Not Quite a Speed's Hot Dog, But Still Really Good

[Snoop37]

Yesterday, I just had the largest hot dog I've ever had in my life. It's larger than a Speed's dog (it was over a foot long) and the quality of the dog itself was comparable to Speed's because they were using Pearl (the type of hot dog Speed used to use himself before he retired) and of all places this hot dog can be found at Halfway Cafe (I have not heard too many kind things about this place)! My boyfriend had been telling me for so long that the Halfway Cafe in Dedham had really great hot dogs, but I don't think I'd ever heard of Halfway Cafe coming up in our hot dog debates on the board... but yes, it really was good. However, when it comes to my favorite dog in town, I still give the edge to Speed's. I order my hot dogs fully loaded and there's just something about Speed's chili that makes his the best. But, if you are looking for a huge, quality hot dog all year round-- head over to the Halfway Cafe (in Dedham at least, I haven't checked out any of the other locations).

[bostonbroad]

Thanks for the post. I've only ever had the turkey tips there, but sounds like a good reason to branch out!

[LStaff]

Thanks for the tip - a dog would go really well with the fries at halfway and since they can't seem to make a burger less than well done, a Pearl dog woud be a good substitute.

After my first try at Speed's last week, I came away unimpressed (with both the sausage...err hot dog, and the sauce) and has left me with a craving for a really good hot dog. I keep thinking about that Top Dog I had in Rockport a couple of weeks ago. May be a good day to visit my local Halfway Cafe.

[greygarious]

Halfway Cafe is a prominently mentioned advertiser on Phantom Gourmet, so caveat emptor - or should that be "canis emptor"? ;-) I recall them saying that it is a ONE-POUND Pearl frank and suggesting that it be ordered as an appetizer for a party of 4. I'd modify that to an entree for a party of 4....

[LStaff]

Sorry, but there isn't enough snobbery in me to write off some place solely due to their inclusion on a TV program. I've been a few times in the last couple of years - there's some things they do well, and some things they don't.

[StriperGuy]

Yeah the Halfway Cafe is the least pretentious place on earth. Neither fabulous nor terrible.

[MenuPorn]

Agreed. Comfort food type items are great there. Service, typically pretty terrible. But it's a nice casual atmosphere and a good place for cheap eats. The sweet potato fries are excellent.

[MenuPorn]

Who knew...I always get the pot roast sandwich but will definitely have to try the hot dog!

[CocoDan]

We go there in the Winter for a fix of steamers. And they're great. But, I've never tried the dogs. I like the idea as an appetizer.
Enjoy,
CocoDan

[Snoop37]

Just to let you know, it is listed as the "Safari Dog" under their Sandwiches section.

[TomH]

I am pretty sure the Old Magoun Saloon in Somerville also sells the one pound Pearl dog with all of the fixings.