Gold Coast Dogs
159 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL, 60601
Gold Coast Dogs Menu
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Vienna Beef Hot Dogs
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Gold Coast Sandwiches
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Gold Coast Char Grilled Burgers
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Side Orders
Healthy Meal suggestions for Gold Coast Dogs
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Vienna Beef Hot Dogs
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Gold Coast Sandwiches
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Gold Coast Char Grilled Burgers
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Side Orders
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Address :
159 N Wabash Ave
Chicago, IL, 60601 - Phone (312) 917-1677
- Website https://www.goldcoastdogs.net/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :10:00 am - 8:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Average
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Drive-Thru : No
Categories
Burgers
Burger or Hamburger is savored as the most desired fast food meal in the United States. A hamburger is basically a sandwich prepared by stuffing ground meat patty, generally beef, between two slices of a bun cut in half. Hamburger is also famous for its seasoning. Most popular condiments used in hamburgers in the United States are mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup. Besides ground meat patty, hamburgers are also stuffed with lettuce, onions, tomato slices, pickles, and cheese.
Hamburgers are also categorized into two types in the United States. Fast food hamburger and individual hamburgers served at restaurants are two basic types of burgers served in the United States. The individual hamburgers served at restaurants are prepared using everything including lettuce, onion, tomato, and sliced pickles as well as melted cheese on the patty or crumbled on top. American restaurants also serve veggie burgers for those who don't relish meat. Cheeseburgers are also hot favorite in the United States.
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B A.
Hot dogs great. Avoid burgers. Are pre-cooked, then left out sitting. When someone orders, they toss onto grill for a minute. Result is a room temperature overcooked mess. Customer service has always been bad, especially the manager who looks like Bubba Bouie's twin and has been there forever. Btw, they have no forks or knives. Only spoons. Was told no one ever orders without a bun. By Bubba Bouie, of course. But dogs are good here.
(2)Austin H.
I am a big fan of the Chicago style hot dog, and I have been to Gold Coast before, at a different location. The other location impressed me, this one did not. There was way too much mustard, and not enough everything else on my dogs. The service was subpar and slow, and the dogs were just thrown together without much care.
(2)Belle L.
A la carte menu. NO combos. I come here as I am too lazy to trek to Maxwell Street. Maxwell Street Polish + Small Cheese Fries + Soda = $10.35. Ouch! The working class can't afford t-h-i-s street food. Eat like a New Yorker, not a Midwestern, then the price will be affordable (about $5 or less for hot dog). Food is prepared well even though my grilled onions are missing. A nicely charred polish is more important to me.
(5)Fernando A.
Perfectly good dog with all the trimmings. Fries were a bit lackluster, processed and under fried.
(3)Andre W.
I have gone to the Popeye's that this place is connected to for over 10 years as all of my jobs have been in the loop. I have never once ordered anything from Gold Coast Dogs until my buddy told me he had a philly steak from there that was pretty good. We went over as its a 3-5 min walk from the office. Its your typical greasy spoon as they have burgers, hot dogs, polish sausages, italian beef, fries, etc... I ordered the philly steak and it was pretty good as it came with all the usual stuff; cheese, steak, bread, peppers onions & mayo. It was very good, but I am comparing it to Philly's Best (chain) as I have never been to Philadelphia to get the real thing. This place has a nice following with people that work in the area as the place gets really full around noon. I like this place and will probably add it to my lunch rotation going forward.
(4)Eric B.
Mediocre, skimpy on the toppings, and overpriced. Never knew a Chicago dog could feel like it's all bun and 2 dogs could feel like a snack. Most Gold Coast locations are generally pretty average but still satisfying. This location is definitely subpar.
(2)michael w.
This place is parked side by side to a Popeyes (share the same space). Convenient location and a straight up dog place. Even offered a family special that came in handy. The guys behind the counter were friendly and helpful in getting my family of four set on the details of our order. My 13 yo daughter apparently wanted ketchup on her chi dog, gasp - ikr, which we were informed that 13 was the cut off for such an exception ;-) It's not gourmet and not healthy but if you want a quick hit with a dog, then these guys have you covered. Is it the best chi dog out there? I will leave that up to you to decide ;-)
(3)Kylie K.
I'm not from Chicago, so of course I had to try a Chicago dog. It seems to me like these Hot dogs are pretty small but then loaded with toppings. I just don't understand the hype I suppose. It wasn't terrible by any means... I think I just had higher expectations.
(3)Angelina R.
This place is HORRIBLE! Fries were dry and unsalted. Italian beef was in a hot dog bun with 2 strips of meat and no gravy. Philly cheese steak looked like cat food. If I could give this place negative stars I would. Also, the owner is so damn rude. The service here is pathetic. Go to UB Dogs or Portillos. This place is terrible.
(1)Alex S.
Came to Chicago and really wanted to try these infamous hot dogs. Coming from NY we have amazing hot dogs (ie Nathans) but I must say these were pretty good and were piled high with distracting "fixins". Overall pretty good tho. I just had it to say I have had one haha
(3)Scott M.
30-45 minute delivery (Seamless) took 85 minutes. Food was cold. Can't recommend delivery.
(2)Mista C.
Dogs are decent at best, but what prompted me to write this review is that the customer experience here is terrible. Not only do they not have bathrooms at all, they won't give you a cup of water for free. The guy tried to charge me $2 for a cup of tap water. Pathetic. Screw this establishment.
(1)Courtney K.
This is a combined Gold Coast and Popeyes location. Definitely not where you want to stop in to try a Chicago dog. Service is less than enthusiastic and it just feels like a cheap, bad fast food restaurant. My Chicago Dog was fine but that is about it.
