I visited the Roast Grill in January after years of looking down on the building from my former Gannett Fleming office at One Glenwood and wondering what was inside this little Raleigh institution. The Roast Grill feels less like a restaurant and more like a preserved piece of mid-20th-century Americana hidden in plain sight along West Street. The narrow counter, wood-paneled walls, neon beer signs, Coca-Cola memorabilia, handwritten notices, old photographs, Hurricanes tributes, and decades of accumulated objects create an atmosphere that simply cannot be manufactured today. The place reminded me a little of Chicago's famous Billy Goat Tavern--especially the feeling of discovering something authentic tucked beneath an increasingly overbuilt urban streetscape. I ordered two hot dogs all the way with mustard, onions, chili, and slaw--absolutely NO ketchup, of course--along with a Coke in a glass bottle. The chili is legendary and reportedly takes up to three days to prepare. Whether that is folklore or fact, it certainly gives the hot dogs a flavor unlike almost anywhere else in Raleigh. One of my favorite details was the mounted goat wearing a red hat beneath the neon beer signs. It somehow fits perfectly within the visual layering and quirky personality of the interior. Even the traditions remain intact. At the end of the meal, every customer receives a Tootsie Roll. Places like the Roast Grill are becoming increasingly rare. It is not just a hot dog stand--it is a living piece of Raleigh history. If interested, you can view my post in "The Architecture of..." Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18Tu51FPtB/ read more

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I have always wanted to try The Roast. I had my opportunity today. Very nice waitress. Really tight quarters and lots of trinkets on the shelves near the cook area. The hot dog nor the chili were for me. My dog had an almost burnt flavor and the chili had an overly liquidity density without a lot of flavor. I loved the glass bottle cokes. Very reasonably priced but remember it is cash only. Cheers to the longevity and history of this place. It just wasn't for me. read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

This place has been in the hot dog business since 1940 when Greek immigrants open the small restaurant. There are about 12 or 13 seats in this spot, and while the building is over 100 years old, it seems fairly well maintained. Parking here can be a real issue. The grill is currently operated by George Poniros, grandson of the folks who originally opened the grill. The building is owned by George's uncle. This is a very non-eclectic operation, narrow menu and simple processes. They offer hot dogs with house made chili, tough chopped slaw (rather dry), onions, and mustard - as a long standing rule, they do not offer ketchup, ever! They closed for about a year during Covid, began a Go Fund Me campaign, resulting in some family tension. They are still open and serving hot dogs, just be aware that the opening hours are closer to an estimate than a fact! These are pretty good hot dogs, made so by the chili and soft buns. I do not consider the hot dogs here to be the best in the Triangle area. read more

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We love The Roast Grill!! We used to go all the time years ago before kids, now that they are grown up we're back for more! We love the owners, the food, drinks, the ambiance, just everything about it!! We will be back again very soon...to be sure. read more

If you know you know.. bucket list Hotdog chili, chopped onions, mustard they don't have ketchup.. the people there are real.. come back. read more

The Roast Grill was opened in Downtown Raleigh in 1940 by Mary Charles. Today it is operated by Mary's grandson George Poniros and his wife Kathy. It is a small hole in the wall place with 10 bar stools and two two top tables. The cooler is on the other side of the bar stools so it is a small and narrow space. The walls have photos of hot dog eating winners; nostalgia and there are Coke collectibles. Kathy says George has collections everywhere. The menu is simple with hot dogs; soda in bottles; desserts and potato chips were added to the menu recently. The dogs are cooked on the original grill be George and can be topped with slaw; chili; mustard or onions or any combination of those choices. They don't offer ketchup. The restaurant is cash only and the prices include taxes. Tootsie rolls are given with orders too. I'm not a hot dog fan so I just had baklava here made by Kathy. It was a real treat that I'd love more of. I also had a bottle of Coke in a glass. It was a fun experience. read more

