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Spike's Junkyard Dogs
Category: Restaurants Hot Dogs Hot Dogs [Edit]
108 Brighton Ave(between Harvard Ave & Linden St)
Allston, MA 02134
Neighborhood: Allston/Brighton
(617) 254-7700
- Nearest Transit:
-
Brighton Ave @ Linden St (193, 57, 57A)
Harvard Ave @ Brighton Ave (66)
Brighton Ave @ Harvard Ave (193, 57, 57A, 66)
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Late Night, Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
188 reviews for Spike's Junkyard Dogs
Review Highlights
"Prices are excellent and the curly fries are awesome."
(in 24 reviews)
"The wings are great as well as the Texas Ranger Dog."
(in 9 reviews)
"Hotdogs--these hotdogs are a great idea."
(in 16 reviews)
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188 reviews in English
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Review from David L.
Allston-Brighton, MA
10/30/2011
Well, yes. These are very good dogs. Not spicy, but a full flavor without all the garlic some dogs have in them that kids don't like, or is used to cover the flavor of cheap ingredients. These are not wan, tan looking, but nicely pink inside, probably less fat than you'd expect, and they taste, shockingly, like beef... but are mild and balanced flavored. The casing is not a classic snappy "natural" casing, which is probably so that the toppings don't go flying when chomping down on one of these loaded pupsters.
The roll is unique, delicious, has a nice yeastiness and flavor and does not disintegrate with even sloppy toppers like chili n cheese. Toasted, it is a bit thick, but it's a decent balance in lightness and firmness with just a bit of chewyness to complement ur dawg.
This was my first visit, and I've heard people talk about this place.
The decor is a mix of "olde stylee" hubcaps and tin signs and polaroids of people who ate 6 or more dawgs (veggie ones included) and survived to tell the tale. Yep, there are a few women in the mix. :)
The feel, otherwise, if very like a manhattan or brooklyn pizza joint: counter along the window with stools, a couple of booths, a center island with the most basic condiments, napkins and a sink! Yep, a sink to wash your "paws" before eating your dawgies with having to wait for the unisex, pretty clean bathroom.
This is a two person operation, so it's not quite "fast food," but is reasonable, since it's made to order. I got a signature Junkyard Dog and a Chili Cheese Dog, supposedly their top sellers, I've read.
Both were very good, though I think adding strong onions to the Junkyard would perfect the flavors. The mustard is a very relaxed dark style, maybe Plochmans. Everything seems very fresh, the rolls, included. I wish there had been more chili and cheese on the C-n-C Dog, which I'm used to having to eat with great care with a spoon, bib, napkins, wetsuit, etc... it's supposed to be a bloody mess, and fun to try to corral. This one was messless. I guess that's good for some people. It was tasty, but could have been spicier in the chili.
The dogs aren't cheap, but I don't think they are "cheap," either. The ingredients do show care in what they serve. Service is in classic Coney Island style paper "boats" holding your dogs and your fries.
I tried the classic curley fries. There were pretty good, I must say. I'm not usually a curly fry guy, but these were pretty good and not too salty, and cooked just right. I tried the rings, too, but I think they're frozen and they were cooked well and all, but... well, not special. Not bad, but not special.
There were two people working: One girl was doing mostly the fryo and prep, and the guy was taking orders, shmoozing (quite adeptly) and serving, which is done to your table (!). Anything else you have to shag: you get your own utensils, napkins, ketchup, etc from the center island, and soda is one sized cup plopped on the counter when you order. The fountain machine is to the side, and thankfully has Pepsico products. I like Pepsi better than Coke. So shoot me.
Instead of doing it REALLY right, this location had WROR playing at decent volume: the 70s/80s mix was okay, even though the age range of visitors here is kids to middle aged. I think a satellite non-commercial station with a really broad mix of hits from a wider range would be even better, but in their defense, ROR did play "Doin' the TIME WARP" while I was there, so I had to smile.
The guy behind the counter was very affable, friendly and found something unique to chitachat about with every person and seems to actually enjoy what he's doing, which is unusual in a "fast" food setting, and took his break and actually ate a custom frankendog and fries. If he's still enjoying the fare there, that's a good sign.
Interestingly, the place did not have a nitrate smell to it like so many places selling dawgs do... that is VERY worth noting.
