Bag N.J.’s 25 best hot dog joints ranked, for National Hot Dog Day
There are probably more hot dog trucks, carts and storefronts crammed into Passaic, Essex, Bergen and Union counties than any comparably-sized area in the country.
Birthplace of the Italian hot dog? Newark, Jimmy Buff's, 1932.
Birthplace of the chili dog or Texas weiner? Paterson or Plainfield, take your pick (both cities claim the honor).
Moving on up... #9
Toby’s Cup, on Route 22 in Lopatcong, looks more like a carnival fun house than hot dog stand, with its sputnik-like globe (what the heck is that?) atop the roof, and cramped, low-ceilinged interior more reminiscent of a drive-in movie snack bar. Its new owner promises an expansion; hopefully that won’t mar Toby’s considerable charm. They use a Berks beef/pork dog, a rarity in NJ. Oh, and it’s better than the much more heralded Hot Dog Johnnys in nearby Buttzville. 857 Memorial Parkway, Lopatcong; (908) 859-1925.