(2)Andrew D.
If they are the same group that operates Gold Coast Dogs at Midway Airport...STAY AWAY! They served the absolute worst Chicago dog ever! The food court location was dirty. The employees, especially the order taker, were unkempt and surly. They advertised a special with dog, fries and drink and on a billboard but professed to know nothing about the offer. Then tried to tell me I didn't get a drink since I didn't pay for it. I'd eat a bag of chips and water before my flight rather than eat at Gold Coast.
(1)Michael P.
Despite lots of trips to the Windy City, I'd never had time for a Chicago-style hot dog until this past week. Gold Coast Dogs offers a nice combo deal - two dogs, fries and a soda - that is tasty. I chose steamed, rather than grilled. "Dragged through the Garden" with electric green relish, peppers and a tomato slice crowning everything. They were great and the fries were tasty. Centrally located in the Loop, diagonally across Wabash from Macy's (Marshall Field's). It's ok for dining in; no bathroom that I could find. Unusual that the place shares an entry with a Popeye's franchise.
(3)Michael S.
Yuucckk. Just visited Gold Coast Dog after a Saturday class and hands down the worst hotdog and fries I've ever had. Anywhere. Fries were old and undercooked. Steamed hotdog tasted like freezer burn. Onions had an odor to them. Two employees on duty looked like zombies. Last time at Gold Coast Dogs.
(1)Mykie H.
Gold Coast Dogs was the first place I ever had a Chicago hot dog-- a char dog at that. And to this day, it is my favorite. The char dog has a great texture and toppings are always portioned right. They have a "deal" for 4 dogs, fries and a 2 sodas that you can't pass up when you're with another person. The location is great in that it's in the loop, however they got docked a star from me due to the interior. It's shared with a Popeye's, not exactly what you want when you're bringing a tourist to get a Chicago dog. The food makes up for the atmosphere, though! Any time I am craving a Chicago dog, Gold Coast is my go-to.
(4)Jana C.
Ne'er, I do declare, did I eat so 'pretty' a hot dog in all my life!!! Small thoughts on the dog itself, but the bun and the fixin's... larger than life!!! "Cmon you're in Chicago" was what I kept hearing in my head... "Just get one!" Didn't really feel like fast food... but how can I comprehensively experience the culture of Chicago without trying one? Internal battle waged bit longer for dramatic effect, and then I gave in. Found one near Wabash....ergh. What do I order? what is a red hot dog? Don't comprehend menu above... opt for the most basic Magnificent hot dog. Pretty!!!! half crescent thinly sliced tomatoes... perfectly diced onions *two types*, relish and long slices of pickles.... soft as a cloud break freckled with poppy seeds!!! So bowled over by all that, I coulda ditched the dog and still wouldn't have changed my rating! Glad I did it... walked another 4 miles to assuaged the conscience.... PS Alert: When they ask if you want everything on it... that 'everything' does include my nemesis: peppers! thank goodness I asked... nothing contaminated.
(3)Kimmi M.
Yeah, yeah Superdawg, yadda yadda. Gold Coast Dogs is THE place for hot dogs in Chicago. Keep it simple, get a charred red hot and drag it through da garden (with everything), and maybe even some extra sport peppers (show 'em you're Chicago tough). Made with the SUPREME hotdog, da Vienna Beef dog, these charred beauties have Xs cut into the end to make them flower when they are cooked, adding to the beautiful aesthetic that is the Chicago-Style hot dog. If you're really hungry, get the Polish Sausage made in da Maxwell Street style. Chicago-Style hot dogs are my favorite food, and you know it means something when you find your perfect food match. *(This review is to be read in the voice of Bob Swerski from SNL)
(5)Michael H.
These used to be the best dogs/burgers in Chicago.. for fast food! I'm sure it was changed hands/ locations many times. Still good dogs/burgers just not great.. The French Fries were super generic and pretty small portion. What really pissed me off was the guy at register being super CHEAP with Ketchup & Napkins? Gave me ONE napkin and TWO Ketchup packets?? People hate that BS and don't come back!! GTFJD PS- The Burger with "Everything" is dressed like a Chicago Dog/Must Try!
(3)Josue R.
On our weekend trip to Chicago, there were a few things we NEEDED to try. The infamous Chicago Dog was one of them. After Yelping a bit, this place seemed decent-ish and it was in our area. OMG was it gross. First of all, the establishment was super sketch. After paying like $8 for the two dog combo we received our food in under 3 minutes - a sign of poor quality in my opinion. The single most thing that impacted my experience however was the neon-radioactive-looking relish. I swear. It was like neon green and disgusting looking. Who would want to put that in their mouth? Ugh. It just screamed of artificial ingredients - something we all could use less of. I would never, ever recommend this place to anyone!
(1)Una B.
Official fan, right here. Char dog combo with some fries and a tea. Well first off, their tea sucks. Its not the brewed kind, it comes out of the soda fountain and it tasted like a freaking melted Popsicle. Avoid, unless you really like melted popsicles. I got all the Chicago dog toppings except the tomatoes. And all was good. Soft bun, good snap to the dog, sport peppers had a kick, perfect amount of mustard, mmmm! The fries were hot and crispy and were actually really good as well. I needed more ketchup though. I went back to the counter and asked for more ketchup and the guy working said "5 dollars" I replied with "make ya holla!" and high fived him. He laughed and handed me a bunch. Mmm, chicago style dogs are now a favorite.
(4)Thanh L.
