Weenie Beenie
Order Weenie Beenie Takeout or Delivery
Weenie Beenie Photos
Business Info
WEENIE BEENIE ATMOSPHERE
You might also consider
Recommended Reviews - Weenie Beenie
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
This local institution has been around since 1950 and is the original and only location left. I got the famous Half-Smoke with everything (chili, onions, mustard and relish). The half smoke itself had a great snap to it and was a little spicy with a good smoke flavor. Great stop along the bike trail for a piece of history.
Who was Weenie Beenie and what is it like? We had no idea but we knew they were one of the first, if not the first, to serve the legendary half-smoke sausages only available in DC. The visit was unique, the story is unique and the food is unique! Let's do this! Established in 1950 or 1954 (reports vary but the sign on the building says 1954), Weenie Beenie was a modest hot dog stand serving hot dogs and beans. It was started by two brothers, Carl and Bill Staton. Bill happened to be an incredible and ultimately famous traveling pool player who went by the name... you guessed it... Weenie Beenie! He won 27k in Arkansas (which is a LOT of money in the 1950's) and used the money to finance the hot dog stand's growth! He appeared on television, played hustlers across the country, and backed other hustlers while living the pool and entrepreneur life. During the 50's, a period of entrenched segregation in Virginia, Weenie Beenie distinguished itself by hiring black employees on the same terms as whites when most white‑owned businesses would not hire blacks at all. This made Weenie Beenie a rare example of early workplace integration in Arlington and a meaningful employer within the historically Black Green Valley community. Its reputation for fairness became a very important part of its legacy, remembered along with the food and its very colorful founder. We popped over and found a 70+ year old walk-up stand with a colorful, diverse and engaging set of customers and friendly service. In faded letters on the front wall to the left are the 10 commandments! No breaking any divine rules at Weenie Beenie's! We all chatted and I learned the one guy comes every day! The old man in the suit was very polite and reserved. The younger Latin and black clientele were fun and engaging and we joked around quite a bit. Another older man was as 38-year veteran of the armed service! Thank you sir! I heard some stories... Of course, we ordered half-smokes! They are well-seasoned half-pork, half beef, smoked sausages that are truly incredible. Weenie Beenie's are unique and delicious! Life is good with a historic, unique, fun and respectful half smoke.
Ordered a smoked chili, it was very delicious as I was passing by in my bike route. I didn't know what was a smoked chili and the worker kindly described it to me. I will be returning to try other items.
Finally visited after driving past for years (always wrong time or in a hurry). Located at a busy intersection, but has plenty of parking. Friendly Staff from Cashier to the Grill, interactive and helpful. Reasonable price and service was fast. No frills, old school type of spot that could probably use some love, but the look is part of the vibe. Some seating on the side (picnic type tables) where we enjoyed our lunch on a beautiful day with another customer. The 1/2 Smoke is legit, I liked the hotdog, wife did not. We ended up getting an additional 1/2 Smoke with everything. The Fries & Onion Rings complemented the 1/2 Smoke. Definitely will be back !!!
This is another establishment that I had gone by many times over the years but didn't stop at until very recently. Located in beautiful downtown Shirlington, it's definitely a working class joint. I ordered a cheeseburger and, bottom line, it was excellent. Certainly better than at the national burger chains. Weenie Beenie is a walk up and order place. There's no inside seating nor a drive- thru. Ordering is really casual, maybe to the point of being a tad offputting. What I'm saying is that the person at the window will have you place your order verbally with him. He does not ring you up nor give you a number. You kinda wonder if the order is gonna be filled. But it is filled, and rather quickly. Weenie Beenie takes both cash and cards. Yeah, I'd likely come back for another burger. They have various other sandwiches, including breakfast and cold cut sandwiches. But kinda odd, right now Weenie Beenie's online menu only shows breakfast sandwiches and a Philly Steak and Cheese. Trust me, they really do have burgers.
