Paradise Pup - Des Plaines, IL

1724 S River Rd

Visited January 20, 2018

TV Exposure: Diners Drive-Ins Dives Season 2 Episode 9 Family Owned originally aired November 23, 2007

What: Char Dog, Char Hamburger

Paradise Pup spent good money on a sign to let traffic know they have been featured on Triple D. They continue to capitalize on their 15 minutes of fame and I'm in agreement as the Char Dog I had today reflects the publicity they have received.

Diving in. This is the best dog I have had. It's better than Chicago competition Gene and Jude's, Superdawg, and Portillo's. Prior to this visit, I would have said Portillo's is my favorite, not awesome but still my favorite. That changed today.

Char Dog. Maybe it's unfair to compare the Char Dog with the competition. The Char Dog is grilled whereas the others are steamed. The grilling adds much flavor via the Maillard reaction but this dog also has pronounces snap and a hearty meatiness the others can't match. The components are just so right and complement each other. The mustard isn't overwhelming. The bun, pickle, tomato, neon relish, sport peppers, and onions are fresh perfectly doled out in the right proportions. The taste and flavors are unexpected. Undoubtedly, this is the best hot dog I've had to date.

The guys/brothers/dudes are super nice as they could easily have big heads from their exposure. One is wearing Green Bay Packers clothing so that explains the absence of Chicago rudeness.

Paradise Pup has its own parking lot with a good number of slots.

Food: ★★★1/2
Service: ★★★
Probability of making an out of the way return: 10%
Probability of returning if in the area: 75%
Restaurant parking lot

Bottom Line: The Real Deal

The occupancy limit is exceeded. Call the fire marshal!

 

Second Visit  September 19, 2019