Dad's Hot Dogs — Restaurant in Stockton

Oh snap. I dropped in less than a hour before closing on a weekend, probably not the best time. I have been here several times before many years ago though. Good memories of a classic hot dog. But this time was different.

Dad’s Hot Dogs is a Stockton, CA, legend. They have been around since 1979. Classic 1980s hot dog counter joint complete with coin twist candy machines. But with modern feels. Not locked in time. Different owners now from the original. They use the same hot dog brand. If it ain't broke.

There was one staff person and she was a one person crew. Cashiering, putting the orders together, and cleaning up. She was helpful with a calm, pleasant easy going demeanor. I ordered a kraut dog and hubs a dog with onions, relish, tomatoes, and mustard. The dogs were on the softer side, probably left in the steamer a bit too long. Because of that, they didn't have a snap to it. But the snap is an iconic part of a quality hot dog eating experience. It is so satisfying to hear it and feel that bite. The buns tasted soft steamed as well. I also ordered the fresh squeezed lemonade. It was mild tasting and definitely tasted home made. The sauerkraut was in the perfect middle meaning not crunchy and not overly fermented to have a sour taste.

The seasonal fresh lemonade is an awesome down home touch. If you like it extra sweet, just add sugar yourself and adjust. I like it the way it was. Hubs brought on the sugar. $5 for 32 oz. They have 7 flavors beyond the original.

I am bumping my rating by a star to four; they just need to work on the hot dog rotation to make sure they do not sell any mushy dogs through...

This was my first time coming here. It’s been around for 40+ years. There’s a reason for that. The service here is great. They said to my 8yr old that when he was done eating, he could go around the other side of the counter and pick out candy. When he did, they said grab one each for mom and dad too. This was something that will always set this wonderful establishment apart from anything else like it. Its called kindness. Say it with me Kindness. It’s moments like this that create memories. And this place has memories all over the walls and brings such character to it. The hot dogs taste like hot dogs. Who knew? I guess some people expect something like a hotdog from Ruth’s Chris. Don’t be that person and don’t expect that. It’s a hotdog. The service was above and beyond what I expected. Great place to grab a quick bite. Newer establishments can learn so much from this place. Thanks...

Unfortunately I am not able to rate the food, nor the atmosphere in all sincerity. This past week my husband and I had a craving for a Corn Dog, we found Dads on Google and stopped in shortly before closing we walked in stood at the counter reading the wall menu in anticipation of placing an order to go. One employee was at the front counter not more than 10 feet from us, she appeared to be filling an order for pick up, the other employee was near the back counter socializing. For more than 5 minutes we stood there reviewing the menu on the wall waiting to be served to no avail. After a few more minute of not even an acknowledgment from either employee we walked out. Not quite sure why we didn’t receive any service not even an acknowledgment but I will say my husband and I were the only African Americans in Dads that evening and it was our 1st time there. Be assured we won’t be...