The yellow sign was calling my name. Weenie Beenie cute! A little restaurant that you walk up and take your food to go, this staple has been around for years. While near the area, I couldn't resist and stopped. I should have gotten breakfast but opted for a turkey club. The gentleman who served me was super friendly, the men patrons who were near all were respectful and made sure I had ordered. This place stays packed. It hasn't changed in 25 plus years since I've been. Let's get into it! Turkey Club - Decent Hot Dog - Get it Breakfast sandwiches - All are really good! Bite into happiness here, where comfort food comes to mind when I think of Weenie Beenie!
Haven't been here in a minute and was craving WB's half smokes. Greeted as I walked up to the window, easy ordering. There were two other patrons trying to beat their 6pm closing time. They have the outside decorated very nicely. Always a pleasure visiting this Arlington institution. Exchanged a quick conversation with the gentleman taking orders. Another patron came as I was departing.
Dude. Don't judge a book by its cover. This place has been open since the 50's and it definitely looks that way. But nonetheless the line is consistent (and pretty quick too) which should tell you something! I got the half smoke with all the fixings, SO good. Doesn't look like much, but trust. 10/10 There's plenty of free parking, and some picnic tables on the side of the building. Also a nice walking or biking trail along the Four Mile Run. Will 100% be back to try other menu items
This place was a bit disappointing, but it was an institution so we decided to try it out. There is no place to sit so it is a grab and go pick up window service situation. The food was cheap and when we got our half smokes we wished we ordered two because they were pretty small. The pick up window sells a lot of other food items so honestly felt a little sus to me. The half smokes were ok compared to Ben's Chili Bowl. Went once just to say I did and probably won't be back.
Today I ordered a HALF SMOKE with light Onions, Mustard and Relish. When I opened my Half Smoke and ate it was hard and chewy, granted I opened / ate it 2 hours after purchasing it. Somehow I don't believe it should've been hard though hehe needless to say, I still ate it / am going to eat it! The customer service is Great' he's always greeting you and food never takes long time make. Another great thing was the parking lot was clear of snow, after the DMV had the biggest snowstorm of the season.
Really cant say toooo much about this spot. Its a neighborhood eatery that you can go to for quick bites. I went and got a grilled cheese as a quick snack. id be interested to try their scrapple sandwich one day or cheesesteak. there is no inside, you order through the front window and the kind man will take your order and bring your food to the same window.
I have been stopping by for 25 yrs. The prices have gone up but the quality and quantity of the food thankfully remains the same, the folks inside keep working hard as ever no matter the weather, I'm so very happy they are able to maintain the establishment during these crazy economic times. Give yourself an indulgent treat and stop by for a bite to eat This is a classic dive, w/ much better than average menu items The half smokes have a nice bite to them, the buns are always soft and fresh.
Phenomenal food for a great price. My boyfriend and I tried the half smoke, fried fish sub, and Philly cheesesteak. Everything was amazing! I highly recommend this place and I'll definitely be coming back
17 days ago
Weenie Beenie has been around since 1954, and they've earned their reputation on the half smokes, which happen to be a favorite of mine. My go-to is fully loaded: onion, chili, mustard, and relish. That's the move. I've worked my way through a lot of the menu, the hot dogs, burgers, bean soup, onion rings, and mac salad. The fries are a seasoned wedge fry, which was a nice surprise and a step up from your standard cut. A large sweet tea is the right call to wash it all down. I still haven't tried the breakfast sandwiches, but they're on my list for next time. This is the kind of longtime local spot that keeps you coming back. Worth a stop. read more
2 months ago
This local institution has been around since 1950 and is the original and only location left. I got the famous Half-Smoke with everything (chili, onions, mustard and relish). The half smoke itself had a great snap to it and was a little spicy with a good smoke flavor. Great stop along the bike trail for a piece of history. read more
