Hey, y’all! Are you hungry? ‘Cause I don’t know about you, but I always am. For all of you upperclassmen, I’m sure you’ve seen University Dogs in the Downtown Millikin area at least a zillion times. As for the freshman, perhaps not. Well, let me tell you, I hadn’t even tried U Dogs until the end of my freshman year here at the Big Blue. Of course, I ordered their classic Chicago Dog with a side of french fries and a soda. It was good, but I had since forgotten what their food tasted like. Last week, I went over there to grab a bite of their most favored item: the Chicago Dog.

If you don’t know what a Chicago Dog is, it’s a hot dog on a poppy seed bun, topped with sport peppers, diced white onion, tomato, pickle, relish, and mustard. It’s a mouthful, to say the least. Well, when I came in there, I instantly remembered the warm family-like feeling that the place gives off. Its bright yellow walls and collage of posters make a person feel like they’re stepping into the hangout spot. Then, there’s the chalkboard, beautifully scribbled with all that they have to offer, from Charburgers to hot dogs, to chocolate-dipped cheesecake on a stick! The items are all under $10–perfect for the broke-and-busy college student. What’s more, there are daily specials. Thankfully, I came on “Windy-City Wednesday,” which is their four dollar special. Customers can get a hot dog, fries, and a can of soda for four dollars–and that’s what I did.

So, you may be desperate to know what’s so special about U Dogs’ hot dogs, or maybe even their fries. Let’s start with the fries, whom U Dogs’ employee, Molly Yablon, explains are “cut fresh every morning.” They’re crunchy, but melt in your mouth; buttery, but not too salty–just downright addictive. You can drizzle ‘em in ketchup, mustard, or their malt vinegar. Now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for: the Chicago Dog. When you order the hot dog, Yablon is going to ask you if you want it steamed or charred–please get it charred. Getting the Chicago hot dog charred will be the best decision you make, trust me. Why? It’s an amazing combination of smokiness and crunch. I mean who wants a slippery hot dog? Not me.

Anyway, let me tell you about this hot dog. It surprised me with the sheer freshness and flavor profiles in just one bite. U Dogs also season their Chicago Dogs with seasoning salt and it just adds so much pizzazz. But, the best part of the hot dog is that it’s just the right amount of messy. You won’t be finding any mustard on your shirt that night, but you will have a few onions fall out–eh, nobody likes that many onions anyway, right? So it’s the perfect salty, savory, light-yet-filling meal. Oh yeah, and they’re open until three a.m. on Friday’s and Saturday’s, so if you’re coming back from a party or some other event, or maybe you’re studying and need a midnight snack–come to University Dogs. Oh, but what if you don’t like hot dogs or burgers?

Another fan favorite is the pulled pork sandwich, with a delicious barbecue sauce that the boss makes himself. Additionally, there are vegetarian options–the Veggie Burger and the Grilled Cheese, with your choice of cheese! There are plenty of options to choose from and it wouldn’t be what it is today if it weren’t for 2011 Millikin graduates, Dan Henchel and Zane Peterson. Way to go, Millikin!

I give University Dogs a nine and a half out of ten, only because the fries were slightly overcooked. It’s more than average because of its family-like and welcoming atmosphere, dedication, and flavors. It’s not your typical fast-food restaurant. If you’d like more information regarding University Dogs, you can visit their website,  http://www.universitydogs.com/