog lovers. The restaurant’s appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives helped to bring national attention to the small, family-owned business, and the owners have been able to expand and innovate in the years since.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a unique dining experience, Hillbilly Hot Dogs is definitely worth a visit. With its friendly service, welcoming atmosphere, and delicious hot dog creations, it’s a restaurant that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
| Restaurant Name | Location | Year Founded |
|---|---|---|
| Hillbilly Hot Dogs | Lesage, West Virginia | 1999 |
- Season 10, Episode 13: “Windy City Hot Dogs” – This episode originally aired in 2010 and featured Guy visiting three different hot dog joints in the Midwest, including Hillbilly Hot Dogs.
- Season 20, Episode 13: “Best of the Best” – This episode originally aired in 2015 and featured Guy revisiting some of his favorite restaurants from past episodes, including Hillbilly Hot Dogs.
What is Hillbilly Hot Dogs and where is it located?
Hillbilly Hot Dogs is a popular hot dog joint that was featured on the Food Network show Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. It is located in Lesage, West Virginia, and has been serving up delicious hot dogs and other American classics since 1999.
The restaurant is known for its casual, no-frills atmosphere and its creative hot dog toppings. From classic chili and cheese to more unique options like coleslaw and baked beans, Hillbilly Hot Dogs has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this West Virginia institution is definitely worth a visit.
What makes Hillbilly Hot Dogs unique?
Hillbilly Hot Dogs is unique in that it offers a wide variety of hot dog toppings, many of which are inspired by traditional Appalachian cuisine. From the “Hillbilly Dog” topped with chili, cheese, and coleslaw to the “Chili Cheese Frenchie” topped with chili, cheese, and French fries, there’s no shortage of creative options to choose from.
In addition to its unique toppings, Hillbilly Hot Dogs is also known for its fun and quirky atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with all sorts of kitschy decorations, including vintage signs, antique appliances, and even a few taxidermied animals. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a fun and casual dining experience, Hillbilly Hot Dogs is definitely worth a visit.
What is the most popular item on the menu at Hillbilly Hot Dogs?
The most popular item on the menu at Hillbilly Hot Dogs is undoubtedly the “Hillbilly Dog.” This classic hot dog is topped with chili, cheese, and coleslaw, and is a staple of Appalachian cuisine. It’s a simple but delicious combination that has been pleasing customers for years.
In addition to the “Hillbilly Dog,” the restaurant also offers a variety of other popular items, including the “Chili Cheese Frenchie” and the “Footlong Dog.” Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and simple or something a little more adventurous, Hillbilly Hot Dogs has something for everyone.
Has Hillbilly Hot Dogs been featured on any other TV shows?
In addition to being featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Hillbilly Hot Dogs has also been featured on a number of other TV shows, including the Travel Channel’s “Road Trip with G. Garvin” and the Food Network’s “Road Tasted.” The restaurant has also been written up in a number of publications, including USA Today and the Charleston Gazette.
Despite all the attention, Hillbilly Hot Dogs remains a humble, down-to-earth restaurant that is deeply rooted in the local community. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a fun and casual dining experience, this West Virginia institution is definitely worth a visit.
Can I order Hillbilly Hot Dogs online or have them shipped to my home?
Unfortunately, Hillbilly Hot Dogs does not currently offer online ordering or shipping. However, the restaurant does offer take-out and catering services for local customers. If you’re in the area and want to enjoy Hillbilly Hot Dogs from the comfort of your own home, you can simply call the restaurant to place an order and pick it up at your convenience.
If you’re not in the area, you can still experience the flavors of Hillbilly Hot Dogs by visiting the restaurant in person. The restaurant is open seven days a week and is located just off of Interstate 64 in Lesage, West Virginia.
Does Hillbilly Hot Dogs offer any vegetarian or vegan options?
While Hillbilly Hot Dogs is primarily a hot dog joint, the restaurant does offer a few vegetarian and vegan options. These include a veggie dog topped with chili, cheese, and coleslaw, as well as a variety of sides, including baked beans, French fries, and coleslaw.
In addition to these options, the restaurant is also happy to accommodate special requests and can modify menu items to suit vegetarian and vegan diets. Whether you’re a meat-eater or a plant-based diner, Hillbilly Hot Dogs has something for everyone.
Can I purchase Hillbilly Hot Dogs merchandise online?
Yes, Hillbilly Hot Dogs merchandise is available for purchase online through the restaurant’s website. The restaurant offers a variety of items, including t-shirts, hats, and souvenirs, all of which feature the Hillbilly Hot Dogs logo or other fun designs.
In addition to purchasing merchandise online, you can also buy it in person at the restaurant. Whether you’re looking for a fun souvenir or just want to show off your love for Hillbilly Hot Dogs, the restaurant’s merchandise is a great way to do so.