Who was Weenie Beenie and what is it like? We had no idea but we knew they were one of the first, if not the first, to serve the legendary half-smoke sausages only available in DC. The visit was unique, the story is unique and the food is unique! Let's do this! Established in 1950 or 1954 (reports vary but the sign on the building says 1954), Weenie Beenie was a modest hot dog stand serving hot dogs and beans. It was started by two brothers, Carl and Bill Staton. Bill happened to be an incredible and ultimately famous traveling pool player who went by the name... you guessed it... Weenie Beenie! He won 27k in Arkansas (which is a LOT of money in the 1950's) and used the money to finance the hot dog stand's growth! He appeared on television, played hustlers across the country, and backed other hustlers while living the pool and entrepreneur life. During the 50's, a period of entrenched segregation in Virginia, Weenie Beenie distinguished itself by hiring black employees on the same terms as whites when most white‑owned businesses would not hire blacks at all. This made Weenie Beenie a rare example of early workplace integration in Arlington and a meaningful employer within the historically Black Green Valley community. Its reputation for fairness became a very important part of its legacy, remembered along with the food and its very colorful founder. We popped over and found a 70+ year old walk-up stand with a colorful, diverse and engaging set of customers and friendly service. In faded letters on the front wall to the left are the 10 commandments! No breaking any divine rules at Weenie Beenie's! We all chatted and I learned the one guy comes every day! The old man in the suit was very polite and reserved. The younger Latin and black clientele were fun and engaging and we joked around quite a bit. Another older man was as 38-year veteran of the armed service! Thank you sir! I heard some stories... Of course, we ordered half-smokes! They are well-seasoned half-pork, half beef, smoked sausages that are truly incredible. Weenie Beenie's are unique and delicious! Life is good with a historic, unique, fun and respectful half smoke. read more
8 days ago
Finally visited after driving past for years (always wrong time or in a hurry). Located at a busy intersection, but has plenty of parking. Friendly Staff from Cashier to the Grill, interactive and helpful. Reasonable price and service was fast. No frills, old school type of spot that could probably use some love, but the look is part of the vibe. Some seating on the side (picnic type tables) where we enjoyed our lunch on a beautiful day with another customer. The 1/2 Smoke is legit, I liked the hotdog, wife did not. We ended up getting an additional 1/2 Smoke with everything. The Fries & Onion Rings complemented the 1/2 Smoke. Definitely will be back !!! read more
This is another establishment that I had gone by many times over the years but didn't stop at until very recently. Located in beautiful downtown Shirlington, it's definitely a working class joint. I ordered a cheeseburger and, bottom line, it was excellent. Certainly better than at the national burger chains. Weenie Beenie is a walk up and order place. There's no inside seating nor a drive- thru. Ordering is really casual, maybe to the point of being a tad offputting. What I'm saying is that the person at the window will have you place your order verbally with him. He does not ring you up nor give you a number. You kinda wonder if the order is gonna be filled. But it is filled, and rather quickly. Weenie Beenie takes both cash and cards. Yeah, I'd likely come back for another burger. They have various other sandwiches, including breakfast and cold cut sandwiches. But kinda odd, right now Weenie Beenie's online menu only shows breakfast sandwiches and a Philly Steak and Cheese. Trust me, they really do have burgers. read more
The yellow sign was calling my name. Weenie Beenie cute! A little restaurant that you walk up and take your food to go, this staple has been around for years. While near the area, I couldn't resist and stopped. I should have gotten breakfast but opted for a turkey club. The gentleman who served me was super friendly, the men patrons who were near all were respectful and made sure I had ordered. This place stays packed. It hasn't changed in 25 plus years since I've been. Let's get into it! Turkey Club - Decent Hot Dog - Get it Breakfast sandwiches - All are really good! Bite into happiness here, where comfort food comes to mind when I think of Weenie Beenie! read more
Haven't been here in a minute and was craving WB's half smokes. Greeted as I walked up to the window, easy ordering. There were two other patrons trying to beat their 6pm closing time. They have the outside decorated very nicely. Always a pleasure visiting this Arlington institution. Exchanged a quick conversation with the gentleman taking orders. Another patron came as I was departing. read more
5 months ago
Dude. Don't judge a book by its cover. This place has been open since the 50's and it definitely looks that way. But nonetheless the line is consistent (and pretty quick too) which should tell you something! I got the half smoke with all the fixings, SO good. Doesn't look like much, but trust. 10/10 There's plenty of free parking, and some picnic tables on the side of the building. Also a nice walking or biking trail along the Four Mile Run. Will 100% be back to try other menu items read more
1 year ago
This place was a bit disappointing, but it was an institution so we decided to try it out. There is no place to sit so it is a grab and go pick up window service situation. The food was cheap and when we got our half smokes we wished we ordered two because they were pretty small. The pick up window sells a lot of other food items so honestly felt a little sus to me. The half smokes were ok compared to Ben's Chili Bowl. Went once just to say I did and probably won't be back. read more
Business owner information
Travis H.
