When it comes to restaurants steeped in history, Connecticut has them in spades. From the birthplace of the hamburger at Louis’ Lunch to the Griswold Inn’s oldest continuously operating inn in the state for nearly 250 years, Connecticut has so many great restaurants that have truly stood the test of time.
One such spot that has earned its place among Connecticut’s most iconic culinary landmarks is Blackie’s Hot Dog Stand in Cheshire.
Established in 1928, this family-owned roadside eatery has been serving up its legendary hot dogs with a side of history for almost a century. This beloved roadside stop has captured the hearts of locals and travelers alike, providing a nostalgic dining experience that transcends generations.
The story began when Mary Mahoney, who emigrated from Ireland, and her husband Art Blackman opened a gas station.
It quickly evolved into a gathering spot for their famous hot dogs, and soon, Blackie’s became a local institution.
Today, it’s still run by the same family, keeping its old-school charm and unique traditions alive.
The menu at Blackie’s remains simple and focused, with just a few key items: hot dogs, burgers, and their signature spicy pepper relish (more on this in a bit).
Forget about fries. This spot has never served them, sticking to its original formula of hot dogs, Utz chips, and refreshing birch beer. The no-frills approach is part of the magic. Everything is straightforward, but each bite bursts with flavor.
As they like to say, “all you need to know is how many to order: one, two or 3 and a cheese (translation: 3 Hot dogs and one Cheeseburger!).”
While the dogs themselves are plump and perfectly boiled, it’s the relish that steals the show.
Unlike traditional sweet pickle relish, Blackie’s secret family recipe features a peppery kick that’s so beloved, it’s even been sent to the International Space Station! It adds the perfect kick to their already flavorful hot dogs.
For those who can’t get enough, you can even take home a jar of the relish to enjoy later.
One of the most charming things about Blackie’s is its commitment to staying true to its roots. The restaurant has undergone a few renovations over the years—most notably after a fire in 1945—but the iconic red-and-white building remains as inviting as ever. Inside, the wooden counters and octagonal towers create a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere that makes every visit feel like stepping back in time.
Another tradition? Blackie’s is always closed on Fridays, a nod to the founders’ Catholic roots.
This long-standing practice remains part of the restaurant’s unique identity, along with its simple, cash-only setup (don’t worry, there’s an ATM on-site if you forget to bring some bills).
For nearly a century, Blackie’s has been the go-to spot for a quick, tasty, and affordable meal.
There’s a reason why families keep coming back year after year. It’s the kind of place that feels like home, where traditions are honored and simple pleasures are celebrated.
So the next time you’re in Cheshire, swing by Blackie’s for a hot dog (or two!) and a taste of Connecticut’s culinary history. You’ll leave with a full belly, a smile, and maybe even a jar of that famous relish.
Blackie’s Hot Dog Stand is located at 2200 Waterbury Rd. in Cheshire, and is open 11 am to 7 pm from January through March and 11 am to 8 pm from April through December. Remember, it’s closed on Fridays.
You can learn more by visiting their website.