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(WATCH) Jersey Rock Video of the Week: Nick Ryan “Hell is the Highway”

Author Jersey Rock

New Single Available Now!

Nick Ryan is back with a killer new track!  “Hell is the Highway” is a gritty, rockin’ track that feels a bit more western than what we have grown accustomed to from the Jersey Rock vet.  There may be a good reason for that.  A longtime fixture in Asbury Park and the greater NJ music scene, Nick Ryan recently made a big change.  He moved to the acclaimed music city of Nashville.  Speaking of the new chapter, he said:

“I moved to Nashville in October and have been absolutely loving it.  It was a dream of mine since I was a kid, and I’m so grateful to finally have the opportunity to be here.  “

When Ryan provided us with a quote for this article, he was out on tour with Country artist Meghan Patrick, performing as her guitar player.  He said:

“I am looking forward to the rest of the year to come!”

We’re always happy to see a Jersey Rocker living out a dream.  We’re also always stoked to turn up new material.  It’s pretty clear Nick Ryan’s latest single “Hell is the Highway” was somewhat inspired by his new life direction.  And while the song would fit in very well in Nashville, its the kind of banger that would play just as good on the Jersey Shore.  Speaking of the new song, he said:

“I wrote ‘Hell is the Highway’ with Alex Bennet and Tom Briant after making the decision of leaving my comfort zone to chase a dream.  The writing and recording process was really organic, just a bunch of friends in a room making music in the moment just like our favorite Rock bands. “

The video for the new single brings a complimentary visual to some already excellent audio.  Nick Ryan said of the video for “Hell is the Highway”:

“The video is actually us tracking the song live at Shorefire in Long Branch, with very minimal overdubs.  It was a cool full-circle moment as that was the place I learned how to cut records when I was a kid.”

Written about the journey to Nashville, and recorded in New Jersey, “Hell is the Highway” is a fitting bridge for Nick Ryan’s past and future.  We look forward to seeing this new chapter unfold.

Learn more at nickryanpiescor.com!

Check out “Hell is the Highway”!

The Ultimate List Of Hot Dog Joints In New Jersey Part 1

This is the ultimate list of hot dog joints in New Jersey Part 1/

If you ask anyone where to get a good hot dog in New Jersey, you’ll get several different answers. Most of us are familiar with the famous old school joints in New Jersey such as Rutt’s Hutt, Jimmy Buff’s, Hot Grill, and Texas Wiener 1. These places are beyond iconic. They are some of the most visited hot dog businesses in the state.

Recently, I was bombarded with suggestions to re-do my Jersey hot dog list. I’m no hot dog expert, but I do love a good hot dog.

I hit the food pages on social media specifically asking the expert hot dog fans to suggest places that may have been left off last year’s lists.

I was hit with hundreds of comments, emails, private messages, and even phone calls.

It was insane!

Most of the people who reached out to me were respectful and dare I say very nice. There were a handful of people who chose some strong language while taking me to task for either not including their favorites, or for including places they deemed inferior.

I took it on the chin and remained optimistic. In this quest of gathering information and suggestions, I realized that I love hot dogs more than I thought. That requires me to create a whole new list.

Hot Dogs Of My Youth

My paternal grandparents lived in Brooklyn and took me to Nathan’s on Coney Island more times than I can count. I always looked forward to those trips to Nathan’s. Every bite was sheer delight. The snap you get the minute you bite into Nathan’s hot dog is like no other hot dog I’ve ever had during my childhood.

While at home on Long Island, my mother always bought Hebrew National hot dogs because that’s all my maternal grandmother would allow when my mother was growing up. I have since eaten at several dozen places that sell different styles and brands.

Jersey Hot Dog Joints

I want to thank Jeff Ananson, John Fox, Jason Frushon (the hot dog map guy), and countless other hot dog enthusiasts in New Jersey for the education of everything hot dogs and for sharing their endless love of all the businesses who sell them. Long Live Jersey Hot Dog Joints on Facebook. You’ve been more than helpful.

I appreciate each and every one of you.

 

Original Hot Dog List From December 2023

  • The Original Hot Dog Factory - 910 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd #3, Voorhees Township, NJ 08043

    According to expert John Fox and countless others from across the state, this place needs to be on the list. John described the hot dogs as; “An excellent Angus all beef dog prepared perfectly on the grill.” A lot of people called attention to the amazing staff, as well as all the options to choose from to dress their dogs. After looking at the menu, I find it hard to decide which one to try for the first time. I’ll revisit.