It's small, can get crowded and move fast and just a bit of fun without trying way too hard. You should walk your dawgs here for some of their dawgs. You likely won't get out for $5, but you won't go broke, either.
Try it, you'll like it... and I did mention it, but will again: there be VEGGIE DOGS, which I'll try one next time. Hopefully it's worthy!
Bring your kids. They like it. -
Review from Peter D.
Philadelphia, PA
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
Not that impressed. I think a lot of people only come here because Boston joints close early and besides McDonald's (...), BU kids will go here to get their munchies on.
I ordered the "Junkyard Dog" with the works and really besides the fresh bun, I do not think paying $4 for this dog is worth it AT ALL. I was better off going to McDonald's and saving $2.
That being said, I got the dog for free after finding a $10 bill on Brighton Avenue. Pretty Awesome, but otherwise I'd avoid this place. There are better hot dogs to be had, but that means you likely have to make them. -
Review from Matthew S.
Boston, MA
12/29/2011
After a few months of not really posting any reviews, I'm back and ejaculating truth from every orifice.
So after hearing so much about Spike's, we decided to drop by there one afternoon and see what the big deal was. The restaurant itself is very small with only a few seats, but it's a hot dog joint so that's not really an issue. On the walls all around you you'll see polaroids of people who have partaken in a contest to see how many hot dogs they could down in a certain time period. Some of the pictures go back pretty far in the years, lending a certain nostalgia to the place. The menu itself is MASSIVE. If you enjoy hot dogs of any variety I can't imagine you'd have a hard time finding something on the menu to enjoy.
As for the food itself, I enjoyed it. I'll eat virtually anything that used to be living and now isn't. The happier the animal was being alive, the more I enjoy eating its carcass. The dogs were decent, I wouldn't call them amazing, but they were definitely good and I enjoyed eating them. They're not served on a usual hot dog bun, it's more of a hoagie or grinder roll and was actually a nice touch. Their spike's mustard was delicious, just a tad bit of heat that I enjoy. The fries were delicious as well, probably some of the best I've had. The pickle was crisp as well, and you know how much I enjoy a crisp pickle.
Now you may be thinking to yourself "so why only 3 stars?" Hold your horses, hoss. I'm not done yet, I haven't covered the staff that was there. I used to work in restaurants, I managed one. I wouldn't have hired either of the people working there to medical waste up off the side of the road, let alone serve food to others. The entire time we were there they were SHOUTING to each other and screaming out some annoying song (some club song, I forget which one. Just pick your favorite Pitbull song; perhaps the 'I've Made Millions of Dollars but I'm Such a F***ing Moron my Credit is Still too Poor to Even Get a Loan to Buy a Honda Civic' Remix, featuring Daddy Yankee & Sean Paul. Ever been in a loud stadium for a concert and the music is so loud your hearing actually distorts? That's how loud these harpy hags were. Did I already call them harpy hags earlier in this paragraph? I don't feel like rereading it, if I used that term twice I'll refund your money for this review. Anyway, these ladies were screaming, singing, and then calling friends on their cellphones and shouting and dropping F-Bombs to them for the 10 minutes we could stand being in the restaurant. There were a few other couples in the place eating when we arrived, and these two idiots that were working managed to annoy every single one of them into leaving. I'm going to go out on a limb and assume that these are not staff that are regularly there. I'm also not going to say I'd never go back; I'd like to try more of the food, but if I walk in and see either of these tools working there I'm immediately turning around. Idiots. -
Review from Frannie Z.
Haverhill, MA
12/28/2011
I wasn't that impressed with Spike's dogs. I've had them bookmarked for awhile since they came up in my thread about where to find the best dogs. I gave 'em a whirl and they disappointed.
A few plusses:
The dog is good sized.
They heat it up bun and all before they hand it over so it's toasty warm.
The bread is good (as bread).
The minuses:
The dogs are skinless.
The bread overpowers the dog.
The chili is mushy canned tasting.
The dog is pretty bland.
Spikes won't cut the mustard for this fan of encased processed meat byproducts. -
Review from Barbara A.
East Watertown, MA
1/2/2012
Meh ... I think if you want to read my review, it will probably be the same as Frannie Z's. I have been here a few times now and I have to say it does not impress me much. I love the wise-ass server that was cracking jokes with Frannie - he was very knowledgeable and clearly loved working at this place.
