Okay, there are those days that just FLOW! You know what I'm saying? The days where, even though things might not be perfect at work, something happens that sets into motion a series of events that is just RIGHT! I had that day today. Let me tell you about it...
First off, in case someone had read my previous column (Do I have an AUDIENCE already?) and is wondering where do the hot dogs come in, be patient. All in good time. But this all started because I wanted to pick up a birthday gift for my favorite editor. So I invited him to accompany me to a cigar shop in the area of our office. We had one of those conversations on the way there that we normally do. A little odd sounding to the unprepared ear, but I always enjoyed them immensely.
Then we arrived at the shop, entered, and perused the selection of stogies. I knew that amongst the selection of local products, basic imports, and premium smokes, were a few Arturo Fuente Hemmingways. Avery had introduced me to Hemmingways at a Stag party a few weeks earlier, and I had been seeking them out since. As we neared the display case, I heard a satisfied, "Aaaahhhhh..." from behind me and knew he had found them, but it was then time for me to be surprised. Not only did they have the size that I had planned on buying him, but they had that rare beast... a Short Story!!!
Short Stories are much smaller, and oddly shaped - rounded at one end, then flaring out, and curling over into a point where you would light them. It is this shape that makes them so hard to find ... only the most skilled wrapper can properly fashion one.We immediately purchased a few each, along with one of the longer style which I then presented it to Avery with a smile and the obligatory "Happy Birthday!" Then we exited the store, buoyed by the fact that we had not only gotten a great cigar, but at an incredibly reasonable price.
It was then that the subject of lunch was brought up. I had planned on stopping on McDonalds so Avery could get a quick bite, but a thought crossed my mind. I needed a new column for the next issue, AND I had wanted to do a Hot Dog cart in the near future. No Time Like the present!
So, it was after all this that we stopped at a small cart directly across from ESPN on West Street in Bristol. Like most carts, it really didn't have a name... I mean, other than the vacant lot, it didn't have an address! So giving it a name would be like putting hubcaps on a tractor ! As we got out of my car & headed toward the cart, I spied the large sign proclaiming Martin Rosol Meats. Another good sign! I gleefully stepped up to the window, and asked what fixings were available. He had Chili, Kraut, mustard, relish, chopped onions, & ketchup. So I ordered a hot dog with chili, onions & ketchup. And all this was only a buck and a half ! What's better than that?
On first bite I knew I had DEFINITELY chosen wisely. The hot dogs had been cooked entirely on a grill, and were definitely crispy on the outside, but not to the point of being burnt. The chili was tasty, without being overpowering and, as Avery pointed out, there was enough to give the dog flavor, but not so much that you made a mess. I was able to eat the whole thing without getting one drop on my shirt, and if you have ever eaten with me, you'd KNOW how rare an occurrence that is! The onions and ketchup were also plentiful, without being unwieldy. And although the roll started to tear as I bit into it, it was because it was EXTREMELY fresh, and not soggy. And for you kraut fans out there, Avery said it was definitely top notch. The purveyor had told him his wife made it herself with cinnamon, honey, & apple cider vinegar.
All in all, a perfect topper to a great lunch hour. So if you're in the area take a break and get a bite. Just don't ask me where the cigar shop is. There's still another box of Short Stories behind that case and they've got my name on them.
P.S. I would like to acknowledge the tremendous co-operation & understanding my wife has shown throughout my recent gastronomic safaris. (Translation: She wanted to know why I didn't mention her last week and I'm trying to kiss up!)