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**HEADS UP: I believe this is a cash business!** We were visiting the museums in the area and trying to scope out inexpensive lunch options. This place came up on our radar. It's been in business since the 1940s and all indications (through conversations with owners), business still remains in the family. The restaurant is small with counter stool seating and 2 small tables; it may seat 10-12 people at most. We ordered 2 plain hot dogs, 4 chili dogs topped with/onion & mustard, a bratwurst, 3 baklava, and 4 drinks. I was quite surprised our tab totaled $75 for a family of 4! Seems a bit high (I would hope it was miscalculated), but with add ons, who knows--it's a mom & pop business and remains a fixture in this area, standing the test of time, so well worth the money! We enjoyed the people and conversations... pictures of original owners appear on wall, an old cash register still in use for transactions, a collection of nostalgic knick knacks on shelves, and the numerous business cards pinned to board only adds to the ambiance. If you have a hearty appetite, I would say a meal (hot dog, chips, drink) may cost you around $10, but watch add-ons as it could really become mire expensive (depending on qty, toppings, and dessert). Would definitely stop in again when we're in the area! Be sure to take a picture of the beautiful wall mural and art display next door! read more

This joint is a must-see! George is the real deal churning out grilled hot dogs at the old school grill with Ms. Kathy delivering the goods and drinks. Note: cash only. ATM can be found on the corner at Morgan Street Food Hall. Use the Morgan Street side entrance. Find street parking or I'd suggest downloading in advance the Passport parking app. So, you've parked. You have cash. Now, it's time to eat! Don't ask to see a menu; the menu is hot weiners Be prepared to order yours like this - with mustard because The Roast Grill does not serve ketchup, or sauerkraut. However, there is homemade chili, slaw, and lots of onions. Try one with everything by asking George for it "all the way". For dessert, Kathy offered pound cake made by a fellow parishioner. How could I pass up "church lady" pound cake? Update: the pound cake was delicious! I ordered 2 with mustard then another. 3 hot dogs + 2 Cokes + pound cake + A good deal of hot dog history = $17 - Delicious, kitschy, and affordable Oh, George did expand the menu recently to include bratwurst They serve Coke in glass bottles, which is fantastic. There is an interesting collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia from all round the world. There lots of evidence of loyalty to the NC State Wolf Pack and the NC Hurricanes. As both fly red and black colors, if I cared about sports, I'd pick them for their fashion sense alone. Now that I know the drill, it'll be easier next time. Yes, I'll be back with cash in my wallet. $20 bill will do it. read more

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Tasty and satisfying! The sausage was juicy, and the bun was soft. Could use a little more toppings. Overall, a solid hot dog! read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

The Roast Grill is an experience! One of those unforgettable, hole in the wall places with just a few things on the menu. A must visit regardless of whether you're a local or visiting from out of town. Two tips: 1) Don't ask for catsup, they don't believe in catsup on hot dogs. 2) Cash only! read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Where do I begin; I do not mean to be dramatic, but this may be the best place on Earth. You walk in and are immediately greeted by the feeling of an authentic, good 'ol days establishment. George burns those weiners to perfection every time and serves them on a nice soft bun. Simple, incredible, hot dogs that you won't find anywhere else. When you eat at the Roast Grill, you join the ranks of the legends that have eaten there over the past 80+ years including the late great Elvis Presley. read more

Best hot roasted wiener in Raleigh, N.C. since 1940. George Poniros cooks and serves you with his masterful style and hilarious banter as he has been doing it this way for over 30 years. This iconic tiny little restaurant often has a line out the door so it is good to arrive early to enjoy these delicious roasted weiners. Order your weiner any way you want with mustard, chili, onions, coleslaw, but beware that you don't ever ask for the cardinal sin of ketchup. Icy cold Coca-Cola in old school little green bottles is the best way to hydrate or you have a choice of beers. Highly recommend that you visit here often. read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - George Poniros serves you the iconic grill roasted wieners which are your signature delicious meal for over 30 years. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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BEST hotdogs on this Planet! Ask George how 'burnt' you want your dogs. A "Fatboy" is two dogs in one bun. Toppings are mustard, chili, slaw, onions. NO KETCHUP on premises. George's grandmother originated the chili back in 1940, and didn't allow ketchup because it interfered with her chili. Coke in a little, medium, or large bottle, and other drinks, as well as beer. I've been going there since 1979, and the place is the same as it ever was. Wonderful nostalgic atmosphere, you'll see suits sitting beside t-shirts and flip flops. In its own way, it could be the Raleigh version of "Cheers". Go a couple of times, and George an Kathy will probably remember the way you like your hotdogs, and quite possibly your name, too! Only thing to remember is they are CASH ONLY. read more