Although the bread was great, it did overwhelm the flavors of the dog. The dog is special made for Spike's and it was good, but I also like a little crisp bite to my dog which this did not have. The fries were good - sometimes these places concentrate on the specialty, they don't pay attention to the extras - but it was not enough to make me trek out here again.Listed in: My "Watertown" tour with…
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Review from Allison V.
Tewksbury, MA
2/5/2012
I ordered a sizable order on Foodler, and was delivered only part of the order. When we called them regarding this, they claimed they had no record of the order and not only refused to deliver the missing portion of our meal, but also refused to refund us the money we had paid for the meal we didn't receive.
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Review from Wendy F.
Boston, MA
12/29/2011
Props to Spike's for offering Veggie Dogs for the non-meat eaters. However, staff at the Allston location were obnoxious. Singing, dancing around, hooting and hollering, chatting on the telephone about some bar/club they were going to later. Very unprofessional. I couldn't even concentrate on reading the menu. I was surprised that the two couples already in the joint stayed long enough to eat. However, they had gone by the time I left. Good thing it doesn't take very long to eat a hot dog. Bread is not your usual bun which is interesting and tasty. Prices are reasonable: roughly $7 for a dog, fries, and a drink. I would like to go back but never again during weekday lunch/mid-late afternoon hours.
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Review from Jonathan Y.
Stoneham, MA
1/26/2012
It's ok. I've never had a great meal from here. Just ok. Not worth a special trip by any means, but if you want a quick bit then this is the place to go.
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Review from Stefanie O.
Boston, MA
11/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
One of the few things I miss about living in Allston is my past proximity to Spikes. Their buffalo dog is one of my favorite foods; add to that an order of their poodle fries and I am one happy camper. The buns are fresh and quality, which is a nice considering the dog could do the talking and the bun could just be there. Any way you could want to eat a hot dog, Spikes has thought of it, and if you aren't a meat-eater their veggie dogs are actually delicious (you know, for a fakie). The dude behind the counter is always super nice, even late at night and having to deal with drunk college kids, which is a gift unto itself. I should probably start taking another way home to stop by another one of their locations to get my fix every once in a while.
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Review from Lindsay P.
Pepperell, MA
11/28/2011
They just opened a Burlington Mall location at some point in the last year or so. I went today because there was a sign for veggie dogs. Must say it was actually good! Never thought I would try or like one. The clerk even warned me that the fries were cooked in the same oil as chicken fingers in case I was strongly vegan. What a cool and polite staff for doing that! I was impressed. My fiancé had one negative which was that he thought portions were small.
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Review from Ambrose C.
Boston, MA
I have been to this place a few times to get their hot dog meal special, which is that you can get a special hot dog with fries and a drink for almost $8. For $.25 extra, you can get a bottle of root beer instead of a paper cup of soda. The bottle of root beer, according to the guy that works there, is locally made. Prices are kind of high, expect to pay at least $3.50 for a hot dog, which is probably less than 15 cm long, but more than 8 cm. Although prices for hot dogs are a little high, they definitely cost less than probably getting a hot dog at Fenway Park while watching a baseball game.
Hot dogs are decently plump and tasty. I have not eaten many hot dogs recently, but these hot dogs are definitely better than the Oscar Mayer or Hebrew National hot dogs that you would get from your local supermarket. They are probably better than the Nathan's hot dogs served at highway rest stops in New York or in New Jersey, but bear some resemblance to the hot dogs that you probably would get at a 7-Eleven convenience store.
What makes these hot dogs different from the typical hot dog that you may get from other places is how they are served. Instead of a typical hot dog roll, they use a French baguette. The baguettes are decently good, chewy on the inside and have a decent crisp on the outside. I had a Spike's Junkyard Dog, and I liked the peppers and mustard. It made the hot dog tastier. Another hot dog I had was the Chili variety. It was also decently good, I liked the cheese on it.
Fries were okay, had the crispiness and the slight saltiness that make fries almost addicting to eat. The root beer they serve is fairly refreshing, and I would say a better alternative than the fountain sodas.