We passed by this place and were lured in by the smell (probably more Popeye's than this place).The jumbo char dog was decent but be careful the pepper is spicy. The Philly cheese and cheese fries were ok...cheese a little on the bland side. Price was decent $14 total.
(2)Ben N.
Although I'd been to Chicago a number of times in the past, and although I almost always like to sample the indigenous fare (especially junk food) when I visit another town, I'd never actually had a Chicago hot dog. Gold Coast Dogs was just down the street from the hotel, and Internet reviews suggest that it is something of a stand-by Chicago chain. So in I went. This location under the El track on Wabash downtown is pretty dismal and strictly fast-food in atmosphere, sharing store space with a Popeyes Fried Chicken. It seemed clean enough, though. Gold Coast's chargrilled Chicago dog was decent, but a bit blah. Personally, I like the pickles and peppers on the dog, but I'm not really a fan of the neon-green relish and neon-yellow mustard. The dog itself seemed a little withered; it was a little difficult to pick up much flavor among all the other ingredients. Overall, the hot dog was a little dry. Because I can see a Chicago hot dog being a lot better than this one was, it'll have to remain a subject for further research, and at some place other than Gold Coast.
(3)Keith R.
I've seen many embarassments in my life: wetting my pants in pre-school, my friend falling off stage during the high school play, David Hasselhoff, Paris Hilton and then there is that reality show called Jersey Shore. None of them though can compare to the embarassment that is Gold Coast Dogs, they should be banned from ever saying they even attempted to market the Chicago style hot dog. This North Wabash location was another stop on our hot dog tour of Chicago. You would think with a name of Gold Coast dogs, the dogs would be somewhat genuine Chicago. Let's start with the basics of a Chicago Style dog: An all beef Vienna dog Mustard White Onions Tomato Pickle Relish A pickle spear Sport Peppers Sprinkle of Celery Salt The GCD version had the hot dog, the mustard, the onions and tomato. The pickle relish was some sort of green slimy "knock off", not a real deal pickle relish. The pickle spear they put on it was limper than a 90 year old grandpa without Viagra. Their version of sport peppers was bannana peppers and absolutley not hint of celery salt. A Chicago dog also has the stuff piled high to where it falls apart as your devouring it. The GCD dog was pretty bare when it came to ingredients. Please Gold Coast Dog, either revamp your hot dogs or quite selling them and save yourself the misery saying you do and the misery of the people who have to attempt to eat that garbage.
(1)Kevin K.
Odd location for a hotdog stand; it shares its space with a popeyes. The italian beefs are really good. The cheeseburgers are decent, but nothing special.
(4)Andrew Y.
What's not to like? Deal of the Day (possibly everyday), 4 dogs, 2 drinks and fries, $12-14. Good toppings and served pretty quickly. And if that's not enough, it's attached to a Popeye's!
(3)Christa K.
I'm being schooled on Chicago-style hot dogs. Had the char-dog today. Was excellent. Am learning that there is more to a hot dog than simply meat & a bun. The star burst at the ends of the char-dog was an unexpected touch. The "electric relish" as my friend calls it, was great, too. I think part of it, too, was the experience in getting to the dog. One friend went to the get car and circle the block. The other and I ran around the block, cut through a skeezy alley and dodged a few cars to get to Gold Coast before friend #1 got there with the car. The love dining as a sport! Ate the dogs in the car on the way back to the burbs. A great ending to a fun day.
(4)Meridith H.
Most likely due to its prime downtown Chicago location, the prices are too high for what they are selling. I ordered two Chicago style hot dogs, fries, and a Mountain Dew for $7 & change. The dogs were of low quality - the meat had little taste, and the toppings left much to be desired. They were skimpy on the tomatoes, the relish was an unnatural neon green color, and they put way too much celery salt on it. Save your money and treat your stomach by skipping this place and going to Clark Street Dog instead. Their hot dog toppings are deliciously fresh and they charge less for it.
(2)Michael L.
Pretty good hot dogs, but there are much better places to get one in the area.
(2)Kevin C.
Brak's gutbomb tour continued Saturday at Gold Coast, my choice for an authentic Chicago hot dog. Waitasec.. there's a Popeye's Chicken sharing the same space. WTF? I'll ignore that indiscretion and not let it color my review. Having had a sizable breakfast not long before, I didn't go overboard and opted for the standard Chicago dog and a drink. Brak was not disappointed. All the essential ingredients were present, including an excellent poppy seed bun (too often the bun/bread is overlooked on an otherwise serviceable sandwich/burger/dog), a fine Vienna Beef wiener, and good and proper accessories. Next time I'm in Chicago I'll sample some of the other big names (such as Portillo's, which I did hit but only for an Italian Beef), but will want to go back to Gold Coast too.. good stuff. A solid 4 stars on the Brak-o-meter.
(4)Ron C.
After seeing that this is a few blocks from my hotel I had to check it out. This Gold Coast Dogs location is connected with a Popeye's. Which I found odd cause I thought this was a local place and not a chain. The dogs were pretty tasty. Not the best i've had in Chicago, but good.
(3)Mike C.
not horrible, but also nothing special either. it's just another small, hot dog stop...next to a Popeye's. and get the combo; just the hot dogs alone won't fill you up.
(2)Ava K.
I had a chicago dog, my friends had a chicago chardog and a chili chardog. They were all pretty good. I'm sure there are much better chicago dogs out there, but for the limited time I was in Chicago, I'm glad I at least tried this place.
(3)Marjie T.
