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    The Hot Grill

    4.0 (537 reviews)
    InexpensiveHot Dogs, American
    Open 9:00 am - 2:00 AM (Next day)

    Order The Hot Grill Takeout or Delivery

    The Hot Grill Photos

    THE HOT GRILL ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Outdoor seating
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - The Hot Grill

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    Reviews With Photos

    Combo Special
    Jeff M.

    Hot Grill 669 Lexington Ave. Clifton, NJ 07011 Homemade Minestrone Combo Special Hot Dog All The Way Appearance: 8.9/10 Taste: 9.1/10 Located at the intersection of Lexington Avenue and Thimble Avenue is a locally owned hot dog restaurant. Here are a few of the menu items I explored. Homemade Minestrone: Freshly made in house, this starter will definitely kick start the meal. Enjoy a vegetable medley ranging from beans to celery to potato along with small bits of pasta in a savory broth. For that added crunch, don't be shy with the oyster crackers. It will definitely complement the flavor. Combo Special: A minute disadvantage is that this combo doesn't include a side, but it has a variety of toppings including hickory ham and melted cheese on a hard roll. The burger patty is made from prime beef. Hot Dog All The Way: This deep fried dog is piled with chili, chopped onions, and a touch of mustard. As a bonus, all of those toppings were added for no additional charge. If you aren't in the mood for lunch, arrive in the early morning hours to explore the breakfast options. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are plenty of seating options which also includes a few outdoor tables.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Overall, the food was decent and the service was impeccable. #hotgrill #hotgrillclifton #cliftonnj #hotdogalltheway #allthewayhotdog #ComboSpecials #minestronesoup #LexingtonAvenue

    Inside seating is adorable and retro
    Kerianne O.

    I was driving through the area and had to look this place up because it was buzzing with people mid day on a Wednesday. Not disappointed! Service was very friendly (which I didn't expect for a counter service). The woman said everyone loves to order a hot dog "all the way" which has onions mustard and chili. I've had chili dogs from famous places in DC and so forth but I do have to say, it was l better here. A simple classic done right. Note that--The chili is mild, not spicy. SIMPLE CLASSIC! This business started in 1961 and I can see why the locals aren't upset about recent price adjustments. (They are updating their menus atm). But they have BOGO happy hours on some weekdays also. I found the prices to be very very reasonable regardless. They do breakfast until like 11:30am. I was able to order regular menu items during breakfast no issues.

    Hotdogs "all the way" and fries with gravy
    Matt D.

    The Hot Grill is my go to hotdog place when you want an NJ authentic Texas weiner aka hotdog "all the way". There's been many great hotdog places throughout the years Libbies, Falls view, the original Johny and Hanges in Paterson. The Hot grill is king. Great hotdogs all the way, fried with gravy, onion rings you name it.

    Two dogs all the way...
    Johnnie W.

    No frills, no bs, just a killer hot dog with famous chili. To me, these are the best chili dogs on Earth. So good, deep fried, hot, and just plain delicious.

    Fries with cheese and gravy
    Brian G.

    [[HIGHLIGHT]]My favorite place to bring the family on Friday evenings.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Been coming here for a while now. I always get 3 All the Way and fries with Cheese and gravy. The chili is very flavorful but not spicy at all. The gravy is incredible. Nothing beats the Hot Grill's fries with gravy and cheese.

    Yum! French Fries
    Emily P.

    I've been going here since before I could remember as a Clifton local and this place is my literal childhood. No one does it like they do with the fresh Frenchie made of pure potato's. Their signatures have stayed authentic and every bite of those fries bring me back to my roots their service has always been top notch with friendly cashiers and quick service. If you want to dine anywhere in Clifton, come to hot grill!

    Cheese and gravy fries
    Heather L.

