When I started watching Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives I saw an episode that featured a West Virginia spot, Hillbilly Hot Dogs. Not only did it look like it would have great hotdogs, but it looked like it would be a really fun place to eat.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago. While I was planning our vacation someone in one of my Facebook groups posted something about Hillbilly Hot Dogs. Imagine my excitement when I realized that it was right on the way that we would be going.
The restaurant is about 15 minutes from I-64. It is on the side of the road across the street from the Ohio River. We arrived at what looked like a roadside junkyard. That is part of the charm of Hillbilly Hot Dogs, the eclectic collection of stuff.
The staff was very friendly and helpful in walking us through the ropes of how they do business. Our friend, Joe and his nine-year-old son, Jackson, joined us for lunch. It was delightful to see the restaurant through the eyes of a child. His excitement at everything he saw was contagious, especially his delight at eating inside a school bus. As we waited for our food, we used the provided markers to sign a stool. Jackson marked anything and everything he could reach.
There is an extensive hot dog menu, as well as non-hot dog items, including appetizers, burgers, chicken and vegetarian selections. I picked a West Virginia Dog (chili, mustard, onions and slaw) and Chuck’s Junk Yard Dog (chili, mustard, onions, ketchup, relish, slaw, sauerkraut, nacho cheese, jalapenos and BBQ sauce). Chris went for a Harrison Dog (chili, nacho cheese, sautéed onions, sour cream and bacon bits) and The Coal Miner (a deep-fried hot dog with chili, mustard, onions and Cajun seasoning).
The hot dogs were delicious, but the atmosphere is what made it special. From hearing our name announced on the loudspeaker when our order was ready, to them ringing a bell and singing when we put money in the tip jar and the spectacular display of nonsense, the place was just so much fun.
We walked around for a while after we ate enjoying the decor. The more we looked around, the more we discovered. My favorite things were the Wedding Chapel and the van perched on top of a tree trunk. Between the good food and the adventure, Hillbilly Hot Dogs is well worth the trip.
Cost for two beers, two sodas, six hot dogs, two corn dogs and an order of onion rings – $42.24.
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