I was in the mood for a really good Chicago hot dog and spotted this place on Yelp. I probably should have went elsewhere once I saw it shared a space with Popeye's, but I went in anyway. The counter is kind of confusing because you order at one end and then wait until the cashier calls your order and then repeat what you got and pay. I had to wait for my fries to cook so after I paid I just had to hang out until they were ready. I'm not sure what this place does when it's busy because it seems a little disorganized. Anyway, the hot dog wasn't even that good. The poppyseed bun was very fresh and soft, but other than that I've had much better. The onions tasted old and the dog was a little tough. The fries definitely needed salt, but I didn't see any around and even the ketchup was behind the counter and you had to ask for it. Next time, I'll try elsewhere.
(2)Marlon A.
I had the "Red Char Hot" hotdog: jalapeño, mustard, relish on a spicy red hotdog. It had good flavor but sadly the hotdog was dry and overcooked. Their digs are dumpy, has a generic fast food feel, and shares space with another fast food joint.
(2)Jackie H.
Eh, I wasn't impressed. On a sunny and warm spring day recently during lunch hour at work, I had a craving for a hot dog. It's been awhile, and the weather seemed like it was just beckoning for me to have something covered in mustard, relish and pickle (no Chicago-style for me, I have an aversion to raw tomotoes for some reason). My walk back from Macy's caused me to cross paths with Gold Coast Dogs. It was only okay. The dog itself was decent...Had a nice snap to it, neon-green relish. Bun was kinda soggy--a little too much for my liking...I mean, this isn't Italian Beef, it's a hot dog. The fries were soggy as well. And, only got a hot dog and fries for my $5, no drink included. I've had cheaper meals at hot dog places that were better and included more. Counter service was fine. No complaints there, relatively quick. I've come to realize I've been spoiled when it comes to hot dogs and fries...I went to DePaul where Demon Dogs (RIP) sat on a pedastal for me. Ah, I miss those delicious dogs and the best fries I've ever had...Unfortunately, Gold Coast Dogs is no Demon Dogs.
(2)Bob S.
Best dogs in Chicagoland. I walked 10 blocks out of my way to get here and as always it's worth it. New Yorkers must be idiots only putting mustard on their wieners. Chicago knows how to do it right, poppy seeds on the bun, hot peppers, onions, pickles, ketchup, mustard and tomato slices too. That's how you do it. An explosion of flavor to let you savor.
(3)Stacey P.
3.5 stars if I could---not bad Chicago dogs. Need to steam the buns but would eat there again. Friendly service. 2 dogs, fries, and soft drink for $8.0
(3)Steve M.
I'm definitely a fan of this place. It's classic Chicago grease food, and what seems to be one last stronghold in the Loop. I moseyed over for some lunch last week, and I got: 1 char dog, everything on it. One cheddar char dog, everything on it. One fountain diet pepsi. The car dogs were great. Blackened, crispy on the ends, delicious grill flavor with that all-beef hot dog flavor. They have all the classic Chicago Dog ingredients too (you should know what they are by now.) Perhaps my favorite (and worst for you) was the cheddar sauce. I know it's not real cheese. And, they must buy it from the same supplier that the Wiener's Circle gets theirs from because I've had the exact same "cheese" sauce there too. It's heavy and thick. A bit grainy even. And, is definitely cheddar flavored, but not too sharp. Its actually sort of hard to explain. Just go there and try it! Gold Coast Dogs: endorsed. Fully.
(4)Joe B.
Hands down, best dogs in the city. I've hunted near and far for a dog that will match the charred, cheesy goodness offered here. My search has been in vain. And I'm old enough to have tasted Demon Dogs and I've been sauced enough to have eaten 3am Weiner's Circle. But the menu here doesn't stop at hot dogs. Oh, no. In fact, dog v. burger is a personal mental struggle every time I stop in. Beyond food, the wait time is nearly nonextant, there's plenty of seating and the price is always right. Don't you think it's fitting that the best dogs in Chicago are found at a small, unassuming old place under some el tracks?
(4)Tom H.
Is Gold Coast Dogs a pleasant place to spend an afternoon? No, you're either looking out at a parking garage on the north or a gritty section of Wabash under the L tracks on the west, from inside a bare bones room with fading formica tables and a long window counter. But man, the dogs are freakin' great! From time to time I get the craving for a char dog, lightly crispy on the splayed ends, sitting inside an authentic Rosen's poppyseed bun with all the required fixin's. Add a nice little bag of french fries, which were hot and pleasantly potato-ey in flavor (though they could have been a little crispier to my taste) and a cup of Coke and....well, I'm just a happy guy. The dog flingers are friendly and efficient at what they do. And while I was there, a guy was constantly wiping down tables and tidying up the joint, which made it a pleasant place to sit for just a bit. The Gold Coast char dog is unlike just about any other hot dog I know in Chicago, but that's what makes it special. I'm a total fan of this place. My dog plus fries and a Coke were about $7.25. I'm an idiot, because as I was standing there waiting for my dog to come up, I realized that for another 25 cents or so, I could have ordered a 2-dog combo with fries and drink. Next time, I'll do just that.
(5)Sean P.
Cheap as dirt fast food hot dogs. Personally, I enjoyed the little hole-in-the-wall but don't go in expecting anything that will exceed expectations..
(3)Jia M.
good food, but a little pricey. I had the polish and the 1/3lb cheeseburger (both with grilled onions); the total came out to be $8.75. The polish was served on a soft poppyseed bun and the ends of the polish were split open and curled; it reminded me of a joker's hat. The only complaint was that the polish was a bit small for what I paid for it. The cheeseburger was on a soft hamburger bun and was decently sized. It was good. Service was friendly and quick, but the cook asked me twice what I wanted on my polish. It's a little pricey and there are places that beat Gold Coast Dogs on both pricing and quality, but Gold Coast Dogs isn't a bad choice if you're looking for good polishes and burgers in the loop. I would give gold coast dogs 3.5 stars if I could, but I'll be generous and round up.
