Ken W.
Yelp
My favorite hotdogs east of DTLA. They are nearly perfect both in taste and execution. The franks are the same snappy Hoffy ones used by Pink's in Hollywood, except while at Pink's you have a plethora of choices and topping combos; here at Chronie's in ELA, there is but a spartan, zen-like offering of two: 1) a hotdog that comes standard with mustard, ketchup (sacrilegious, I know), and chopped onions, and 2) a chili dog that comes with mustard, onions, and their special chili sauce (add a slice of American, if you want, for extra)
I say "chili sauce" instead of "chili" because this ain't no eatin' chili; it's a topping-- like gravy. Who would dig into a bowl of gravy?? Its superpower manifests itself when it assists the main player, whether it's fries, a burger, or a tamale.
I have to highlight the genius in this chili dog. Not only is it perfect in taste but in execution. Lesser establishments just "put it together". At Chronie's? A snappy frank, steamed, nestled into a steamed bun. Atop this, mustard, then chopped onions. THEN they ladle on the chili sauce. Everything is held together. No onions on your lap. This is a well thought-out dog.
The chili fries are portioned generously yet still manageable. The chili tamale, if I remember correctly, use those XLNT brand ones with the nuclear orange masa-- a guilty pleasure of mine, and perfect for this kind of place.
Some caveats-- their chili burgers, while delicious, have lettuce. If that's not your thing, then let them know. If you're in a hurry, they'll take a while to make. One reason I like to stay with the steamed menu options.
Another very very important thing-- they have grape soda.
Ambiance? Patio eating on picnic tables with sparrows flying around waiting for a handout.
Parking is generous.
They take credit cards
Their pastrami? Standard with mustard and pickles, but really.... I go there for the chili dogs.
And so should you.