The half smokes are regular size, small batch, and never frozen.…
2 years ago
Today I ordered a HALF SMOKE with light Onions, Mustard and Relish. When I opened my Half Smoke and ate it was hard and chewy, granted I opened / ate it 2 hours after purchasing it. Somehow I don't believe it should've been hard though hehe needless to say, I still ate it / am going to eat it! The customer service is Great' he's always greeting you and food never takes long time make. Another great thing was the parking lot was clear of snow, after the DMV had the biggest snowstorm of the season. read more
2 years ago
Really cant say toooo much about this spot. Its a neighborhood eatery that you can go to for quick bites. I went and got a grilled cheese as a quick snack. id be interested to try their scrapple sandwich one day or cheesesteak. there is no inside, you order through the front window and the kind man will take your order and bring your food to the same window. read more
1 year ago
I have been stopping by for 25 yrs. The prices have gone up but the quality and quantity of the food thankfully remains the same, the folks inside keep working hard as ever no matter the weather, I'm so very happy they are able to maintain the establishment during these crazy economic times. Give yourself an indulgent treat and stop by for a bite to eat This is a classic dive, w/ much better than average menu items The half smokes have a nice bite to them, the buns are always soft and fresh. read more
It's difficult to criticize a NoVa institution, but this place is just okay. The service is great, the staff were very friendly. But all food was school cafeteria level or neighborhood block party level quality of food - powdered lemonade, overcooked halfsmokes and frozen or overcooked fries. Maybe I'm not the right audience or I got the wrong things. We orders the halfsmoke, bbq pulled pork sandwich, fries, onion rings and lemonade. The highlight was the onion rings, which you can tell were frozen but of good quality nonetheless. Not sure if I'll be back. read more
I saw this on IG about their 70 year old anniversary so I came all the way from MD/DC and it was well worth it! Can't wait to try the other subs! I heard their breakfast was awesome here too, according to an elderly customer in line. read more
1 year ago
My first visit to this local favorite. I loved the service and the people working there/ owning this local restaurant. The food was the disappointment and was pretty bland and expensive for what was received. We ordered the chili smoke, a half smoke with egg breakfast sand., a few hamburgers/cheese, no sauces on the burgers, no onion, no pickles, small lettuce. And some onion rings. I will go back and try one of the subs, as those come highly recommended. The fried fish sub is next on my list. I loved the outdoor walk up front and speaking with the amazing staff. Fun hangout spot. read more
1 year ago
Sometimes you just need a greasy, no frills, flavorful hot dog and by god this is the place to do it. A perfectly slivered and grilled half smoke, soft cheap bun, and all the fixings for under $3. I will never again skip this joint (unless it inevitably gives me food poisoning) read more
Founded in 1954, Weenie Beenie is one of the few places in the area where you can get a filling lunch for under $10. Open every day except Sunday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., they sell burgers, hot dogs, half-smokes, BBQ and more. Park in the lot right in front of the walk-up only restaurant. Order through the window (there may be a line) and wait for your order. My order of a half-smoke and chili dog took under five minutes on a Friday around 12:30 p.m. They accept all major credit cards. The four was great, especially the chili dog. Order two for a sizable lunch. There are two picnic tables off to the side. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
10 months ago
2 years ago
I stopped by a Shirlington staple today. It's been one of my favorite dog spots since I moved to the area over a decade ago. Same as always, never disappoints. I also like the half smokes and some other items on the menu. Good eats, no frills at a reasonable price. Small take out spot with quick service and pleasant staff. Try them out if you haven't already. Otherwise, if you know- you know. read more
