Just what Lincoln Park needs, another hot dog joint. And if location is important, the Dog Joint, should do just fine. Located steps from the the Park West theater and across the street from the meet market black hole that is formed by Stanley's, Sedgwick's and Gamekeepers, the place does bang-up business with kids looking to fill the void of last call regret and binge drinking with copious amounts of encased meats, fries, salt and stuff that's otherwise bad for you. But what they make tastes good.

The Dog Joint keeps its menu simple. The "Joint Dog," at $2.29, comes to you Chicago style with the works. They use Red Hot Chicago brand wieners; I'm a Vienna Beef man but I'm not complaining at 2 a.m. If you don't like a salad on your bun, sauerkraut and grilled onions are available upon request.

The Italian beef is made using an original seasoning recipe. Anything should be eaten with an order of "3-Way Fries," topped with melted cheddar, sour cream and bacon bits.

The smallish dining area is no-frills, but a row of stools up front gives you ample space for watching the bars spill out at 3 a.m.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Chuck Sudo