Crif Dogs

Update: Crif Dogs now has a location in Williamsburg, on Driggs Ave

After a long night of bar-hopping, one bite of Crif Dog’s “chihuahua,” a smoked, deep-fried hot dog wrapped in bacon and topped with avocado and sour cream, practically made my face explode with happiness. A below-street-level dude’s hangout replete with 80s arcade games Millipede and Spy Hunter, sports on TV, and the smell of waffle fries lingering on the air, Crif Dogs is just the late-night spot to hit up when a dog smothered with fried egg and cheese is the best idea you’ve ever heard of. Just be sure to try a one that’s spiraled in bacon, which adds a crisp, salty kick to whatever creative combination of toppings you can dream up. If you’re used to Gray’s Papaya prices, be prepared for sticker shock, as these dogs range from $2.75 to $5.00, but the toppings are generous and really make the whole experience.

Note the sliding wooden door on the left wall when you’re walking in, and the window behind the counter through which orders seem to disappear. Next door is speakeasy-themed lounge PDT, an upscale spot for masterful cocktails where you can order food from Crif Dogs. It’s a strange juxtaposition but worth checking out.

Crif Dogs/PDT
113 Saint Marks Place between First Avenue and Avenue A
Sun-Mon: 12pm-12am Tue-Thu: 12pm-2am Fri-Sat: 12pm-4am