The guy who works there during the lunch hours seems to be really nice and friendly, and knows how to handle customers. Interior is covered with pictures of people who ate a lot of hot dogs. It's also covered with car parts as well, which gives this place a "junkyard" look. Service could be a little more effective, average wait time was probably 8-10 minutes.
Overall, this is not a bad place to get some hot dogs for lunch but it's not high on my recommendations unless you want to do the Spike's hot dog challenge where you get a free t-shirt after eating at least 6 or 7 hot dogs. If anyone asks me about where I can find decent hot dogs, I would probably take them to this place. -
Review from Jose U.
South San Francisco, CA
5/26/2011 3 photos
Here's another review that I lagged on. This place saved one of our nights visiting Boston. I had been traveling with my friend and it was our second evening in the East Coast. She had arranged to have dinner with some friends of hers, but the outting was poorly planned and we had to scramble to find a place to eat after her friends bailed... late at night, in a neighborhood we didn't know...on foot. After wandering into a more or less commercial area, walking past a few bars and closed restaurants...in silenced contempt, we happened upon Spike's (cue the angelic voices, white doves and streaming light shining down from the heavens).
Not only was this place open late night, but the prices were reasonable, and the hot dogs were meaty and flavorful. I had a Texas Ranger and a Chili Cheddar, while my friend had fries and some pretty yummy chicken wings. The hot dogs were exactly what I needed to be able to look my friend in the eye again. Spike's saved our friendship ;)
I wish we had a place like Spike's here in the Peninsula, we have Costco hot dogs, Hot Dog on a Stick and Fatt Dog but no...they don't quite compare to the flavor of Spike's. We liked it so much that the Spike's to go bag became the official mascot of our East Coast trip, making it into several pictures at well known landmarks we visited the rest of the trip. -
Review from Jen S.
Boston, MA
5/4/2011
I shouldn't be Yelping right now. In fact, I should be writing an introduction for a paper due tomorrow so I can then start revising ANOTHER paper that was due today, but the class was given an extension til Friday. So instead I am Yelping and looking at my sleeping cats Chaucer and Dante (that are quite possibly better than your cats, especially with the names they have- not Fo Fo or Tiger or Kitty Kitty or Meow Meow- they have real names).
So as I waste time, I thought I'd review Spikes.
I REALLY don't come because I don't like hotdogs, but they make pretty good hotdogs (and good buns) even though I don't really like them (if that makes sense.. no? oh well), and my husband really likes them, so they get 4 stars. I mean if I HAD to eat a hotdog (especially on those rare occasions my husband decides to be boss of the relationship for the day), I'd only come here!!! Yes I would!
Even though I don't like hotdogs, I let my husband go any time he wants, which is usually when I have class from 7-9:30. Or when I abandon him to eat dinner with friends (yes a married couple does things separately OH MY GOD).
I also recommend this place to tourists and people who like hot dogs.
So if you like hot dogs, go.
Their fries aren't that good, though.
I'd prefer to eat the bun by itself (they're not storebought yuck crap. I believe they are homemade ..er...restaurant made?)
They serve gross pepsi products.I loathe pepsi. I loathe it so much I won't even capitalize the p. Yeah.
And if you eat enough hotdogs, you get your picture on the Wall of Fame, or whatever they call it.
I wish I liked hotdogs BECAUSE of this place. Alas. My tastebuds prefer things like Chick Fil A, sandwiches from Sebastian's (I won't yelp review that place yet-- I still have to go one more time!!) , wings, pizza, pao de quejo, or pastelzinhos, or kung pao chicken or spicy basil chicken, etc etc.
Anyway, hope you enjoy. -
Review from Kristeen A.
Medford, MA
10/28/2011
Great friendly service. I loved my dog and fries.
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Review from Cassie H.
3/14/2011
So I had a craving for a good chili dog with cheese, and I have always been curious about Spike's, so I convinced my husband to give it a chance. He wasn't in the mood for a hot dog, so he got some chicken tenders with barbecue sauce. I ordered two of the chili cheese hot dogs and we split an order of the curly fries...
The curly fries were alright, but they lacked any punch to make them memorable. I'd have enjoyed them so much more if they were seasoned curly fries...
My husband's chicken tenders were average, but they were served cool instead of hot and crispy.
