The express train to greasy deliciousness: Carney’s restaurant
When you catch a glimpse at Carney’s on Sunset Boulevard, you may just write it off as a cheesy stop-off that caters to minors or out-of-towners. But, the truth is that this salvaged vintage railcar is home to some of the most top-rated hot dogs in town. It’s included in every respectable list of top hot dog joints in the city and was included in Pulitzer Prize-winning restaurant critic Jonathan Gold’s 99 essential Los Angeles restaurants.
This bright yellow Union Pacific train carriage was hauled across the city by husband-and-wife duo John and Pat Wolfe and stationed at a prime spot overlooking the Sunset Strip in the 70s. There’s also a second wagon is located on Ventura Boulevard in Studio City.
Here, you’ll find locals and tourists alike lining up to dig into the loaded dogs, “train wreck fries” smothered in cheese and Angus beef hamburgers (which come with the option to add a dog right on top for an extra $2.95). It’s a classic experience in every sense of the word, with its old-school setting and cooking style its that little taste of nostalgia with great service and good beer at a great price.
For those days when you just need a serving of comfort food with a short wait, a chili dog topped with freshly ground meat, tomato, onions, mustard (yellow or brown) is your answer. Although, there’s a myriad of ways to mix it up with sauerkraut, pickles, red cabbage, cheddar cheese and more. Whatever you do, save some space for another crowd-pleaser: the frozen bananas dipped in chocolate. Of course, vegans and vegetarians have tasty options too.
Los Angeles’ bygone era of over-thetop themed restraunts is slowly being erased by sleek, high-rise condos. So it’s rare to find an experience like Carney’s in Hollywood which has managed to maintain food standards for almost half a century. And while you’ll only be able to take a peak in the carriage to order for takeout but the patio spaces offer a perfect way to marvel at the car and people watch while basking in that California sunshine.
Location: Carney’s, 8351 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood and 12601 Ventura Blvd., Studio City
Featured Image: @rich_rocks