You haven’t had a hot dog until you’ve tasted one at Hangtown Hot Dogs.

While the Main Street storefront boasts only several stools and one table, don’t let appearances deceive what it has to offer. At the Viking-decorated counter, quick witted owner “Shell Dogg” serves her customers some humor and all-beef traditional wieners, Polish dogs, veggie and turkey dogs, pork bratwurst and corn dogs with a selection of gourmet toppings like chili, cheddar cheese, guacamole, barbecue sauce, and cream cheese.

While I love my beef, I decided to take a trip outside by comfort zone since I was visiting with my vegetarian friend. After a few jokes teasing my friend about passing up some great beef, I chose the Chicago Veggie Dogg. The beef dog substitute surprised me by looking and tasting just like my usual ballpark favorite. The dog was topped with spicy mustard, onions, relish, banana peppers, tomato, dill pickle and celery salt and came on a toasted poppyseed bun. The burst of flavors from the toppings complimented each other and provided just enough kick without being too spicy. The flavors made me completely forget it wasn’t even meat. My veggie-loving friend heartily gave a stamp of approval given his wider background of meat substitutes. Meanwhile, the customer next to us put down a sauerkraut topped bratwurst and promptly began discussing with the owner what he would get on his next visit. I then wondered if I could eat another one.

One thing is sure, I will definitely be back. The hot dogs were perfect for munching while window shopping through Historic Placerville. Next time I think I will have to try the Southern Dog. Bacon, chili, cheddar.

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