Gus's Hotdogs — Restaurant in City of Watervliet

Gus’s Hotdogs is a true local institution, known more for its nostalgic charm than for culinary finesse. Although I personally don’t eat meat, I relied on the impressions of my family — my kids, wife, and mother — to understand why this place holds such a reputation.

The standout here is the small, traditional hotdogs, served in soft, fresh buns with various sauces. While the sausages themselves are decent, the overwhelming variety of toppings tends to mask the natural flavor of the meat. They also offer burgers, but most visitors come specifically for the hotdogs that have become symbolic of this place.

What really defines Gus’s is its atmosphere. It’s unapologetically old-school: cash-only payments, no credit cards, and a brisk, almost brusque style of service. That quick, rough-around-the-edges interaction is actually part of the appeal, giving the whole experience a kind of gritty authenticity. Expect to wait in line — and understand that the line itself is part of what people love, as it adds to the sense of “you must try this” that keeps the place buzzing.

Importantly, this is not a destination for gourmet exploration. The food is simple, straightforward, and, some might argue, overhyped — but that’s exactly what makes Gus’s special. Its value comes from the shared ritual, the local tradition, and the feeling that you’ve stepped into something bigger than just a meal. If you go in knowing that, you’ll likely appreciate the experience...

I'm giving up on Gus's. I've been an avid and satisfied patron for many many years until the past few. For the first 15 years it was fun and exciting and somewhat amazing experience. Now they're relying a lot on their earned reputation and in turn they'll serve just about anything as fast as they can out that window. The burgers I had a dinner were sitting on the grill since lunch. They have the most bitter raw onion (mixed in the fried onions when you ask for fried onions) and the overall hygiene of the place is becoming no longer acceptable. Prices went up. Still reasonably priced of course but the bitter overcooked sauce and bitter onions (they always had the worst onions) and the dried out sausages and burgers make the competition much more tempting. Bugs everywhere outside because of all the grease on the side of the building and not a stitch of maintenance on any part of the building or picnic tables (rotting wood). Its just no...

So normally you know I love to take pictures before I devour the food ... BUT this was hard. Ever since I was younger I have loved Gus's hotdogs, eating one of those mini dogs really brings back memories. The best way to get them dressed is the works -- onions, mustard, meat sauce oh my!! They also seve burgers and my all time favorite, the sausage sandwich with cheese. THAT right there is what makes me think of my Nana and makes me keep coming back.

This is a no nonsense place, cranking out some good eats for really good prices. If you are in the area check it out and be respectful of the business and community. One of the things I love most is that the establishment sits right in a neighborhood and just makes sense.

Yesterday was the first time this summer for me, but will NOT be my last!!!

Get over and get some food. Tell em Vin Vin sent ya, I'm trying to see something!

Until next...