Hot Dogging It: Carm’s Coneys

A Costco dog, this ain’t folks: Carm’s Coneys had a small cult following when it briefly opened shop in Costa Mesa, but now its new home is at the Irvine Spectrum Center. The NY-style hot dogs can now be found inside the food court, but don’t let the inconspicuous location dissuade you. Sure you can get a regular ol’ all beef dog anywhere, but Carm’s Coneys has its dogs shipped in from upstate New York, from factories that make hot dogs the old world way: with high-quality meat, no additives and no artificial colors. Try the Dirty Water Dog, aka the Sabrett, (grilled, not boiled), with red onions. The signature offering is the Coney, made with juicy white veal and pork ($4). Don’t forget to add any of the special New York-based mustards (from Buffalo and Syracuse) they have on hand, but try to keep the toppings minimal to let the flavor of the meat come through. You can even place an order online or via text message.

Carm’s Coneys is in the Cafes at the Oasis Food Court, adjacent to 24 Hr. Fitness, at Irvine Spectrum Center, at 31 Fortune Drive, #216, Irvine.