My chili cheese dogs were the biggest let down. Not enough cheese and chili to make me lick my fingers, and the hot dog itself was just heavy. I felt like I had eaten something to satisfy a craving that only made me (1) feel guilty and (2) wish I had made them at home myself...
We won't be coming back... next time I'm craving a chili cheese dog, I'll just hit up the grocery store and make my own. -
Review from Anna R.
Cambridge, MA
6/23/2011
Decent hot dogs, but from the South End, not worth the drive.
The buns are more like baguette pieces, and good but very thick.
The hot dogs are good quality, thick, all-beef. I prefer a natural casing and a little snap in my dogs, but these were definitely good.
Very cute, themed, family atmosphere. It's a tiny space but kids would love it. -
Review from Jonny C.
2/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
If you want a mega hot dog, in any conceivable method of preparation, with fresh toppings served in a no frills environment, than Spike's will not let you down. If you want something else, then go somewhere else.
Note- these are huge and are served on submarine style rolls, hence the $3.50ish price tag. Don't plan on taking down 3 of these guys or you will be bad shape.
Skip the fries, they are always undercooked. -
Review from James O.
Boston, MA
7/1/2011
I just went here today after walking past it countless times and staring at its quirky decor. It's a very small diner on the corner of the street. Walls are lined with polaroids of people that have conquered the 6 hot dog challenge. Car parts lie around as colorful accents, loading this little junkyard with a lot of attitude.
The windows allow for decent people watching; unfortunately these windows also allow others look in on you as you devour one of Spike's famous hot dogs.
I'm not much of a hot dog person and I can't say I've had many in my life, but as far as they are concerned, I'm pretty sure this is as gourmet as it gets. I had the Junkyard Dog (the original recipe). In just a few minutes the two people behind the counter handed over a perfectly sized hot dog with generous fresh toppings and some brown mustard. The dog sits inside more of a baguette type bread than traditional hot dog bun, which adds a nice crunch.
I want to emphasize the freshness as well. It didn't taste greasy, and the sausage itself tasted like REAL meat.
For a quick bite to eat, you can't beat it. Fresh, fast, and reasonably priced! -
Review from Jules M.
Wakefield, MA
3/22/2011
Wow, I can't believe I haven't reviewed Spike's before now. I love this place. I have tried almost half of the menu and can't wait to try more.
I usually get two dogs when I go, a junkyard dog and then one I've never had. I didn't expect much from the Rueben Dog but I was in for a surprise. It was fantastic! A few other stand outs: Lonely Guy Dog, Big Dave's Deluxe, Patriot Dog, Texas Ranger, and the All American. The most I could ever eat was 3 dogs so no picture or t-shirt for me. Oh well, I still enjoy watching other people wreck themselves.
I take a lot of friends here when they visit from out of town and I can honestly say they all love this place and always want to go back.
Also, I love that I have to pass Spike's on my way home from work. Aw shucks, the T is delayed? Let's stop at Spike's! -
Review from Brian B.
Brighton, MA
3/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Always Fantastic and Right on the Money!
I'm a very adventurous eater, and I enjoy cuisine from around the world, but once in a while I get the craving for some good, old fashioned junk food.
That's when it's time for Spike's! The hot dogs are always delicious, and they never let me down. There's something for everyone on the menu, and by something I mean a hot dog or veggie dog.
I live a few minutes away, and if I call ahead my order is ready to go 95% of the time. On the rare occasions when it's not, my wait is never longer than 5 minutes.
To the people complaining about anything else on the menu...honestly? The place is called Spike's Junkyard DOGS. Why bother ordering anything else? I have personally ordered the chicken sandwich before just to try it, and guess what! It wasn't that good! At least not as good as one of the 9672513 delicious hot dogs on the menu.
Use your brains people! If you're not going to order a hot dog, don't bother with Spikes! If you don't even like hot dogs, quit jivin' and keep walking!
If what you're after is an amazing hot dog with a plethora of topping choices, you're at the right spot! -
Review from Lindsay C.
Boston, MA
9/27/2010
MmMMmmMm... HOTDOGS! Okay, I don't eat beef or pork but, that doesn't matter here at Spike's! They have the veggie dog and it's fantastic! I like mine with Kraut and Mustard like a bratwurst.