Call ahead to make sure they're open. But if they are, go! Yes there are only 13 bar stools and 2 2-top tables however the hot dogs are delicious! You can also get them to go. George isn't too chatty but the staff is very nice. The bins are so soft, the wiener is the perfect size and the chili is just right! CASH ONLY read more

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Great hotdogs with home made chili and slaw. I have been going there for more than 20 years!

Love this place, BUT been there 3 times the past 6 months during lunch hour and it has been closed each time. Online it says they are open...was there today, to no avail. Mike Frank 6-11-2025 read more

A trip to "The Roast Grill" is an adventure I try to repeat often, after departing Raleigh back in 2005. The experience, the atmosphere, the hot dogs, and George are not completely unchanged by time, but brings back memories of taking my kids when they would sneak-in packs of ketchup! George, is "older and grayer," using his own words, but aren't we all? George's mother, Freida, is no longer working the counter, but still alive and kicking at age 94. The selection of Coke sizes has grown... and George now has Brats, which he shared a bite and was delicious. For me, tube steak, charred on the grill, with chili, and onions, topped off with a shot of Texas Pete, is my fallback. You can read reviews that share the history of this "hole--the-wall" hot dog joint, but if you have never been, I strongly encourage you to stop in, hop on a stool, and say "Hey" to George and Kathy. Try a dogg... have coke, and experience the The Roast Grill ambiance, before someone buys the block and tears down the place to put up a high rise! read more

Went for my second visit after the lunch rush, as I was already downtown. Love the small inside. It's immediately welcoming. Both the husband, that man's the grill, and his wife welcome you on arrival. I love the way they make you feel. They both have real and true conversations and read people well. So if you're not in the mood for much talking they are fine with that too. I ordered ten hot dogs all the way. Muah! Delicious! I ate two there with a water. My family was so happy to have them when I came home. Not one complaint, which is rare. Just check it out. Such a cool atmosphere with a simple but perfected menu read more

A very strong four as it is a one of a kind place and takes you back to a simpler time . I was impressed with the hot dog and chili. The grill he uses is very interesting and they take a lot of pride in their business and great customer service which never goes out of style. Very small place and often crowded but worth the wait which isn't long and it's perfect if you just want a great hotdog and drink . The fact that they serve beer is a plus and adds to the simplicity of having a hotdog and a beer . It's a nice bit of history also. read more

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I moved away from Raleigh 8 years ago and still think about these hotdogs. Don't eat here if you want to appreciate anyone elses hotdogs in the future. They're so good that all others pale in comparison. read more

Great service, delicious hotdogs. Well worth the wait to get in the door, A Raleigh institution!

The other day i went to downtown and saw this place, i have passed by that place before but never had tried it, so this time I went in and decided to give it a try. They only sale hot dogs all the way or plain (no ketchup) it is a small place but really nice. Hot dogs are tasty not bad at all. read more

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Roast Grill is legendary in my family. We treat it with great respect. I got to go there in the 80s when they still served coke in paper cones, and when i grew up and had a job downtown I'd visit once a week. Locals will tell you how to behave at this place-it's a quick in and out lunch spot. There's only about 10 seats in the whole place, so have your dogs, say thank you, and make space for someone else. One of the things that makes Roast Grill's hotdogs distinctive is you can ask for your preferred char level--if George isn't saving them for someone that is. read more

The dogs were Great! And the service was outstanding! My dad use to take me and my brother there after the Christmas Parade! So that's how long I've been a friend visiting. read more

Best hot dogs in the Carolinas! George makes some damn good fat boys. :) I like it loaded which means mustard, chili, onions and slaw. They got hurt real bad during the pandemic cause their shop is so tight and most people eat at the counter so I was happy to come back to support their business cause it's places like this that make Raleigh special! read more