(4)Mike S.
I wish there were more places around downtown like Gold Coast Dogs. Lots of places in the Loop have basically turned into clones of each other (Can anyone really tell me the difference between Cosi, Baci, Corner Bakery, Panera, Pret a Manger, and Au Bon Pain with a straight face? ) With the rest of the lunch spots gobbled up by the fast food establishments, Gold Coast retains an independent hole-in-the-wall appeal that feels uniquely "Chicago." The crowd was a mix of professionals and construction workers, as the food is pretty universal, and not trying to be something it's not. I had two Chicago style hot dogs after realizing that despite living in the Chicago area for nearly 16 years, that I had never had a Chicago Style Hot Dog (I've never been to the top of the Sears Tower either.) The dog is adorned with yellow mustard, tomato, a pickle spear, onions, relish, and hot peppers. While normally the smell and taste of yellow mustard grosses me out, here, it complemented (or was drowned out by) the stronger flavors of the veggies. Not more highly rated because two hot dogs, a small order of fries, and a diet pepsi that was about 80% ice ran almost $8, which i thought was kind of a ripoff for what's supposed to be a cheap lunch.
(3)Ed L.
Chicago-style hot dogs get hyped up but at the end of the day its just a plain old dog with a few additional vegetables, namely tomatoes and little peppers. The peppers give it a nice kick but it doesn't mask the mediocre quality of the dog itself. It's almost like a chick who wears lots of make-up; superficially looking/tasting good but not sure if it really is underneath. Gold Coast is one of the chains serving this overrated dog and the quality is comparable to the typical fast food joint. For my $4 I rather get 2 Costco, "no bullshit" hot dogs - great bun and dog - with the staple fixings.
(2)Ruthanne F.
Zero Stars to be exact. This was the worse meal we've had in years. Hardly any meat in the Italian Beef sandwich. The hamburger was precooked then put on the grill to heat up. It was crunchy from overcooking. The fries were inedible. Mushy inside and the taste was awful (maybe the frying oil was bad). Asked for water...we were given small cups to fill ourselves from a thermos-like container. No ice & the water was warm. Maybe the hot dogs are better, but we would NEVER eat there again.
(1)Dan C.
Went here a couple weeks ago. This is the first hot dog place I have been to since moving to Chicago (I know...). The hot dogs were pretty good, but I have a sneaking suspicion there are better out there. One plus: the fries were deliciously right out of the deep fryer! Kinda expensive for what it was. The big problem, though, was a lack of restrooms. I'm sure if I was about to pee my pants and begged with them they would have led me to an employee restroom, but I wasn't in the mood to make a big stink about it. It does, however, lose a couple stars because of it.
(2)Jenny L.
Nothing spectacular except they cut the ends of the hot dogs to look like flowers. Apart from the aesthetics, I can't say much. I ordered the Char Maxwell Street. While the poppy seed bun was soft, the hot dog wasn't as flavorful as much and I hoped. The topping were meh. The fries were a bit overly cooked. Such a shame because we sat across from a wall full of accolades and awards and press releases from their popular heyday.
(2)Donna M.
I go out of my way to come here for the chili cheese dogs and brats. The way they cut their brats and hot dogs is interesting and makes it fun to eat, and they will grill it to your liking. I get mine extra browned. The chili cheese dog is hands down the best one I've ever tried, they really load on the chili and cheese! It's very messy, but soooo good! The employees are always friendly, too, but they still work very quickly and get my order correct every time.
(5)Annie S.
I live right by here but I hardly ever go here... I guess I always forget it exists =P So anyways, they have really good hot dogs and the burgers are good too! I like the fries but I don't love them. What's really awesome is that Popeye's is in the same store! So if you want a burger and chicken, you can do that! hahahahaha, I sound like a fattie but I'm really not :)
(4)Susan D.
Y'know, my recent review of Wiener World in Pittsburgh yelp.com/biz/wiener-worl… reminds me of the time I learned to NEVER order ketchup on a hotdog. I know it was Gold Coast Dogs and I'm pretty sure it was this one. I was visiting my Chicago friend Catherine a few years ago and because she knows I love hotdogs, she suggested this place. Well I ordered a charbroiled dog with the dreaded tomato concoction on it. Trays dropped! Gasps of horror were emitted from all the connoisseurs dining on fine encased meats! Buzzes and hushed tones of "She ordered WHAT on her hotdog?". A silence fell on the establishment. The manager came out from behind the counter and without a word pointed towards the exit. I made my egress, head hung low, doing a walk of shame as if expelled from a military academy. Well no, it didn't happen that way, although Catherine and her friends did admonish me in the ways of Windy City dog consumption. And I do remember the yummy carcinogenic goodness of a chargrilled dog.
(4)Matthew W.
The guys behind the counter are fast, friendly and efficient. The food is another story. The temperature in the store was WAY too HOT on a cool day in Chicago. I had the beef "special" and was not happy with the beef that arrived. It was served on a small bun, was very plain (I had it without peppers or onions) and dry, and is just a plain small sandwich. I sometimes grab dinner at the Gold Coast stand at Union Station and the beef's are much larger and better ("juicier"). The fries were served unsalted in a large brown bag, and were hot and excellent in flavor and texture, the only issue is there were just not very many of them. The drink was small, and not enough for the dry sandwich that I had. There are tons of lunch spots around the location, and I wont be back to this one. Total - Beef special $7.09 + .92 tax = $7.91 PS. I think I forgot to mention the homeless guy sleeping at one of the four outside tables.