  • Forked River German Butcher Shop - 109 Lacey Rd, Forked River, NJ 08731

    John Fox and a few other folks suggested I add this great place located on the Jersey Shore. John said, “Best Butcher Shop Dog I’ve Ever had.” This business has a lot more than just great hot dogs which by the way are made on the premises. This German butcher only offers superior quality products to their customers. I know that because I am a customer. Great breakfast sandwiches and top quality cold cuts and subs.

     

     

     

     

  • Rutt's Hut - 417 River Rd, Clifton, NJ 07014

    I’ve seen so many food shows include this institution that’s been around since 1928. I hear from native Jersey folks all the time that eating a Rutt’s “Ripper” should be on my bucket list of things to do before I leave planet Earth.

    For folks outside of New Jersey reading this, a “Ripper” is a hot dog that is deep fried until  the hot dog casing cracks and splits, which led to the nickname “Rippers.”

    So I guess it’s a “Ripper Dog” with Rutt’s homemade relish for this rocker chick . Another hot dog joint that is CASH only, but there is an ATM onsite should you be low on dough.

     

     

  • Hot Grill - 669 Lexington Ave, Clifton, NJ 07011

    Since 1961 and still going strong.

    Hot Grill came up nearly a couple of dozen times in my poll.  A 63-year-old fast-food joint for Texas hot dogs, burgers & sandwiches.

    Adam had the most colorful description. “Soo good it will make you smack your momma!” Best hot dogs in New Jersey. Definitely get two dogs “all the way” with a side of fries with chili and cheese. Secret tip: get the roast beef sandwich on a hard roll with extra gravy. It’s like heaven made of tasty meat dipped in God’s gravy!”

    Adam, I want to meet you.

     

  • Jersey Dog - 77 Water St, Newton, NJ 07860

    Amelia S. wanted to make sure I knew about one of her favorite places. A Thumann’s logo is proudly displayed on the menu of these boiled or deep fried dogs. So many choices of dressed dogs to choose from. The Reuben Dog looks appealing, topped with pastrami, Swiss, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing.

  • Maui's Dog House - 806 New Jersey Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260

    According to John Fox; “Maui’s has the snap that comes from a natural casing.”  All I know is that so MANY people had Maui’s on their lists. The menu is insane! For instance, “The Cardiac” – Covered in globs and globs of cheese and real bacon. Then out of left field for me is “The Soprano” – Baby spinach sauteed with garlic and white wine, and gently topped with Xtra sharp provolone cheese. That sounds somewhat refined for a hot dog, and I’m all in.

    I still have never been to Wildwood. What is taking me so long?

  • Bubba's Texas Weiners - 281 NJ-94, Vernon Township, NJ 07462

    Stephen G, a top contributor the to Jersey Hot Dog Joints page, suggests a trip to Bubba’s Texas Weiners. It seems they’re in the process of creating a website. When I clicked the link the message revealed, “ Come in today for a loaded Texas Weiner, grilled burgers & cheesesteaks, fresh hand-cut fries.”  

    hot dogs

  • JJ's Hot Dogs - 572 US-46, Fairfield, NJ 07004

    Another favorite among the dog lovers I’ve heard from. This place is exactly what you’d expect from a place spotlighting hot dogs. Vic mentioned, that he visits their hot dog truck in Newark and recently found JJ’s restaurant in Fairfield. Same great quality hot dogs as their truck in Newark and same great price. Belly buster is my go to such a great chili.

    Closed on Sunday & Monday.

     

     

  • Chris's Red Hots - Hot Dog Truck - 248 Heller Pkwy, Newark, NJ 07104 & New brick and mortar at 478 Bloomfield Ave, Verona, N.J.

    Angelo D calls these dogs the ultimate best, and the hot onions are off the chart!  Mark’s review sums it up: “ Chris’s Red Hots! Excellent selection of extraordinary toppings unlike most hot dog joints. This is true hot dog truck experience!”

    Chris’s Red Hots opened a brand new place at 478 Bloomfield Avenue in Verona back in October 2023.