When it comes to hot dog condiments, the operators of The Roast Grill attended the same school as Clint "Dirty Harry" Eastwood, who famously proclaimed in 1983's Sudden Impact, "Nobody, I mean NOBODY, puts ketchup on a hot dog." This is all to say that they don't have ketchup at TRG. Or relish. Or sauerkraut. Or mayo. So if any of these condiments are sacrosanct to your hot dog eating experience, then either don't come here or bring your own. This place is all about one thing: the hot dog. Because that's pretty much all they have. Pursuant to the hot dogs, they are excellent. I had two all the way and a bottled Sprite. From top to bottom, everything tasted great. The wiener is charred before your eyes on a small flat-top grill and had a good flavor as did the slaw. The chili is very good, but is a bit runny--I had a bit of a mess on my hands, but it was totally manageable. If the bun had been toasted, this dog would approach five stars. One concern I had was that the bottle of Sprite had an expiration date of August 26, 2019. This is the second day in a row from two different places that I've been given a product that is out of date. What the heck?! Also, their sanitation grade is a 93.5, which is perilously close to the low 90's. Additionally the walls, which are heavily adorned with memorabilia of all kinds have a grimy appearance. Nevertheless, I think the place is clean and safe, and the two people running TRG were so sweet and kind that I'm not factoring these minor things into my rating. Our State Magazine put the Roast Grill on their top ten best hot dog list (they are very good, but not in MY top ten) and said at that time, 2016, that the dogs were $1.45. I don't know if that was a typo or mistake or if they're getting their hot dogs from Venezuela, where inflation rates are astounding, but the hot dogs are $3 a piece now. This is a bit high for what you get. All told, TRG is definitely worth a stop if you are in Raleigh. read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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This is a great place to eat.  Shame on those of you that have left bad reviews for the size of the place, its busyness & the limited menu.  IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE THIS - DUH! :)  It's an older Raleigh establishment...an institution. They've been in business for over 80 years...you think they care about your bad reviews??!! BUWAAHAHAHAHAHA! George & his mom run the place.  They run it the way they like it.  The chili IS famous for its flavor & homemade, as is the slaw.  Their rules are simple...no ketchup & no credit cards.  If you don't like it, go elsewhere!  Yes, they use skinny, pink dogs & they blacken them to your likin' on the grill.  George loves his customers & as another person said, you go there enough & he knows your order as soon as you walk in the door.  The flavor of the dogs & chili is outstanding!  It is what it is... a great dog place!  The small size of the place & it's nostalgic atmosphere is one thing I like about it.  I love to see it busy & don't mind waiting in line b/c that way, I know local business is thriving!  Kudos to The Roast Grill for being such a great Raleigh Institution! Thank you!! read more

Such an iconic place. I loved sitting at the counter chatting with the owners. Raleigh should really take care and protect places like the Roast Grill. read more

I've heard so much about this place so I checked it out with my sisters. Parking was terrible as it was a Saturday but we managed to park somewhere close. Outside looked very old and couldn't tell if it was open or not. When we walked in, we were surprised at how tiny it is inside and again at how packed it was. I felt a little too claustrophobic being in there. No one greeted us, no one told us how to order, and I was just stood there until people at the bar finished. We all each got 1 hot dog, all the way, and a drink/beer. Personally, their hot dogs were just ok. It was a little bland for me. I think I had high expectations and unfortunately the service and food did not meet it. Price was reasonable. However, my 2 sisters who went with me, enjoyed the food very much and they plan on coming back. read more

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#AmericasBestHotDog George Ponios' family has been doing dogs here since 1940. You don't accomplish that with mediocre food. Some Basics Bring Cash - No Ketchup - the Chili is so good you do not need it! There are lots of options, chopped onions, mustard Chili, and 'slaw' any, all, some, or none. The 80+-year-old Grill is the secret! The sausages are made special for George, per his recipe and he's got the softest buns in the business. Go Hungry, Leave Happy! Baklava, Pound cake, and now Chips. Also, Cokes in small glass bottles...OH YEAH! You haven't lived in Raleigh until you've had a dozen of these beauteous dogs! read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - Two Doubles! George's way. Mustard, Chili, Onions - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

