The804.com–Richmond VA Real Estate Blog

I’m still getting comments around I post made way back in November regarding my favorite Richmond hot dogs.

All of the commenters are raving about this nice little hot dog stand in the heart of darkness (ie, Far West End).  As I’ve responded, I believe Joey’s Hotdogs (10400 Ridgefield Pkwy (inside the Exxon)) is the “the most underrated “restaurant” in Richmond right now.”  Here’s what the Joeyheads have to say…

I am suprised that you didn’t put Joey’s at #1. I know, I know - it is based on your taste. I was brought up in Northern NY and have lived in Syracuse (Hydes Hot Dogs), Buffalo (Ted’s) and in Oswego(Rudy’s). You have to start off with a great dog and I just don’t see that at Melito’s. Joey’s has natural casing snappy reds that are right on target for the perfect dog. His Chili is also a Greek sauce which is also authentic to what I find in Upstate NY. Anyways food for thought - right? To me - there’s nothing better than to get 3 “All the way” at Joey’s. 
Comment by DJ Smith

Joey’s Hotdogs are #1
I have eaten at Melito’s, specifically for their hotdogs for a long, long time. For this gastronome, there isn’t even a comparison. The dogs at Joey’s are true dogs with a proper natural casing(I believe they are specially made from Hormel), the chili is far superior (and quite different) from that of Melito’s. Further, it is the water steaming that gives the simple bun that “squishiness”.
Having eaten two chili dogs at Melito’s last Friday night, and having just eaten four dogs all the way at Joey’s, bar none I’ll take Joey’s anyday. Now if you to make a category for homemade potato chips with cheese sauce, you can’t touch Melito’s! 
Comment by BPhillips

I had no idea there were other dog junkies/connousseirs in Richmond, a town which has been void of a good dog for many years, since Angelos closed. However there’s no doubt in my mind that Joeys in #1 in Richmond, and then some. It’s a dog I’ve been eating for over 30 years. I grew up in VA beach and found a dog “Jimmies” in the late 70’s that I consider the best dog I’ve ever had. Well, it turns out that Jimmy learn his trade from Joeys dad, Tony, in the 60’s. (About 5 years ago, I started eating at Joeys dads original place.)
I travel a great deal with my job, and no matter where I go, I search to find the local dog, always in search of a great dog. My travels, both work and pleasure, have also included many places around the world, and so far Joeys slogan, “Best dog on the planet” holds up in my book.
As for other dogs nearby and how they stack up, Melito’s dogs fall short of Joeys for three key reasons, the chilli, which I find bland, the non snap dog, and the size of the dog, a touch too big in my opinion, too big to offer the perfect bite which includes all the classic ingredients mustard, chilli onions. I’ve not tried Rays dog house but will give it a try.
Yes, it’s very much “to each their own” who has the best dog in town, but take it from someone who has been at the quest for many years, Joey has the best dogs in town. 
Comment by kent

When there is this much passionate evangelism for a restaurant, you must take it very seriously.  Eventually, I predict a Richmond wide cult following for this undiscovered gem.  You heard it here first!

For those who’ve never been, here is a  quick Joey’s primer:

• Only one item on the menu: Hot Dog (sodas and ice cream floats for drink)…Less is definitely more by concentrating excellence on one item.
• Read the press clippings around the counter.  As you can also see by the comments, Joey’s comes from a royal lineage of hot dog purveyors.
• Hot Dog all the way means onion, chili, and mustard (there is no relish).  
• Hot dogs are electric griddled like Gray Papaya’s.  The bun is steamed so it’s nice and spongey.  The natural casing dogs snap.
• The chili is really, really good.  Sort of a dryish Texas style (ie no beans).
• Because it sits in a gas station convenience store, you can buy potato chips and dessert (ie Snickers bars) from the store.  Also, if you need cell phone accessories with your hot dog, you’re covered.