Hot Dog Joint Review

Dunbar Bowling Lanes

Dunbar

2.5 Weenies

I practically grew up bowling alleys. My mom bowled two or three times a week and I always had to go along. As a single divorced mother she would often feed me bowling alley food for dinner on those evening when she worked late and bowled early. Hamburgers and french fries were staples then, but I eventually came to the conclusion that hot dogs are much more dependable, quality-wise, in a bowling alley grill than virtually any other food type. I'm not sure why this is so.

Anyway, a reader suggested a visit to Dunbar Bowling Center for a hot dog, so when I found myself on my way back to Charleston one day at lunch time I thought I should check it out.

The first thing I noticed is that it is very difficult to park in that part of Dunbar. Every space seems to be reserved or has a "two hour parking" sign with cars that look intent on getting every last minute's worth of their allotted time. I circled the block three times trying to find a spot and finally nabbed one just as one of the two-hour parkers vacated.

My reader had told me that the hot dogs were "first-rate." I was expecting great, but only got "good." Only good because of a complete lack of anything distinctive. Slaw is sweet, creamy and served in the proper amount. The chili was okay. The bun was a little crusty and it was served in one of those blasted styrofoam boxes. The best thing about the experience was that it was a nice day and I ate my dog outside under a tree on a park bench.

Overall, I can't say anything bad about the dog, can't say anything overly good about it. Not dissapointing, but not one I would go out of my way for.

I had forgotten, though, what a neat little bowling alley Dunbar has. If nothing else the trip was worth it just to see it again.