(1)D W.
I went here today w/ my Dad who decided to visit me downtown on my lunch. What a mistake we made stopping in here. No we didn't order hotdogs (maybe that was our second mistake). I got a turkey burger that looked like a playdoh patty and tasted just as bland. When I went to ask for something else b/c I refuse to eat nasty food, the older guy (jerk) at the register acted like he didnt know why I would not want the turkey burger. Ummmm, b/c I know a good burger when I taste one and that AINT IT. I got a charburger instead and he didnt want to give me cheese on it even though I had already paid for the more expensive turkey burger. HOW RUDE! Well, I got my cheese and half-ate the burger, nothing spectacular. My Dad wanted a refill and the guy tried to charge him a dollar after he gave it to him. Needless to say, we will never be back!!!!
(1)Mirchey A.
Get the charred Chicago style dog. YUMM!
(4)Nicolas H.
Seriously pretty gross. The hotdogs were lukewarm at best and the fries were definitely of the frozen variety. I had to ask twice for a side of cheese sauce, and he seemed pretty put out by the time he threw some into a paper holder and slapped it on my tray. The bun was pretty pathetic as well and fell apart halfway through the experience (apparently they save the poppy seed buns for the jumbo dogs?). Oh well, at least now I know...
(2)Vivian L.
I heard they had good Chicago style dogs here so we went and ordered a char red hot. The space is shared with a Popeye's and since it was Sunday afternoon, we got there right when they closed but the lady was so nice, she threw 2 dogs onto the grill for us anyways. I loved the fact that they grill them (remember, my favorite dog is the Costco hot dog). It was a bit on the salty side. The "works" is a hot dog on a poppy seed, soft, wonder bread consistency, the hot dog placed on top, the ends are cut to look like a flower, then this super green food colored relish is placed on top, chopped onions, actual slices of tomatoes (nice touch), mustard and celery salt. It wasn't bad but I still want to find an even better one here.
(3)Paulius N.
I like the char. I especially like the "Fleur de' Hotdog" oragami on the end of the tubes. The view is wonderfully gritty, not unlike the poppyseeds rolling off your bun. These are very good hotdogs.
(4)Rachel H.
When you need a pre-movie dog, and you need it now, Gold Coast will hit the spot. Good Chicago style dogs, though since I'm a total nitpicking brat, I will say that the celery salt wasn't as evenly distributed as possible, but I'm just being a jerk. It was tasty. The fries were so-so and if I came back I'd probably either get cheese fries or just two dogs and no fries. My pals and I had a great time feeding our faces, talking about hobos peeing in the Washington tunnel, and discussing the perfect bloody mary among other things. I think the other patrons were a little creeped out by us, but you know what, I'm a little creeped out by the fact that this place shares digs with a Popeye's which some of the other people in there definitely had ordered from.
(4)Amanda M.
The store itself is drab and depressing; the interior could really use a makeover. The seating counter has a large surface but the seats are bolted in the ground, unmovable and uncomfortable. I ordered the Chicago-style char dog and some fries. The hot dog itself was tasty, with a good snap, and being charred gave it an extra dimension of flavor. But, the toppings were lacking, especially the tomato (not a wedge, but a sad sagittally cut slice). I wanted more nuclear green relish and they could have been more liberal with the celery salt. I've had better Chicago style dogs in Florida (Mel's in Tampa). Not a very good effort on Gold Coast's part, they really just need fresher ingredients. The fries were made fresh, that's a plus, but desperately needed seasoning. They were also a bit too greasy. The prices are reasonable (for Chicago) that's something they have going for them. Wished I got the Popeye's instead (or found a better hotdog place).
(2)Ishea B.
If you're in the mood for something greasy that's sure to hit the spot (especially if you're hungover and struggling thru a seemingly never-ending day... lol) this place is perfect! Their burgers and hot dogs are fairly tasty and I'm a fan on the cheese fries. I wouldn't keep them in heavy rotation because it's not good on the waistline but their food will put a smile on your face.
(4)Michael S.
I was in the Loop last night around 6 pm, and hungry, although I didn't want to be hungry. A brief tour of mediocre establishments led me here to this old faithful. Cafe Baci: Besides overpriced, it was understaffed and crowded. NEXT. Subway: I actually waited in line and tolerated my feet sticking to the floor as I moved closer to the cash register; I ordered a Subway Melt, answered "yes" when the clerk asked if I wanted my MELT heated (I've been asked this before at Subway), but I left and left my sandwich there when the next barely English-speaking clerk put plain yellow mustard on the sandwich after I repeatedly asked for HOT MUSTARD. She didn't understand. NEXT Gold Coast Dogs: Perfect. I told the guy what he understood: Char Dog Chicago Style. Boom. Done. Delicious, comforting and cheaper than Cafe Baci or Subway would have been.
(5)Patrick B.
My first chicago dog experience - yes, I'm a fan. I'd get two dogs next time, with no fries. Around the corner from the bean at millenium park.
(3)Toni D.
I'm a fan of this place because of the awesome cheese fries and burgers. I'm not sure I've ordered anything else here. This place is fast and conveniently located near the EL.
(4)Tory A.
