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While the Coney Island hot dog originated in New York, you can find some of the best versions of the treat at two competing neighboring restaurants on Lafayette Street in Detroit. Even though both restaurants are no longer family owned, the two are still rivals and icons of Detroit’s food industry.
American Coney Island
First, we visited American Coney Island, which was founded in 1917 by Greek immigrant Gust Keros. He moved to Detroit from Greece in 1903.
We had to wait a few minutes for a table, but a waiter quickly came and took our order. A few minutes later, a Coney Island hot dog, a bowl of chili, and an order of fries were set in front of us. Everything was delicious and as advertised by my brother and his wife, Nicole (a native Detroiter).
Lafayette Coney Island
Next, we went next door to the much smaller Lafayette Coney Island. It was founded by Gust’s brother, William, in 1924, after the space became available. This started a friendly family rivalry on who could offer the best Coney Island dog in the city.
We couldn’t find a seat so we ordered one hot dog from the counter and ate outside. Again, it was delicious.
Conclusion
As Nicole mentioned, Marisol and I weren’t allowed to leave Detroit without trying these Coney Island hot dogs, and we heeded her warning. It happened to be the best lunch we had during our trip to the city.
Our verdict: Lafayette. Their dog just had a little something extra that I can’t pinpoint.