The service is good and extends to the other locations. I have alos tried their chicken sandwhich and it hit the spot. My Dad and little brothers came in for a visit and I wanted to take them someplace "different" and they loved Spike's!
I'm a fan! -
Review from Chris O.
Lynn, MA
10/7/2009
The service here couldn't be any worse. When you get to the counter to order, you're immediately confronted by a jaded crusty Allstonite who thinks he is awesome because he has been living in Boston for a year at most and moved here from some town in the middle of nowhere. They act like you are inconveniencing them because you want to spend your money there. The only reason they are still in business is because they have a crowd of drunk college kids in the area that could care less about decent service.
I strongly advise everyone to skip this place. -
Review from Jenny N.
9/30/2007
Sad to say, I wasn't impressed. I came in all excited to try one of these famous dogs and left feeling disappointed and smelling like greasy stale french fries.
I ordered the chili cheddar dog, which was surprisingly substantial in size thanks to the pillowy fresh bun in which it was encased. They get a bonus point for this choice of hot dog carrier although I kinda thought it would be a better holder for meatballs and sauce... Anyway, the dog itself was pretty bland despite the gooey (good) mozzarella (bad--I thought this was was supposed to come with cheddar??) and skimpy spoonful of chili, which tasted like it came straight out of a can. How can people eat 6 or more of these? The Polaroids of champion hot dog eaters were quite amusing.
But to be honest, the disappointment of this junkyard experience was so overwhelming that I had to console myself with Herrell's ice cream afterwards... -
Review from Steve s.
MA
5/7/2008
Let me be clear about this review, I do not eat meat and especially hot dogs. I will eat a piece of fish occasionally, but mostly fruits and veggies. Ma used to serve me meat as a child, and her inability to cook has scarred me from most desirable cuisine
Now that I set the expectation accordingly, I lost a bet with the sales staff and since everyone knows my distaste for this stuff, I had to eat a hot dog from Spikes...a dog with chili and cheese no less
With images of mad cow, slaughtered cattle and dear old ma(actually a very nice woman) searing an image through my brain, I ate this dog with trepidation...Have to admit, it was not that bad...The bread was toasted nicely and the cheese was fresh....The chili beans were tasty as well....The meat...well at least I wasn't sick
This place must be Nirvana for a hot dog fan -
Review from Roger L.
Allston, MA
11/20/2006
Excellent.
My Suggestion: Ask for the "Grind Core"
it's the grinder dog (hot dog with pickled peppers, onions etc) plus a slice of provolone melted on top.
with fries and a cup of iced tea... $5.25. -
Review from Karlis B.
5/28/2008
I grew up eating hot dogs without a damn second thought. I used to wrap it in a paper towel and heat it up in the microwave. Then I cut it up and ate it with Saltines and yellow Cheddar cheese. It was DAMN GOOD.
Then I grew up and people who were self-righteously healthy would tell me that hot dogs were full of scraps and not good for you and that it was gross that I ate them. I know hot dogs aren't made from filet mignon and I like them anyway! I think it's gross that people eat eggplant and try to pass it off as hearty as meat. It's not! So there! Mind yo' bidness.
I'm so glad I live 2 seconds away from Spikes. It's my childhood snack all growed up. I love me a Junkyard dog. The tomato and banana peppers add a hit of freshness that compliments that salty, all beef dog so well. When I'm a real glutton (which is about 47% of the time) I get sauerkraut and chili with cheese. And I don't feel the need to justify that either.
The other day, I got a veggie Junkyard Dog. My roommate was gloating about how the veggie version was just as flavorful as the meat one. What in the hell?! No it ain't! My tongue did a double take when that cardboard thing (without any condiments, mind you) hit it. I made sure every bite after that had something on it.
I'll stick to my beef dogs, thanks. And thank you Spike's for being there on my way from the gym when I'm absolutely starving.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from karen c.
Boston, MA
4/29/2008
I'm pretty sure I shaved 5 years off of my life expectancy when I moved in across the street from Spike's, but it's so worth it. I have stumbled (literally) into Spike's more times than I can count after a wild night at the Kell's lol...you'll NEVER see me at the Kell's. See me after a night at The Field.
For like 5 bucks you can get a hot dog, fries, and a drink and avoid being the pukes from drinking too much after a long night of boozin.