     

     

  • Jimmy Buff's Italian Hot Dogs - West Orange & Kenilworth

    I lost count of how many people mentioned Jimmy Buff’s. Established in Newark in 1932, Jimmy Buff’s is the birthplace of the original Italian hot dog. Deep fried dogs smothered with fried potatoes, onions, and peppers all deep fried in one custom made flat top and stuffed into a beautiful Italian pizza bread roll. All those flavors melding together just waiting for you to dig right in.

     

  • Hiram's - 1345 Palisade Ave, Fort Lee, NJ 07024

    Hiram’s is another iconic place in Bergen County that’s been in business since 1932. They have near perfect reviews from several food ratings sites. For every less than excellent review, there were hundreds of reviews raving about the joint.

    It’s a sin to leave Hiram’s off the list. Joseph S and many others show their love for Hiram’s by telling me that if I haven’t had a dog from Hiram’s, I should leave Jersey.

     

  • Pattie's Franks Hot Dog Truck- 1436 NJ-88, Brick Township, NJ 08724

    Pattie girl, showing you lots of love from me, Jimmy R. and hundreds of other hot dog lovers across the Garden State. Sabrett dirty water dogs with your choice of Pattie’s homemade toppings. The hot mashed potatoes and hot onions are my choice.

    Pattie's Franks Brick NJ

     

     

  • Johnny & Hanges - 23-20 Maple Ave, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410

    Paul H. laid it out for us : “Legendary hot dog spot in New Jersey if not in the nation. Nice snap and seasoning on the dog and buns that hold up to the chili, cheese and mustard. Known for their hot dog chili I got a cup to go plus some Birch Beer.”

    Some have recommended getting the Texas Weiner all the way. When they say,  “all the way”,  it means that the food you ordered is covered with mustard, chopped raw onion and their famous chili sauce.” Some folks made sure I knew about the crispy onion rings. Johnny & Hanges is another Jersey hot dog institution that’s been around since your  father or grandfather was a kid. The original opened in Patterson in 1939 and moved to it’s current location in 1998.

     

  • Dewey's Dogs - : 118 N Main St, Lanoka Harbor, NJ 08734

    Vinny L. took me to task for not including Dewey’s Dogs on my last list, and rightfully so. See, I’m learning. Fresh pizza bread for their Newark style Italian hot dogs. I’ve heard the Disco fries are a perfect side to go with your dog. The place looks awesome and it’s about 25 minutes South of where I live.

     

     

  • Lover Dogs Air Fried Hotdogs - 822 Main Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055

    Both Jeff A & Vinny L highly recommend Lover Dogs. Everyone who visits agrees how great Wayne, the owner is. The dogs  here are air fried and actually look like rippers after they’re cooked. No oil, no guilt, just good food. Proudly selling Hofmann handcrafted hot dogs.

     

     

     

  • Hank's Franks - 210 US-46, Lodi, NJ 07644

    If you like Sabrett pushcart style dogs, then come to Hank’s Franks. A no frills tiny place with big flavors. A Jersey institution since 1959.

     

     

     

  • 1785 Farm Dog - 40 Jennings Rd, Medford, NJ 08055

    A few mentions got my attention for this seasonal farm stand that will re-open in the Spring. 1785 Farm Dog provides quality meats, honey and farm goods directly to the community. John Fox was the first to make sure I showed this place some love. They serve John’s favorite beef dog from a small cart on their farm. The beef comes from the farm’s own cows. You’re not going to get a fresher made product than that in the area.

    South Jersey Food Scene on Instagram: "The question was just asked in the Facebook group where to get hot dogs. Well, there's a new spot that you need to know about. 1785 FarmDog recently opened at The Jennings Farm in Medford, offering hot dogs made from 100% grass-fed beef from Medford Cattle Farms. Check it out! https://southjerseyfoodscene.com/1785-farmdog-medford/ @1785farmdog @medfordcattlefarms #hotdogs #1785farmdog #medfordcattlefarms #southjerseyhotdogs #southjerseyfoodscene"

    53 likes, 1 comments - southjerseyfoodscene on September 11, 2023: "The question was just asked in the Facebook group where to get hot dogs. Well, there's a new spot that you need to know about. 1785 FarmD...".

  • Cruz-Missile Hot Dogs & Pinchos - 73 Gregory Ave, Passaic, NJ 07055

    A new place in Passaic serving a variety of brands including Thumann’s, Hofmann’s, Sabrett, and word on the street says Snap-O-Razzo hot dogs may be on the menu on occasion.  Thanks to Jeff Ananson for the introduction. Jeff posted that he, along with Wayne Mills and Jonathan Carvente, owners of Lover Dogs  dropped by to support this newly opened local Passaic business.  