I didn't feel very good after putting these things down. My hot dogs were soppy and messy, somehow the staff "accidentally" added extra toppings to my hot dogs...as well as a whole extra hot dog to my order...and wouldn't purge it from my credit card. I was told these were "Chicago-style dogs." Well I certainly hope not!
(1)Frank B.
I've heard people claim that Chicago hot dogs must use neon green relish. I disagree, but if you really want neon green, this is one place you can get it. In all other respects, Gold Coast Dogs fails. Chicago dogs require relish, onions, peppers, and tomatoes. With fresh ingredients, they're a zippy treat, but at Gold Coast Dogs they're remarkably sparse and dull--even with the heavy celery salt they applied. My impression is that this is the McDonald's of Chicago dogs. Nice for tourists downtown, but the mild toppings and drippy chili-cheese aren't going to keep me coming back. Gold Coast Dogs is much cleaner than many of Chicago's hot dog dives, and it's in a prime location downtown, but if you care about tasty Chicago dogs, I would go elsewhere.
(2)Ian J.
This Gold Coast Dog is pretty good, and the first one I ever went to. Really, really tasty burgers (have to love a place that tops their burgers with classic hot dog toppings, pickle spear included) and mediocre fries. I do enjoy the Merkt's Cheddar squeezed on, and the burgers are always pretty juicy, thanks to perpetually soaking half-cooked in a broth bath. The dogs are okay, and the beef is "eh." The latter being a little flavorless and the the former being burnt to a crisp more often than not. I understand and embrace the "char" aspect, but they go a little overboard here. The knocking aspect of Gold Coast Dogs is that they are brutally inconsistent from store to store. The Wabash location is worlds apart from the one in Oglivie as is the one out in the 'burbs by O'Hare. It seems the one thing all the Gold Coasts have in common is a tendency to be a little overpriced. If you're achin' for a dog or burger in the east Loop, just wander over to Max's on Adams for better quality and a better price.
(3)Heather K.
Definitely the best place for char dogs in the Loop. I love how they slice the ends of the hotdogs so they curl up and get crispy during the cooking process. The fries are just aiiiiight but sometimes you just have to deal with whatever life throws your way, know what I mean? Gold Coast also wins the 2nd place award for "Most Adorable Use of Anthropomorphic Hotdogs in Company Logo." (1st Prize Winner = Superdawg).
(4)JJ A.
Cheap and authentic.
(3)Jon L.
Not impressed. Maybe this place was great when the reviews on the wall were posted circa 1993, Michael Sneed still looked like a woman and Hot Doug was taking his ACT exam....I didn't buy into the hype. My wife had an overcooked hotdog with toppings that belonged in a prenatal incubator. I had a gyro with 2 pieces of meat on it and unsalted plain pieces of potato passed off as fries. When I want a hot dog, I'll stick with portillos or hot dougs. For gyros, I'll stick to the places that throw half of a lamb on a pita like mickeys or nickys.
(1)Ian T.
Middle of the road chicago dog. Nothing spectacular but at least its pretty authentic. All too many places these days claiming to have Chicago dogs then point you toward the ketchup and mustard packages...
(3)Joel A.
When you watch TV shows about food in Chicago, what do they always mention... a Chicago style dog dragged through the garden! I was especially curious about that neon green relish. I was happy I got to try a Gold Coast dog, and as far as fast food goes, it's pretty good. It's not something I would go out of my way for the next time in town, though.
(3)Mateo S.
Its my own fault... I went in here craving a Chicago dog hungry enough to feign ignorance to the fact that Gold Coast Dog shares a space with Popeye's. Yes, that Popeyes. The fries: pallid and unsalted, dropped directly from freezer to oil. The dog itself: rubbery and overcooked. The toppings (usually my favorite part): a stingy dash of celery salt, a limp pickle and an anemic tomato. The hot peppers packed a gentle punch but not enough to save the experience. I pitied the gaggle of Japanese tourists beneath the wall of framed and breathless reviews (outdated?) and considered giving them directions to Byron's on Irving.
(1)Kathleen C.
This place is ok. Nothing special. Ordered a hot dog and cheese fries. Specifically asked for a Chicago style hot dog. When asked what I wanted, I said everything. But then he kept asking if I wanted relish, onions, tomatoes, etc. I was really annoyed until he asked if I wanted ketchup. NO WAY! Ketchup on my hot dog?! Are you kidding? I do have to say that the bun was great--perfectly steamed and not mushy or hard. Good job. Fries here are not great. Cheese that goes on top is gross. Pay for a cab and go to Portillos.
(2)Sue K.
When you gotta have that hot dog fix.
(4)Bill M.
This location next to a downtown parking garage is combined with a Popeye's. Go for the hot dogs with grilled onions, and the burgers are good too. The cheddar fries are tasty since the hearty cheddar is not just a melted gooey sauce.
(4)Matt B.
I ordered the Italian beef/sausage combo. They fixed it up and then put it in the microwave.
(2)Rebekah S.
READ THIS NOW AND DELIBERATE LATER: GO HERE IF YOU WANT THE TRUE CHICAGO HOT DOG! We went to three well-rated locally-lauded hot dog places, and this place was the best. It's down the street from Millennium Park (although somewhat difficult to find due to construction), perfect for a to go order to be consumed at Crowne Fountain. Very lo-fi hole in the wall style food court, perfect for the authentic vibe. Order the char polish dog with everything on it, that's it.
(5)Joshua A.
I rarely give a place 1 star but this place deserves it, and they have the nerve to sell Italian beef. I should have known this place sucked when it's 12 noon and Im the only ordering yet there's lines at all the other restaurants...It's not rocket science when making a hotdog- for starters how about serving it HOT
(1)DJ B.