The food and service was great! I've been to Washington DC on multiple occasions and never went to this spot. This place is a walk up to order in the Arlington Area not to far from the Pentagon City Station. I decided to go and check it out and it was worth the wait. I ordered a beef hot dog with onion rings! The onions rings were crispy, flavorful, and will have you wanting more. The cook John was nice and welcoming! I definitely will back to try out breakfast and other things on the menu. read more
This was some fine, fine grease! You have to get a dog if you're coming to the Weenie Beanie. I mean, it's in the name! I highly recommend the chili smoke, fully loaded. It was snappy and delicious with savory toppings nestled in a soft fluffy bun. The hamburger was just fine. She probably should've gotten the Royal, though I'm not sure what that included. The wedge fries were luke warm, soft and felt hours old. Not recommended. The folks taking your order are attentive and the prep was very fast. I'd definitely prefer this place over any other junk food chain. Two benches on the side, and surrounded by a large parking lot. Make it happen! read more
2 years ago
Nice to have a place like this around. They have their own space, with parking around the building. It's a walk up order service with a few tables. Decorated with a lot of plants in front. I didn't order the food myself, but I got a breakfast sandwich. Weather was too hot to eat anything, but I had this and it was good. I would've added some additional things like hot sauce or mustard, but I didn't. I'll probably return if I'm the area. read more
In search of a half smoke this side of the river. One of the oldest places around but nothing nostalgic to see here. Place looks run down in person. Arrived an hour before closing, ordered a hotdog and a half smoke with chili. Hotdog was OK, good flavor. The half smoke was dried up like leather. If you pay the same price towards the end of the day you should still get the same quality. read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
The half smoke is solid here! The prices aren't too bad and if you're in the area, I'd recommend it for a quick bite. I would say to eat it in your car or on the street and not take it to go because it may get a bit soggy. All in all, not the best half smoke I've had but then again it's a fraction of the price of a DC Ben's chili bowl. read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
I lump Weenie Beenie in with any similar "nostalgia-style" place, it's got a good, basic menu that's consistent, but don't expect to be wowed. It's been a while and this time I got the half-smoke with everything (chili, mustard, relish, and onion), a cheeseburger with chili, and French fries. Half-smoke was the star, and I especially like that they split it, to allow for the toppings to sit nicely. The burger is your basic patty with cheese and the chili is a good addition. Fries stayed crispy until I got home, though personally a seasoned fry isn't my first choice. They're good, but I'd prefer a standard crinkle or shoestring. Not going to knock them for their fry choice, I probably should have gotten onion rings. read more
Ahhhh nothing like a old hole in the wall eatery place to eat. This visit was one of those "I live here so I should try it once"..... I got the half smoke of course and fried which really were wedges. Both were very good the service was fast and polite. Pretty big menu nuff said just don't eat and bike in 90 degree temps! read more
Page 1 of 6
More info about Weenie Beenie
2680 S Shirlington Rd
Arlington, VA 22206
Shirlington
Directions
(703) 671-6661
Call Now
Visit Website
https://www.weeniebeenie.net
Full menu
Hours
Payment methods
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
More Info
Health Score
Ask the Community - Weenie Beenie
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
31 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
2 years ago
14 years ago
13 years ago
2 years ago
15 years ago
7 years ago
13 years ago
7 years ago
13 years ago
7 years ago
15 years ago
12 years ago
13 years ago
6 years ago
4 years ago
13 years ago
15 years ago
15 years ago
9 years ago