I will review in bullet points for maximum efficacy:
-Buns-toasty and amazing. they don't get soggy and encompass the entire hot dog for maximum bunnery
-Hot dog (meat)-not overly spiced, so you're not burping up hot dog breath for the next 15 hours
-Hot dog (veggie)-flavorful and filling. You won't miss meat (if you do) and if you don't miss meat, then you'll just feel warm and fuzzy on the inside.
-The service is awesome. I mean, how could you NOT be happy slinging hot dogs all day, but these dudes are funny and hilarious
I heart Spike's
I miss Spike's
Come to NY?Listed in: I miss Boston
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Review from Tim C.
Boston, MA
3/2/2009
I have been to Spike's twice, and had a take-out hot dog from there once. I love hot dogs, and I actually think theirs are terrible. It was dry and chewy, and as I was eating it I thought, "I'm going to be sick later." But I was hungry and I hadn't paid for it.
The two times I have been there, the staff was rude and inattentive. There were no customers after us either time, yet they still ignored us until we told them for the fourth time that the soda machine didn't seem to be working. I also had to reach over the counter (and the stupid car door in the way) to get my own cup, since they didn't give me one and didn't come back to the counter when I waited to ask for one.
Besides hot dogs I have had their buffalo tenders, which were forgettable, and the steak and cheese which consisted of dry steak and huge chunks of undercooked onions. I tried some of my friend's soggy cheese fries and was not impressed.
On top of all of this, they were listening to Playground Radio, which did not enhance the experience. -
Review from Jeff D.
7/27/2009
If you are in the mood for a hot dog, this is the place to go in Boston. I don't go here often, but when I do I usually make it count and fast for an afternoon so I can order two different types of dogs and not feel guilty scarfing them down in about ten minutes.
My personal favorite is the dog with sauerkraut and mustard (sorry, I don't remember the name) and for my second dog I usually just randomly select. In fact is they had a spinning hot dog Wheel of Fortune in here I'd use it every trip.
Never had the fries, never had the sides. No point. I'm there for a hot dogs. Period. -
Review from Shannon S.
Somerville, MA
1/24/2007
I'm not a big hotdog person. I don't think there are many occasions in which I ever go. YES. Hotdogs.
However, when I'm walking in Allston mid-day or I'm coming home from a party a little drunkish and I see that beautiful Spikes Hotdog in Allston open until 1am--I think YES. Hotdogs--these hotdogs are a great idea. They're plump, all beef, delicious, cheap, and come in several exciting varieties. They also have a cool little sink/napkin/ketchup station making it easy to get the stuff you need after placing your order.
Personally, I'm a fan of the Baked Bean Hotdog, The Patriot dog and that one with Chili on it. I think it's sad they don't list all the dogs at the Hynes location which makes this Spikes FAR superior. Also, it's right next to Infusions Tea Spa making this my favorite corner on the planet.
I can't eat more than one an a half of these. They're only 2-3 bucks. The service is pretty fast. There aren't many places to sit but people eat quickly, so that's a plus. -
Review from Kathleen Y.
Astoria, NY
6/29/2007
Three people I was with order veggie hot dogs.
I order a regular hot dog and the lame kids behind the counter applaud me.
Summary: Hot dogs from a street vendor taste better and being served by snide hipsters just doesn't cut it. -
Review from Alec C.
Allston-Brighton, MA
11/9/2010
There isn't much to say about Spike's. They make, by far and away, the best hot dogs that I have ever tasted. They are amazing. Amazing in that way that makes my arteries feel like they are going to burst, but in a good way. Texas Ranger (add a touch or ranch dressing) is my personal favorite.
Minus one star for being cash only. Seriously? Cash only? In 2010? Not good guys.
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UPDATED:
I just got a personal message from the manager of Spikes telling me that they have started excepting CCards.
Spikes, you just got bumped to a 5. Thank you. -
Review from Mats K.
Cambridge, MA
5/2/2006
I've been to three different Spikes restaurants, this one, and two in the Providence area.
The hot-dogs are good, but I definitely don't understand the hype. They are, well.... Hot dogs. -
Review from T L.
Boston, MA
10/25/2006
damn shame i wasted almost 10 bucks on this. well all the hype was clearly a disapointment. I have heard about spikes for quite some time, toted as one of bostons best dogs. boy are they wrong.