These guys are a RIP for a dog and fries for $6.50. Dog was luke warm and so was the service. Normally a good dog but not here!
(1)Ron B.
Great, fast Gold Coast dogs. Charred to sear in the flavor, crispy on the edges and juicy once you break the skin. Here's where I learned that ketchup does not belong on a dog but tomato, a pickle, and celery salt fit in perfectly. Don't really like the fries though, so I usually just get two dogs. Always leave happy.
(4)Trey C.
I had the Wednesday special, which was 2 Chicago style dogs and fries...I thought it was very good. Being in Northwest Arkansas, I've obviously not eaten a lot of Chicago-style hot dogs, so I'm far from an expert. The line was long, but went fast. It was a little strange being in a spot with Popeyes, but seriously...you're eating a hot dog. Someone recently said that the prices were too high and said they got 2 hot dogs, fries and a drink for $7. I thought that was pretty inexpensive myself.
(4)J F.
Damn I wish I hadn't given it one star. I officially hate this place. It's in a tiny little joint sharing a space with popeye's chicken. I should have known something was going to go wrong when I got into it with the woman who took my order. Having working in CS since I was 15, I believe that I am always respectful to my patrons. So when I encountered this griller with an attitude I brushed it off...maybe she was having a bad day. I placed my order with her and moved on to the cashier, a guy that I have encountered before, and there I am encountering another jacked up attitude. Not only is he tudy but he's yelling at me because he can't hear what I am saying to him (ordering a combo to go with my Maxwell Polish). I was in shock and felt that I had done something wrong, so I paid and sat in the corner like a little child. I waited for my food to cook and picked it up when it was finished. It was awful, cold, and so not worth $6.95. This was by far the worst part of my day! I will never go there again.
(1)Jeremy B.
this place sucks - eat a piece of dog shit off the street and save your money
(1)Da J.
Had my first 'Chicago-style' dog here. It's convenient to the train and tasty. No complaints!
(4)Pip G.
We shared a Chicago style dog, and it was perfectly fine, if a tad on the small side. The fries were only okay, and the soda was a bit watered down. I would probably order the charred red dog instead, as the ones I saw coming out looked really good. I did love the neon green relish, and it was probably better than the Clark St. dog I had earlier in the week, but still, would I remember it as a Chicago institution? Probably not.
(3)Dee W.
Another great Chicago hot dog location - they char-gril their dogs instead of steaming them and they have an unique tactic to make the ends of the hot dog curl out.
(4)Torry S.
For a place that bill's itself as being a clue collar hotdog joint, the portions at this place are really bad for the price of items other than hotdogs. Polishes are standard and there's nothing tha makes this place really standout, many times I intended to go here and just walked a few steps and just got some popeye's(which is the most expensive popeye's I've ever been to appearantly.) Anyone who attends to go here I suggest avoiding it all together unless you're new to chicago or a tourist who just wants to try a chicago styled hotdog.
(2)Paul L.
Yum. This was also my first Chicago-style dog, and I thought it was very tasty. I put everything on it except mustard. I didn't ask for ketchup because I always read that it's insulting if you do. I'm glad I didn't because the hot dog really didn't need it at all. Now if only I had a deep-dish pizza in Chicago. Next time though.
(4)David R.
I would NOT recommend this place. The service is rude and the food is mediocre at best and the management is a joke. I went into the store and they told me to take a seat. After sitting there for 20 minutes, I told them that my children were hungry and would like to order. I was advised to go to take-out. Well I took their advice and left. Save your money and go somewhere else.
(1)Sarah S.
Pretty gross, unfortunately. The hot dog was not hot, like it was not warmed up and the bun was soggy. I was pretty disappointed as this was my last meal in Chicago and wanted to experience a great Chicago style hot dog but it was not good at all. I hear Hot Doug's is awesome but they were closed!
(1)Danvin R.
Came here on a recommendation from friends for real Chicago style dogs. Pretty good. I ordered a "red hot" and it was definitely red... and somewhat hot. There is something about the hot dogs here that definitely put it above any I've had before. Seating is a lil' scarce so come early or take it to go. Gotta love the fast and efficient service as well.
(4)Wade M.
Man, I love this place. Whenever I'm in this part of the Loop I feel compelled to come here. The dogs are great---if you're hungry, I recommend getting two, one steamed and one char-grilled. They're both great in their own way. Anything else here is reliable too; I've had the cheeseburger and the Italian beef, and both were thoroughly satisfying. SPECIAL BONUS: If you're with a friend who's not feeling the beef vibe and is in more of a chicken mood, this place shares its location with a Popeye's Chicken! That's such a dream-team combination that I can't even stand it. I wish my body was capable of handling hot dogs and fried chicken at the same time.
(5)K T.
cheddar charred was good but not the best in the city. expensive and slow BUT I'm a sucker for nacho cheese so id go back.
(3)Brandi B.
Well-priced, crispy little doggies. Love 'em.
(4)Cate R.
Great Chicago-style hot dog - don't ask for ketchup! The building this is in is a bit...icky? but the hot dogs are very authentic.
(4)Natalie B.
If you have a hankering for a Chicago style dog, this does the trick. It will satiate your hunger for the 'dog, but I wouldn't say it was spectacular. If you are passing by, it's not a bad place to pick up some food.
(3)Lina V.
I don't know what everyone is complaining about. No I'm not a native but I brought my friend who was visiting from NY to try this place out. We both thought the Chicago hot dogs from this place was damn good. I would definitely come back here to try their hot dogs.
(4)