Atomic Dawg Berkley

Intrigued by great reviews and the great logo outside of this eclectic looking building, we stopped for lunch at Atomic Dawg. Thinking it was a small joint offering sparse counter seating, we moved in closer and spotted additional seating upstairs. The menu is a hotdog lover's dream, featuring destinational favorites like The D, Chicago Dawg, Manhattan Dawg and the Milwaukee Dawg. With hotdogs to suits all tastes, the Hula Dawg, the Russian, the Swanky Franky, the build your own Atomic Dawg and the purist Lonely Dawg all aim to please. This is a sausage emporium. Sausage on a bun variations like traditional Italian, spicy Chorizo, Greek-inspired lamb, southwestern chicken and turkey as well as the interesting sausage of the week from Corridor Sausage Company are on the menu. Not in the mood for dogs or sausage, Atomic Dawg also serves up burgers and a 6 cheese Gary's Grilled Cheese sandwich. Select your soda from the well-stocked cooler. We were happy to see Orange and Grape Crush. After ordering a Chicago Dawg and a Russian Dawg (“I'll take my Russian with cole slaw on top rather than sauerkraut. What the heck? Let's get adventurous.”), the friendly counter staff said they would bring our dogs to us. Climbing the stairs, we saw there was another attached room—this place is larger than it looks—and sat near a window. Atomic Dawg is a delight. The hot dogs were delicious. Choosing the cole slaw for my Russian was a great idea. So good! The music definitely seemed to compliment our experience. Our chef strolled in and mentioned that we were listening to selections from his music collection, compiled by his partner. With vintage lighting, tables, chair and speakers, I felt like we had gone back in time. Loved looking out the paned window at interesting downtown Berkley. Regretting that we had not also ordered the fresh made chips, I went down to order some and they were brought up for us. Hot and crisp, good with ketchup, they tasted like French Fries. The chef and part owner mentioned that Atomic Dawg would be hosting a spoken word session where college students and the general public were welcome to hear some creative recitation. The two rooms lend themselves easily to more intimate poetry and music events planned at Atomic Dawg. Lunch for two at 23.00 was reasonable for an atmospheric upscale diner. The food is great. The service is fast and very friendly. Carry-out is available. Can't wait to return to try the sausage!

Food was great. Hula and the bbq pure greatness Review must be 50 characters :( The dog was perfect, great bun, great dog, great toppings, go here naow!