James Coney Island

10/29/07

Street level and quick service

by blazergrn at Citysearch

If you're tired of going down into the tunnels to find some lunch, this is a good place to go. The hot dogs are standard JC Island (good, not great) and the chili pie is a winner. Last week I tried the philly cheesesteak and was pleasantly surprised. It was really good!

My boss and I visit here usually once a week. Being on the street level, they have to use a token system to let you in the bathroom, otherwise I suppose the homeless in the area would trash it. The place is clean. The employees are friendly but focused on getting you through the line quickly. Fidel isn't going to have a long conversation with you about what you want on your hot dog.

I'm not the biggest fan of the chili (I like it - it just doesn't like me), but my boss gets the chili pie nearly every time and loves it. I usually get my dogs with cheese & onions and then put some of their hot sauce on top. mmm hot sauce. The tater tots are better than the fries but sometimes I just grab a bag of chips.

Overall, I like it enough to make it a once a week place and can get in and out fast enough to sometimes stop in Macy's on the way back to the office.

• Pros: Quick Service, Street Level, Close to Macy's
• Cons: Homeless hang around this block

Grilled franks are the top dogs at this casual spot for a quick lunch or affordable dinner.

by Contributor at Citysearch

In Short
Founded in 1923, this locally owned and operated fast-food chain serves up hot dogs and other quick-serve favorites. Customers can choose to drive through, take out or dine in. The restaurant is best known for its Coney Island hot dog: a grilled all-beef wiener, chili, mustard, onions on a fresh-baked bun. Other favorites include chili pie with Fritos, cheeseburgers, cheese fries, Italian sausage sandwiches and tater tots. For dessert, choose from apple pie, brownies, milk shakes and cheesecakes.