     

     

  • Tommy's Hot Dogs - 117 Grant Ave, Carteret, NJ 07008

    Rich D loves the Sabrett dogs topped with chili. The chili here gets rave reviews. It’s a generations old recipe from Jimmy’s mom. It all started back in 1962 when Jimmy’s dad, Tommy, hit the streets on his scooter, selling hot dogs to the hungry folks of the neighborhood. They moved to Carteret in 1967 and in 1985, they transformed the family garage into the iconic hot dog haven you know and love today.

    I love stories like that.  I would love to try one of their famous Italian hot dogs. I hear they are amazing.

     

     

  • Galloping Hill - 325 Chestnut St, Union, NJ 07083

    Janet D’s favorite stop for a dog. They’ve been around since 1925! Open 7 days week from 11am – 10pm. The German style natural casing dogs are a beef & pork blend made specifically for Galloping Hill by Grote & Weigel, one of the oldest meat companies in America. The buns are exclusively made for these hot dogs.

    Voted New Jersey’s Best Hot Dogs by N.J. Monthly Magazine.

  • Texas Wiener I - 100 Watchung Ave, Plainfield, NJ 07060

    Texas Weiner I in Plainfield opened in 1924. It turns 100 this year and it is the oldest hot dog shop in New Jersey. Jimmy V told me he’s been going here for over 40 years and they serve his most favorite chili dog in the world. Cash only, but they have an ATM on site.

    I just watched a video of Frank “The Tank” Fleming chow down on a Texas 1 wiener with full strips of bacon and melted American cheese. My heart stopped just thinking about it. Yes, I want one.

     

  • Belmont Grill - 856 Belmont Ave #2339, North Haledon, NJ 07508

    Another one of those great hole in the wall joints where the food is good and the service is friendly. People come here for more than just great dogs, the fries are said to be very good.

  • McCobb's Family Restaurant & Ice Cream Bar - 2391 Hamburg Tpke, Wayne, NJ 07470

    Joseph N. asked that I include McCobb’s on this list and so did a few other people. Texas style franks and homemade chili remain staples at what started out as a roadside hot dog stand back in 1940. In 1973, when the roadside stand was expanded, “McCobb’s Family Restaurant” was born.

    Make sure to get some of that creamy Gelotti’s ice cream for dessert.

     

  • Munce's Hotdog Truck - 1843-1967 St Georges Ave, Rahway, NJ 07065

    A staple on St. Georges Ave in Rahway in front of Rahway River Park . These dirty water dogs are known for their super snap the minute you bite into one.  Many have made positive comments about how good the chili is.

    You can choose the toppings of your choice at no extra charge.

    Munce Hot Dog Truck - Rahway, NJ

    5 reviews and 10 photos of MUNCE HOT DOG TRUCK "I'm surprised I'm the first review here. Munce has been at Rahway River Park for many many years. Known to locals as the best truck with dirty water dogs. They use Sabrett natural casing hot dogs that have that snap.

     

  • Goffle Grill - 1140 Goffle Rd, Hawthorne, NJ 07506

    Joe P. Says Goffle Grill dogs are his favorite! Their famous Texas Weiner, with homemade chili sauce, mustard, and onions is only $3.09. Old school counter service with burgers, fries, and more.

 

Tom Hanley is the host of Jersey Rock, New Jersey’s longest running local rock show on 95.9 The RAT. He got his start in broadcasting at Monmouth University's WMCX-FM. He's hosted Jersey Rock since 2016, been on the air at WRAT since 2008, and been listening to RAT Radio since 1996! Jersey Rock is a multi-platform local music brand that provides exposure to NJ artists. The on-air program features a different Garden State band each week. Tune to 95.9 The RAT every Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday night at 11:30 pm to hear call-ins and songs from the Jersey Rock Band of the Week! Each week Jersey Rock features a different music video as the Jersey Rock Video of the Week . Between Jersey Rock's on-air and online platforms, there's opportunities for 9 different NJ bands to be featured each week. If you're in a NJ band and want to be on Jersey Rock, e-mail Tom Hanley. Send your mp3's, videos, pictures, and links to [email protected]

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