Roanoke Weiner Stand

Roadfood rule: when the word wiener is spelled weiner, you can count on it being topped with chili, chopped onions, and mustard. Chances are good that the chili will be fine-grind beef with only a modicum of heat but a salvo of spice with a strong Greek accent (nutmeg? allspice?), similar to Cincinnati chili. So it is at the Roanoke Weiner Stand, which has been dishing out dogs since 1926.

There’s really only one question to answer when ordering at this downtown institution: How many? Yes, it is possible to eliminate the onions or, for that matter, the chili or mustard; but that would be a misdemeanor. This hot dog is all about harmony, which means the works: porky griddle-sizzled frank, crisp onions, kaleidoscopically seasoned chili, steamed-soft bun, yellow mustard. It’s no gourmet dog, that’s for sure, but it’s a classic. A pair of them, an order of French fries, and a large drink will get you plenty of change from a $10 bill.

Located downtown in Market Square, the Weiner Stand offers indoor seating as well as a broad patio outside for al fresco dining.

There is a second location of the Weiner Stand at 3601 Brandon Ave. SW. 540-345-0095.