My coworker told me about Roast Grill couple weeks ago complimenting their amazing hot dogs. So I brought my sisters to try out! Roast Grill is somewhat hidden, or maybe I think it's hidden because I never knew it existed. Parking nearby is mostly street parking. I went in for Saturday lunch and had no problem finding one. When I walked into the restaurant, I was surprised at two things: How small the space inside is and how packed it was with people. At first we were confused on how to order because there is one long bar & chairs right next to the grill and two small tables with two chairs each on the other side of the grill. But the male owner shouted that as the finished customers leave, new customers should take the bar space. So we did. You order your choice (i.e. # of hot dogs, # of drinks/beer) to either male or female owner (I didnt catch there names). And you get hot dogs and drinks as they become ready. I ordered one hot dog, but I plan to get two) dogs next time. The hot dogs are simple but delicious! We got everything on our hot dogs as we are not thay picky with food. There wasn't much inside the bun, but this hot dog was delicious! One of sisters and I loved our hot dog and swore that we will come back for more. But the other sister thought it was OK. My overall experience was pleasant! I love how small and intimate the lunch experience was. I'm going to be keep visiting them for some yummy hot dogs from now on!! read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - One hot dog with everything, $2.50 - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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As a guy who doesn't think much of chain restaurants and their uniformity, I really appreciate places like the Roast Grill. Around since 1940, they only do one thing but do it pretty darn well. Have whatever you want for lunch as long as it's a hot dog! The place is tiny and it looks as if you're stepping into somebody's summer cottage. You've got long-timers sittin' at the counter with two tiny tables on the side. Maximum seating for maybe 12 people and you're gonna get cozy with your neighbors. And I'm guessing the owners know virtually everyone who comes in but no worries if you're a Roast Grill newbie! As for the food, yeah it's about as simple as you can get: a hot dog on a fluffy bun with your choice of mustard, chili, onions and slaw. Oh and you can have a coke or beer with it, the Roast Grill is perfect for indecisive diners! The dog itself is good but I'd have to say the chili-mustard combo is what really makes it. And I hate to mention it but I'm a ketchup sorta-guy and that tomatoey sauce is verboten at the Roast Grill! What can I say but I am so glad that places like the Roast Grill or Nathans on Coney Island exist. They're ties back to a simpler time and place and that is NEVER a bad thing! Here's to another 70 years of hot dogs at the Roast Grill! (clink) read more

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Stopped in about an hour before closing on a weekend. Right when I walked in, I loved how quiet and peaceful it was, and how small it was. I'm a sucker for cute little hole-in-the walls and I love that you feel like you are stepping back in time. We ordered 3 hot dogs all the way, and I thought they were tasty, although not the most filling. Let's just say I think I could probably eat 3 on my own for a meal, but we just stopped in for a snack. :) Owners were very sweet and kind, perfunctory service, not much chit-chat unless of course you want to. I'm usually not a mustard fan but I loved the chili with the mustard and the crunch of the onions. I thought we ordered the coleslaw as well, but it is not mayo coleslaw, but more like raw pieces of cabbage that we had (not bad or good, just FYI). Regardless, I enjoyed it and I love supporting family-owned businesses. It can be a bit pricey if you want to get full here, but I think it's a great pop in for a snack! read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - So cute!! - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

New Jerseys Famous Texas wieners In Raleigh, Wow! Don't believe me check it out @. https://www.yelp.com/collection/qFwnzbjeU0ZeU1sDsk0-fg/The-North-NJ-Hot-Dog-Tour read more

It was A-OK. I saw this on a television show and thought I would drop in to see what the fuss was about. It's a really tight space that looks like it has not been cleaned for hundreds of years BUT I respect the history. It was the experience that mattered. It was steady and always packed. I felt a little bit claustrophobic because there were so much people in such a tight space BUT it was about the experience.I believe it's a cash only mom and pop shop. The hotdogs were unique but nothing that says "you must go back". There was a nice char to the texture of the hot dogs. The price was average for a hotdog. I would go back again if I'm in the area but nothing too special. read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - Hot DOGS - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Roast Grill has excellent hot dogs!! By far, the best in North Carolina. Once you try them, you will be amazed!

