There is nothing more American than a good hamburger and hot dog, served with in-house made potato…read morechips and a Coke or a beer by friendly and welcoming, young ladies, who make you feel at home from the moment you walk in the door. And that is precisely what I discovered when I visited Top Dawgs Pub & Deli for the very first time this late afternoon for a late lunch and early dinner.
This casual family-owned and operated American restaurant for over 12 years is located in the Roanoke/Botetourt County area and is known for its pub fare like hot dogs, burgers, and wings, with a large selection of craft beers and Coke products.
When I arrived, I immediately noticed this family-oriented restaurant's community-focus. There were signs up of Family Meal Box, Taco Tuesday Family Pack, Karaoke Every Other Saturday, and Sunday Funday. There were couples, young and older dining there, as well as families. It's dog-themed decor was very unique, with dogs pictures all around the walls. It had seating areas with high tables and chairs, low tables and chairs, and chairs at the bar counter. The large screen high definition TVs were set at an appropriate distance so one could conveniently watch a game while dining there and having some beers.
As soon as I entered, a young lady in the back asked me to seat at the table of my choice, and then she came down to bring me a menu and take my drink order. Even though they had an extensive selection of beers, since I was driving, I opted for an iced-cold Coke. To dine I started out with a Bam Bam Shrimp appetizer. The shrimps weren't Jumbo as described in the menu, but tasted delicious with the bam bam sauce. And to dine I ordered a Cowboy Burger that came with in-house made potato chips that were out-of-this-world and a Cheezy Dawg. The burger came in a fresh, soft bun and the patty was juicy and cooked to perfection, although the bacon inside was not crispy and I couldn't see the onion ring inside, it tasted good with the cheddar cheese and BBQ sauce. The home-cut potato chips were just amazing. Best I've ever had. And the hot dog was an all beef quarter pound jumbo hot dog, split in the center and had chili, cheese, onions, and mustard, also in a fresh hot dog bun, and I added some ketchup as well. My server Tammie made sure to refill my drink without me having to mention it to her.
For dessert I had their Fried Oreo Cookies and they tasted amazingly delicious. The best I've ever had. They were about 5 or 6 fresh Oreo cookies dipped in a light batter and fried mildly, then sprinkled with sweet powder sugar. They were so good and I was so full that I took 3 of them home with me to have as a snack later on. To pay, my server brought me a convenient little machine, where I paid with one of my credit cards, including my tip,
Overall it was an extraordinary, relaxing dining experience and I highly recommend this restaurant when you want to have a truly enjoyable American meal.