    It's been 7 years since I last reviewed my favorite hot dog joint! I always go with a Frenchie one (fries) with gravy and cheese, a kraut & mustard and a chili and cheese dog! Another favorite is an all the way with mustard, chili and chopped onions. Their hot dogs are deep fried and a blend of beef and pork. The chili and gravy are unlike any I've had before, yet I can't quite describe them other than delicious! Lines move fast as u place order at counter and take to your choice of seats. Another fave is their roast beef on soft roll with gravy. We always grab the picnic special which includes package of 12 uncooked hot dogs, 12 buns and a pint of chili during summer months although available year round. You can always add on a pint/quart of chopped onions for additional charge although it used to come as part of the special. Overall, I've been coming here for over 40 years and still my fave place for those cravings! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Originally started in the '60's with 20 bar stools, upgraded to accommodate 80 patrons and now 145![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Open to midnight S-Thurs, and 2am Fri & Sat! Back in the day this was an all cash joint, but today you can now use a credit card or contactless payments using ur phone.

    Virginia T.

    We were in the area and had been told that the Hot Grill was a must. We ordered a dog with cheese and onions, fries, onion rings and a few burgers. The burgers weren't like your diner burgers but they were super thing, perfectly cooked and very very tasty! The fries were perfect and the onion rings were even better!! Both perfectly cooked and crispy. The dog was great and well we do recommend trying this place if you're in the area. I wouldn't go out of my way to boost but if in the area it's. A must try.

    Plain hot dog
    Kevin F.

    This place doesn't look like much, but it's clear why it's been a local landmark for decades once you dine here. I've never been much of fan of the type of hot dog that's smothered in chili and all kinds of other stuff. I've always just enjoyed them simple with some ketchup. But maybe I just haven't been to the right place until now. This is the right place. The hot dogs here are fried to perfection, with just the right saltiness and flavor. And the chili and onions that they put on these add just the right amount of kick, not overwhelming at all. To top it all off, the prices here are extremely reasonable, particularly in 2024. I'll be back here for sure, especially to try more of the menu items.

    Just regular service no smiles
    Charlie S.

    Had a lunch yesterday after I read many highly rewarded comments from fellow yelpers. I ordered a hotdog with cheese, a hamburger and fries. Also a small soda total of $17 and change including tax and tip. The sausage was salty and burger was plain and nothing special but good meaty taste. Fries were good and hot. But I feel the high scores do not match for these foods, services and interiors. High scores may come from nostalgia which I understand I also love some restaurants with nostalgic. Just do not expect such high scored foods from this place.

    Cherry Slushie
    Emily M.

    When I was in the area I came across this hidden hot dog gem, it's been around since 1961. I ended up getting their "World Famous Tastiest Texas Weiner" which was their fried hot dog with homemade chilli, onions, and mustard !! It was delicious and hit the spot! I also tried their homemade minestrone soup which was a yummy and unexpected treat that went great with the hot dog. The cherry slushie was literally the cherry on top of this quick pit stop! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Nice seating area, including booths and friendly service![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Three all the way

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    Review Insights

    15 days ago

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    9 months ago

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    19 hours ago

    The.Hot Grill is.a legacy. The dogs are out of this world with their world famous sauce. Highly recommend.

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    6 months ago

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    6 months ago

    Did no get what I ordered and grub hub delivery and never notified- food was cold and lousy - it all went in the trash - so sad

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    4 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Always a pleasure to visit The Hot Grill when in NJ! Best sauce for your burger or hotdog.

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    8 months ago

    Been coming here for more than 50 years. Never disappointed! "2 all the way 2, 1 frenchy 1 with gravy"

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    1 year ago

    It was ok. No johnny and hanges but was ok. Didn't send any condiments ketchup salt pepper for , nothing so it was pretty dry.

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    6 years ago

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    Page 1 of 14

    Ask the Community - The Hot Grill

    Do they still have the half off prices on weekday afternoons?

    I was at Hot Grill on Monday May 14th and was told they no longer had that special. I'm sure it will be back though. It comes and goes

    View All 4 Questions

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    Blue 42

    Blue 42

    4.3
    (247 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    $$

    5 stars based on what it is: a no frills, super casual, dive bar with food…read more Plenty of parking across the street. Very friendly staff, seemed clean enough. Very popular. Plenty of TVS to watch the games. Good beer selection. Very good sangria. Well know for it's ( approx) 200 styles ( sauces\rubs) of chicken wings. Excellent wings! Cooked perfect; Large sized. We tried these and all were great: --OMFG Parmesan Peppercorn & Garlic Buffalo --Garlic Parmesan --Bangkok Peach Apricot Highly recommended; Great Happy Hour specials. Reservations taken