One of best Hot Dogs in town. The History of the place is my favorite part. It's tiny inside.

The Roast Grill Hot Wieners has 32 things on its menu: soda, beer, 1 hot dog, 2 hot dogs, 3 hot dogs, 4 hot dogs, 5 hot dogs... all the way up to 30 hot dogs. Actually, sometimes there are more items when dessert is also available. Dogs are $2.50 each and can come with Sauer's brand yellow mustard, sweet white Texas onions, homemade chilli, and for a quarter more - slaw. You should without a doubt get them "burned and all-the-way". +1 star for not having ketchup available. Only children and barbarians put ketchup on hotdogs. The sour of the mustard, the sulfur of the cabbage and onion, the sweetness of the onion, and the chilli really compliment the charred hot dog and perfectly steamed bun. No French fries. No chips. Nothing else. It's like those specialty boutiques in Europe that do one thing and do it really well, but this one just happens to specialize in America's national dish. George and Mary Charles opened the icon in its current location in 1940. Current owner/operator is their grandson George Poniros. George is approaching 60 years old and has been slinging dogs for the past quarter century along with mother Freeda, so don't expect him to be Mr. Sunshine on your first visit. But he is an earnest man slinging honest dogs, politely and seriously. Poniros cooks dogs the old fashioned way - on a flat two burner flat iron grill graduating uncooked dogs from right to left with nicely charred ones on the far left. I asked Ms. Freeda what dogs she uses. She said "Swift out of Michigan, or they used to be called that before they were bought out by that Midwestern company. They are 90% beef." As recently as 2011, Poniros was quoted in an interview saying that they used Swift Premium. I did some research. Swift only has a single factory in Michigan and it doesn't make hot dogs, which is understandable because Michigan has the country's toughest sausage laws. This means that these are no longer Swift Premium, which is a good thing because these are not mass market hot dogs. These are boutique dogs. These wieners are "Coney Island" style, which means they have a heritage of being all beef in order to be Kosher. However, these have 10% other meat, which tastes like pork, to give it better flavor. Hence, these dogs will taste closer to a Hebrew National hot dog than the more common predominantly pork-based wiener. Secondly, these dogs char nicely, so they clearly have a natural casing. However, they don't have a heavy snap, which is caused when using thicker hog casings used in sausages. My guess is that these are thinner lamb casings. A lot of folks like the satisfying snap of hog casings, but hog casings can get chewy/stringy and would be too much burned mass when charring. These sausages are also lighter colored rather than redder, which is caused by less paprika in the recipe - which means they are less spicy compared to a Carolina Red. My wild guess is that these folks are using Koegel's Vienna wieners. No, there are no retail distributors of Koegel's in North Carolina, so you are SOL if you want to DIY. But the flavor doesn't really lean on the dog - it's a balance of the whole all-the-way package. Poniros' chilli tastes great. It also the right consistency, which is purposely more runny compared to the stand-alone chilli you eat out of a bowl. And as for the worn-in anachronistic site, I love it. And apparently, many other people love it too, because it is almost always busy to get one of the 12 stools. It is hard to describe the feeling I got from sitting in there. It didn't feel trashy and old. It felt nostalgic. It felt historic. It felt like the type of place a father might bring his son, share four alltheways and 2 cold Cokes in glass bottles and have it leave an comfortable imprint of your family's history, just like countless families before yours. read more

The Roast Grill Hot Weiners - Adam ate 17 dogs. Current record: 26 all-the-way dogs. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Best in Raleigh! Cool people. Great atmosphere. Wonderful hot dogs. Husband wife team that has a old school vibe and good food to offer a perfect visit ! read more

Great dogs and worth the stop. Chili onions mustard slaw - perfect. Bring cash - enjoy.