Local Lunch - Urban Hotdog Company

Too many times I'm forced to brave the restaurant world on my own. I head down to try a new diner or a cafe I've never been to or attend an event completely solo.

Thankfully, I was saved from having to try out one of Albuquerque's newest eateries when Kara from Film & Food contacted me about joining forces in our quests to take on the local food scene.

We chose to tackle Urban Hotdog Company, a new gourmet hotdog joint up near Cottonwood Mall.

The day I heard a hotdog place was coming to town, my mind immediately jumped back to the memories of Dogtown in Enid, Oklahoma and the many, many dogs I consumed while living there. I loved the variety and creativity and hoped for more of that at UHDC.

My expectations were fulfilled when I saw the menu and exceeded when I tried one of their specialty hot dogs.

Here's a peek at their menu, highlighting my choice for the day; the Crafty Dog.

You can't go wrong with mac & cheese topped with bacon on a hot dog, but UHDC does it up right. They butter the buns, they make the mac & cheese fresh each day, and they're generous with the crisped bits of bacon.

This hot dog could have been dreamt up by a four-year-old kid, but it's given the gourmet treatment and it shows through its flavor and richness.

My table-mate, Kara, opted for something a little more "upscale" with Le Bleu -- a bacon-wrapped dog with sautéed mushrooms, blue cheese and thyme.

I had the tiniest tinge of order envy after seeing her hot dog come out but that was suppressed by the gooeyness of the mac & cheese.

But next time, I've got my eyes set on Le Bleu.

Next time, my friend. Next time.

And the next time I choose to try out something new, I hope I have company as enjoyable as Kara.

Be sure to check out Kara's blog, Film & Food, for the scoop on local food and the world of cinema.



And of course, check out Urban Hotdog Company. Find them on Facebook or check out their website for a look at their full menu.