Get Over It -- Show Dogs' Pickled Hot Links Only Look Creepy

M. Ladd

Like specimens in formaldehyde from biology class, the dogs float in their pickle.

​Even adventurous eaters might balk at the jar of pickled hot links on the counter at Show Dogs (1020 Market at Sixth St.), the Tenderloin sausage emporium that opened in July. The jar, nestled right next to the cash register, brings to mind a creepy science lab rather than any semblance of a tasty meal. But -- at least in this case -- looks aren't everything.

The pickled hot link ($3.50) can be served at room temp, sans bun and condiments. There are other, dressier, options, but they'll cost you more. Salivate mightily as you ponder whether to get the pickled link grilled or battered and fried as a corn dog (both $6.25), and then go for the grill. When grilled, the pickled link morphs into a warm, garlicky dog with a slight hint of pungency in the finish. The heat level leaves a pleasant warmth that lingers for a minute or so. House-made relish, mustard, and a pickle slice offer a bit of crunch and sweetness, a nice counter to the link's heat.

If you do go the corn dog route, try it with barbecue fries ($3.75). Paired with a fresh honeyed lemonade, they add up to a cheap eats meal in a clean, light-filled setting -- never mind the homeless guys outside yelling motherFer at each other. At least the Show Dogs crew is friendly: With nary a napkin dispenser in sight, they tucked a nice wad beneath the basket of our pickled link.