NOW CLOSED...Formerly: A nice hit in East Village, Rockstar Dogs brings its rock and roll-themed menu into the heart of Lincoln Park, where drunken voyagers can satisfy their cravings for whatever type of hot dog their intoxicated heart desires. A certifiably awesome jukebox awaits your selection and Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters hang on the wall next to pictures of sweaty, iconic rockers belting out their souls while wailing on the axe. "No Stairway to Heaven" says the writing on the wall in an apparent nod to "Wayne's World," and it's obvious Wayne and Garth would feel right at home here. Give the place some credit – they chose a well-beloved theme and stuck with it.
Entrees here come with an iconic title – the char-broiled cheese is called the "Vedder," the "Ramone" features sauerkraut and mustard, while the Latin-style, jalapenos-and-bacon-wrapped selection goes by "Los Lobos." References aside, the franks are much more than cutesy – they're greasy, yummy, great with fries, and pretty much on par with the Chicago standard. Prices on the dogs mostly range in $6 to $8 area (although the "Skinny Puppy" offers a lighter, mustard-only option for $3), a little pricey compared to the usual Chicago stand, but pretty reasonable considering all dogs come with fries, a can of soda, and a four-minute Slash solo.
One nice rule that will delight the purists: "No ketchup unless you're under 13." And while partygoers won't find any alcohol here, Rockstar energy drinks are offered at only $2 with a dog, giving you that extra bit of caffeine, guarana and ginseng to blaze out of the joint and offer piggy-back rides for all your friends to the next bar.
Average cost: <$10
Centerstage Reviewer: Andy Seifert