Pink's Hot Dogs

Pink's Hot Dogs is a stand on North La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles, California, that has been operating since 1939, when it began as a pushcart and later grew into a permanent hot dog stand. It is one of the best-known street-food landmarks in the city and a familiar presence in popular culture, and it has long drawn film industry figures, locals and tourists. The format is walk-up counter service: customers queue outside, order at the window, and eat standing at counters or at outdoor tables. The signature item is the chili dog, a snappy hot dog topped with thick house chili, mustard and onions. The menu lists dozens of variations, many named after celebrities, and the Martha Stewart dog, topped with relish, onions, mushrooms, bacon, sour cream and tomatoes, is among the more recognisable. Other options include chili cheese fries, burgers and tamales. Drinks are limited to sodas and similar items, with no alcohol programme. The atmosphere is lively and informal, with a busy corner location, neon signage and memorabilia, and it is particularly active late at night after films and concerts, when the queue can extend along the pavement. Dress is entirely casual. Reservations do not apply, and waits can range from a few minutes to well over half an hour at peak hours, though service is quick. Prices are among the lowest of any landmark in Los Angeles, with a typical meal costing about 8 to 18 US dollars. The stand is at the edge of the Fairfax and La Brea neighbourhoods, close to the La Brea Tar Pits and museums and the Melrose shopping district. Parking is available in a small lot that fills quickly, and street parking nearby is metered or restricted.