Chicago Dawgs are Back this Weekend Only!
Aisle 240, Row 5, Seat 6. That’s where I would have sat during Game 3 of the 2003 MLB World Series. . .only if.
Only if Chicago Cubs super fan Steve Bartman hadn’t blocked outfielder Moisés Alou’s attempt at catching a foul ball in the eighth inning of Game 6 of the National League Championship Series. With the Cubbies up 3-0 and ahead in the series 3-2, the good guys were in position to close out the series. But it was not to be; the Florida Marlines came back to wine the game and the series and went on to defeat the New York Yankees in six to become the World Champions.
The $125 ticket purchased for me by my bff Bernie Berry of Chicago is framed and hanging from my office wall at home. . .I can see it now as I write this newsletter. Another of life’s unfulfilled dreams that I’ve had to get over.
And I’ve become a master at forgiving my Cubbies, renewing my faith each year when April and the opening of baseball season roll around. As we’ve done for many years now, we celebrate this annual rite by serving authentic Chicago hot dogs in the wine bar of the friendly confines of Carpe Vino.
This year, our special event runs just three days: Friday through Sunday (April 4-6). We have a limited supply of truly authentic dogs available, with all of the fixings, dogs and buns imported from Chicago: S. Rosen poppy seed buns, steamed before serving; all-beef Vienna brand hot dogs; neon green relish; sport peppers; dill pickle spear; tomato, onion and yellow mustard (French’s is traditional). The secret ingredient—the component that distinguishes this tasty treat—is celery salt. Trust me on this.
My annual warning is this, take heed: Anyone who requests ketchup will be summarily and without warning ejected from the premises.
Served with tater tots, Chef Alexander’s Chicago hot dogs are Sleep Train Arena priced at $8 each; two for $12. Dawgs can be ordered only in the bar; they will not be served in the dining room and are available as long as supplies last. When they’re gone, that’s it!