Baba’s Original New York System

Probably the most spectacular item on the uniquely Rhode Island menu is the “New York System Weiner.”  at Baba’s Original New York System.

In an unassuming yellow-sided shop at 424 Smith Street stands the Baba’s Original New York System restaurant, founded in 1927. Look for the big art deco neon sign that reads “EAT HOT WEINERS” as your beacon to truly great dogs.

What should I eat at Baba’s Original New York System?

The New York System Weiner is indeed a delicacy and its preparation is as much ritual as it is the combination of the correct ingredients. The grilled Weiner is placed in a steamed bun and several bare dogs are then lined up the bare (and oftentimes hairy) arm of the Weiner chef for dressing. They are topped with a ground brown meat sauce, mustard, chopped onions and a hint of celery salt. These greasy dogs are on the small side and slide down easy, so you might want to order three or four “gaggahs all the way” when you visit.

Get a joke and a Weiner

In addition to serving some of the best weiners that can be had in the Northeast, the Original NY System restaurant has an entertaining counter staff that will keep you entertained with great jokes and will share stories of the celebrities who have stopped in, including David Byrne of the Talking Heads who worked there when he was a student at nearby Rhode Island School of Design. (It is said the chopping arm motion in his 80s video “Once in a Lifetime” comes from the way NY System Weiners are lined on the chef’s arm!)

Original New York System is a great place to stop by for a satisfying lunch – go there during the Sox season and catch a few innings on a Saturday afternoon, or stop by late at night after leaving the club – the place hops. You can also get breakfast there as they are open early, before 7am most days – but you’ll do best to come for the weiners.

Baba’s Original New York System dates back to 1927 and serves the classic Rhode Island weenie. From bun up, the package includes a little grilled tube steak with squared-off ends, meat sauce, mustard, chopped raw onions, and celery salt. Locals known them as gaggers, or as it is properly pronounced, gaggahs.

Original post by James S.