    A solid little sports bar known for its massive -- almost oppressive -- wing menu. There is a real…read morecase here of not being able to see the forest for the trees when faced with nearly 200 varieties, many of which, upon closer inspection, amount to the same handful of flavors rearranged into slightly different combinations. It feels rooted in the same philosophy that says a man buys three suits and somehow discovers endless outfits within them. But is there anything wrong with just three good suits? Do all possible combinations truly have value? At what point does variety become a little ridiculous? That said, the bones -- so to speak -- are very good. The wings are fried well, generously sauced, and satisfying in whatever flavor palette you ultimately settle on. Just do not expect the decision-making process to come easily.

    Photos
    Blue 42
    8 wings with Avocado Ranch and Lemon Pepper
    8 wings with Avocado Ranch and Lemon Pepper
    French Fries (~$6)

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    French Fries (~$6)
    ReBAR & kitchen

    ReBAR & kitchen

    4.3
    (704 reviews)
    3.2 mi
    $$

    Great spot ! Don't sleep on it Service by Siobhan 5 stars…read more Excellent food and solid spirit/beer selection

    I was excited to check out this local sports bar in Lodi after seeing all of the positive reviews…read more Honestly, it was a little underwhelming for me. Maybe I just ordered the "wrong things". Either way, my experience didn't live up to the hype. I visited on a late Saturday night. There's a parking lot behind the restaurant. The entrance can be tricky to find... It's located in the back on the left-hand side. The exterior and interior are both pretty dark, dull, and dingy. It's not the most inviting atmosphere at first. It has a divey, industrial, and rustic vibe to it, but hey... sometimes the best food comes from places that don't look like much. So I try not to judge. It wasn't too busy, and the service was attentive. The menu has your classic American comfort food - wings, pizza, burgers, sandwiches, etc. They switch it up with daily specials like skirt steak, chicken parm, and pasta. They have a full bar with cocktails, drafts, bottled beers, can ciders, and wines. You can even do a four-beer flight and make it a tasting experience! I ordered: *Dark & Stormy Cocktail [Goslings Dark Rum, Ginger Beer, Lime Juice] ($14) - Not the best one I've had, but it was solid. If you like ginger and rum, this is a must try. The dark rum has hints of caramel which works really well with the spicy ginger beer. The lime juice adds a citrus kick, so it's a really refreshing drink. *Margarita ($18) - As a tequila girly, I've had my fair share of margaritas. This one didn't do it for me. It was a little too sour/tart, which overpowered everything else. *Cubano Sandwich [includes roast pork, black forest ham, swiss cheese, pickles, mayo, and mustard with side of fries] ($16) - I wasn't expecting an authentic Cubano from an American sports bar, so my expectations weren't super high. This was good, but not great. The pork was flavorful, but could've been more tender. I wish there were more pickles and mayo for that extra tangy crunch. The bread was pressed a little too hard, so it was a bit tough to bite through. *Double Blackened Chicken Breast Sandwich [includes pepper jack cheese, chipotle mayo, red peppers, and red onion on brioche with side of fries] ($18) - This was huge and filling! They did not skimp out on the protein. The brioche bun was soft and buttery. The chicken was well seasoned - smoky and savory with crispy charred edges. BUT... to my disappointment, the inside was dry and not juicy at all. Another small issue was the ratio - There was so much chicken compared to the rest of the toppings, so it wasn't the most cohesive sandwich. It really needed more cheese and chipotle mayo to tie all the flavors together. The fries were the best part - thick, crispy, and golden! It's decent bar food, just not the best I've had. Nothing was bad, but nothing was great or memorable. For the price, I didn't feel it was worth it. I do appreciate that their food is served piping hot and fresh. To be fair, this is probably the perfect spot for beer lovers. I happen to not be one, lol. The burger options sound popular and promising too. I'd consider giving them another shot for Happy Hour or to try a burger, but it's not at the top of my list. Just because it's not the sports bar for me, doesn't mean it won't be the one for you.

    Photos
    Window seating
    Window seating
    ReBAR & kitchen
    Sloop "Juicer" Bomb IPA 8%.  Ahhh!