A few things, the hot dog is not grilled or cooked any way special, it is on rollers like 7-11 or ikea, which are a fraction of the price and much better (FYI 7-11 changes their hot dogs every hour according to the store manager) anywho the consistentsiy of the dog is thick and has no snap, it is a better quality meat im sure, but who wants that when they eat a hot dog, it can be frog ass meat for all I care, as long as it tastes good. the fries i got were cold too, but prob just a mistake; The bun is entirely too large and the meat gets lost inside.
I do not recommend, go to fenway, or a streat vendor and get yourself a real hotdog, i am biased cause i love regular old hotdogs and sausages (nothing too fancy) from a ballpark or vendor;
Spikes is located near sunset bar and grill off harvard st.
funky old school design, cool decals, limited seating,
http://www.spikesjunky...
2 out of 10 -
Review from Bradley D.
Portland, OR
7/15/2008
Everyone who comes to Allston and Boston always wants to go to Spike's and I groan every time. The first few times I enjoyed it, but the more you eat it the more disgusting it gets. It's cheap and somewhat decent for the price I guess but I don't recommend eating it and then going out for a night of heavy drinking. SO many people I know get sick after eating Spike's, even if they are drinking or not now that I think of it. Stomach ache city. The curly fries are pretty much the only redeeming things.
It also doesn't help that they don't take cards. What year is this? I can't even imagine how much business they lose because of that. And the one dude there who takes your order is one of the rudest people I have ever met. Horrible horrible. Trendy and gross. Don't believe the hype. -
Review from alex M.
Brighton, MA
6/11/2009
My love for this place is like my love for Jesus, purely sexual.
I used to live right down the street from here and it became not only a late night haven but an easy dinner choice. I wish there was one down the street from me now..
I was never disappointed by this place and i love their curly fries. Spike's I miss you so :( -
Review from Serena A.
Allston, MA
12/6/2006
Don't be silly.
hotdogs are amazing.
spikes serves them up right and for the right price...
the large buns are a plus! -
Review from Allison T.
Allston, MA
7/6/2005
UPDATE: If you go in for the dog eating contest, do not go for speed. I discovered that 3 dogs in 7 minutes and 4 in fifteen does not a champ make. Also, if you want "hot" ask for Buffalo and not "hot" sauce (You'll get the Spike's "freakin hot" sauce). Oh hot sauce--how you came between me and my tshirt!! (Got through 6 painful veggie dogs but only 5.5 buns due to overwhelming hotsauce ingestion...aaahhh!). PS--will never eat a veggy dog again. EVER. maybe poodle fries though...
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I'm a vegetarian and I love this place--now that says a lot!! I got hooked on the dogs at the original location in Providence, now I get out here whenever possible to get my hands on one. Super cheap and really filling. The buffalo dogs and grinder dogs can't be beat!! -
Review from cherie c.
4/15/2008
It's not very expensive. They've got a lot of hot dogs. And for those of us who don't eat hot dogs, there are chicken sandwiches and burgers. There are veggies dogs, too.
Sadly, on my first visit the grill was broken and they could only do hot dogs. So I angrily shared fries while the bf ate his dog.
Went back and got a burger. Good but not great. Again, it is reliable cheap food for late night hunger. Service was quick. The kid behind the counter handles the crowd well. Since I've only been two times, late at night, the crowd was mostly drunken college boys. If you don't mind navigating that, Spike's is a good junk food fix that is much better then the other, bigger fast food burger joints. -
Review from C. F.
Atkinson, NH
11/10/2010
oohh Spike's! The Somerville location is my favorite, there is plenty of room and parking isnt difficult since there are couple parking lots/street parking near by. Although at this Allston location parking is very difficult since it is ONLY street parking, and don't even think about parking in retail store lots because you WILL get towed... just ask my buddy Matt.
The jumbo all beef (or veggie) dogs themselves are incredibly tasty, but when you add that warm roll, fresh toppings, and curly 'poodle' fries, it's just heaven! I personally love the Ball Park Dog, which is Spike's mustard, cheddar, and onions (I get mine sans onion, though). My husband gets the pizza dog, or just a plain naked dog in the bun. No matter what we order, its always great!
Uploaded a photo from the Somerville location, but its pretty consistent at any location.
