An entire menu devoted to hot dogs? Unless we were talking about some ramshackle, street-side vending cart, most people would be a little doubtful.
Zack's, however, defies such skepticism. Claiming to offer "hot dogs with an attitude," Zack's believes diversity is overrated. As I strolled into the joint, I wasn't so sure I agreed. My fears were allayed though, once I saw the menu. This place has more hot dog varieties than Starbucks has coffee drinks. Impossible, you say? Only to the uninitiated.
The counter lady interrupted my reverie with a polite greeting, and after very careful deliberation (about three seconds' worth) I chose the obvious -- the Baltimore Dog. This kosher dog wrapped in grilled bologna can include all the toppings imaginable -- none of that 25 cents per topping nonsense. Cheap, appealing and advertised as "dangerously addictive," it seemed like an easy crowd favorite.
One hot minute later, my still-sizzling dog rolled off the grill and into my hands (preceded by a plate, of course), closely followed by curly fries and an ice cold Dew. Over at the condiment wall, I opted for some ketchup and pickles. However, there were so many topping choices, I wasn't even positive what some of them were.
Zack's, tucked neatly next to the multiplex on White Marsh's Avenue, provides plenty of post-meal entertainment: people-watch from a park bench, browse the Barnes & Noble or take in a movie. Zack's has a deal with the theater, too, so you can take your dog inside. The dog is in your yard, my friend: choose between an amazing $2 number from Zack's or a $4.50 soggy Ball Park at the movies.
True, Zack's has limited seating, but the portability of hot dogs makes them easy to munch while strolling the Avenue.
Dish: Zack's hot dogs rock. Tons of choices, 10 different sides, even a few "notdogs" (salads and wraps for those with inexplicable sausage aversions). This is a snazzy, clean restaurant in a great location, filled with fabulous, cheap food. Dig in.
Damage: The Baltimore Dog cost me a lean $3.50 and was filling and delicious. Make it a combo for $2.50 more, and you get a nice, big fountain soda and your choice of sides ranging from a pile of fries to baked beans to mac and cheese. Total after tax: $6.30. Tack on a date and a movie and you've got yourself a night on the town for less than $30.
Decision: If you've never been a fan of hot dogs, Zack's may change your mind. If you do like hot dogs, Zack's will blow your mind. If you're broke, Zack's keeps you from begging on the street. See? Everybody wins.
Zack's, however, defies such skepticism. Claiming to offer "hot dogs with an attitude," Zack's believes diversity is overrated. As I strolled into the joint, I wasn't so sure I agreed. My fears were allayed though, once I saw the menu. This place has more hot dog varieties than Starbucks has coffee drinks. Impossible, you say? Only to the uninitiated.
The counter lady interrupted my reverie with a polite greeting, and after very careful deliberation (about three seconds' worth) I chose the obvious -- the Baltimore Dog. This kosher dog wrapped in grilled bologna can include all the toppings imaginable -- none of that 25 cents per topping nonsense. Cheap, appealing and advertised as "dangerously addictive," it seemed like an easy crowd favorite.
One hot minute later, my still-sizzling dog rolled off the grill and into my hands (preceded by a plate, of course), closely followed by curly fries and an ice cold Dew. Over at the condiment wall, I opted for some ketchup and pickles. However, there were so many topping choices, I wasn't even positive what some of them were.
Zack's, tucked neatly next to the multiplex on White Marsh's Avenue, provides plenty of post-meal entertainment: people-watch from a park bench, browse the Barnes & Noble or take in a movie. Zack's has a deal with the theater, too, so you can take your dog inside. The dog is in your yard, my friend: choose between an amazing $2 number from Zack's or a $4.50 soggy Ball Park at the movies.
True, Zack's has limited seating, but the portability of hot dogs makes them easy to munch while strolling the Avenue.
Dish: Zack's hot dogs rock. Tons of choices, 10 different sides, even a few "notdogs" (salads and wraps for those with inexplicable sausage aversions). This is a snazzy, clean restaurant in a great location, filled with fabulous, cheap food. Dig in.
Damage: The Baltimore Dog cost me a lean $3.50 and was filling and delicious. Make it a combo for $2.50 more, and you get a nice, big fountain soda and your choice of sides ranging from a pile of fries to baked beans to mac and cheese. Total after tax: $6.30. Tack on a date and a movie and you've got yourself a night on the town for less than $30.
Decision: If you've never been a fan of hot dogs, Zack's may change your mind. If you do like hot dogs, Zack's will blow your mind. If you're broke, Zack's keeps you from begging on the street. See? Everybody wins.