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    Sloop "Juicer" Bomb IPA 8%. Ahhh!
    Charlie Blood's

    Charlie Blood's

    4.4
    (120 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$

    Amy, related to the founder "Charlie Blood", and her best friend, Miranda, seeking her master's…read moredegree and probably Doctorate in the in support of Professional Team sports medicine focusing on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement, delivered the history, and heart felt welcome. The food was outstanding, seasoned and cooked perfectly, hot, fresh, and pleased my pallet after a long day of travel. The calamari appetizer I ordered was the largest portion I have ever had, hot, fresh, amazing!!! That was the warmup for the Ribeye and the Onion Rings!!! The Ambience was Western Themed and enhanced the steak dinner experience too. I felt like I was welcomed by the locals and every interaction with the guests and staff made me feel at home and valued. I will be dining here again soon when I land the jet at Teterboro TEB (KTEB).

    My friend told me about this spot and mentioned it was similar to Authors in Hoboken, I checked out…read morethe reviews and pics and decided I wanted to try this spot out one day. Came here on a Friday night, walked inside the bar not knowing the restaurant entrance is on the parking lot, people were nice to point us through the kitchen to the restaurant. The place is very interesting, a lot of different artwork and decor. They serve complimentary bread with olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. Started off with the Cowboy Calamari ($19.95) and it was delicious. The calamari was nice and crispy, it was drizzled with some sort of sweet sauce. This was actually the highlight of the night, I highly recommend getting this. For my main, I ordered the 12 oz ribeye ($24.95) with onion rings ($4). The ribeye was bigger than 12 oz, it was huge. I got it medium but it came out medium rare, which if fine with me. The ribeye was good and very filling, just know you get what you pay for. Overall it was a good experience with interesting atmosphere. * Reatuarant entrance on the side of parking lot * Parking on premise and Street parking * Get the Cowboy Calamari

    Photos
    Restaurent
    Restaurent
    Charlie Blood's
    Be kind to your  bartender

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    Be kind to your bartender
    Seasons 52

    Seasons 52

    4.3
    (219 reviews)
    3.7 mi
    $$

    Good food! Good drinks!…read moreAwesome service! My grandson enjoyed his Birthday celebration very much. Definitely will be back.

    Seasons 52 is one of my favorite restaurants. It's spacious, very clean, has an open kitchen, a…read morelarge bar, and delicious food. Our Server, Samantha, was exceptional. She was very attentive and made our meal pleasant and comfortable. I started with a Blood Orange Margarita (Calirosa 'Rosa Blanca' Tequila, orange liqueur, fresh sour, blood orange). This drink was VERY GOOD. The hint of blood orange was the perfect amount of sweetness and I was content with my selection. The appetizer was the Slow-Roasted Meatballs (porcini-dusted veal, pork, grass-fed beef, tomato-basil sauce, brick-oven bread). Each meatball was tender, flavorful, well seasoned, and the sauce was sufficient to accompany every forkful of the delicious starter. The entrees were: Caramelized Sea Scallops (broccolini, mascarpone risotto). Next was the Seasonal Brick-Oven Gnocchi (roasted mushrooms, truffle oil, roasted tomatoes, Marsala and provolone sauce, green onions). The final entree was the Mediterranean Wood-Grilled Chicken Salad (arugula, toybox tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onions, chickpeas, quinoa, feta, lemon dijon vinaigrette). For dessert, Seasons 52 graciously offered a free dessert for my birthday. Another nice touch that places Seasons 52 on a pedestal. I chose the Key Lime Pie Mini (graham cracker crust, whipped cream). The mini dessert was deliciously sweet, the graham crust provided an appreciated different texture, and I highly recommend these mini selections.

    Photos
    Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops served with broccolini and mascarpone risotto.
    Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops served with broccolini and mascarpone risotto.
    Cedar Plank-roasted Salmon with seasonal vegetables, marble potatoes and dill-mustard sauce
    Cedar Plank-roasted Salmon with seasonal vegetables, marble potatoes and dill-mustard sauce
    Seasons 52 has a wide selection of varietals on our wine menu

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    Seasons 52 has a wide selection of varietals on our wine menu

    The Hot Grill - hotdog - Updated July 2026

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