Superdawg Drive-In

Superdawg Drive-In sits at 6363 N Milwaukee Ave in the Norwood Park neighborhood on Chicago's northwest side, Illinois, and is among the city's most recognizable roadside landmarks. Two giant hot dog statues, nicknamed Maurie and Flaurie, stand on the roof and look down on the lot, their eyes lit in neon after dark. The business opened in 1948 and has stayed in the same family, preserving a mid-century drive-in format that is increasingly rare in the city. The cuisine is Chicago hot dogs, with all-beef franks served in the local style. The Superdawg hot dog is the signature order, and the Whoopskidawg, a larger variation, is the other well-known item. Cheddar fries, shakes and milk-style drinks complete the menu. Service follows the drive-in routine: customers park, order by speaker, and receive their food on a tray attached to the car window, or they order at a walk-up window. The setting is retro, nostalgic and casual, with neon, kitsch and a small but steady crowd of locals, families and visitors seeking the classic experience; noise is low to moderate and dress is informal. Prices are inexpensive. Hours run Sunday to Thursday 11AM to 1AM and Friday to Saturday 11AM to 2AM, so the drive-in is also a late-night destination. Reservations are not used. Because Norwood Park is away from downtown, visitors generally need a car or rideshare to reach it, which also fits the drive-in concept. Evenings in warm weather draw the largest crowds, and the experience of eating in the car under the neon statues is the main reason to make the trip. The address is a convenient stop for travelers heading to or from O'Hare Airport. The phone number is 773-763-0660.