Angry Dog has stayed true to its roots, namely, old fashioned grit and uncompromisingly good food.
The Angry Dog looks like a hole in the wall grease pit from the outside, but inside it’s burger mecca. I was first introduced to this joint by a good friend after a hard day’s work at the office about 15 years ago. Situated on Commerce St. in Deep Ellum, this Dallas icon is surrounded by a ton of new eateries and dining concepts. While many of the restaurants in this section of the city tend to blend together (with their yuppie menus and sky high price tags) Angry Dog has stayed true to its roots, namely, old fashioned grit and uncompromisingly good food. Decades ago Deep Ellum was simply known as the spot for small concerts, a few good biker bars, and plenty of tattoo parlors, but nowadays most of these old hangouts are being replaced with trendy, culinary experiences. Places like the Angry Dog buck this trend. This restaurant is an enduring classic, having won every major burger and hot dog award the city has to offer. It’s also worth mentioning that Angry Dog’s bathrooms get my vote for best place to take a leak in all of Dallas (you’ll see why, when you go).
Just like every time I go to The Angry Dog, I started this visit off with a cold beer. They always have a great selection of local beers, as well as plenty of TV’s to watch the game. You’ll find 15-20 beers on tap on any given day, including some of the quality local brews we tried for our craft beer feature. I went with the Lakewood Wit this time, but rest assured, you’ll have plenty of options, and the staff is always willing to give you a taster.
If you come to the Dog without trying their jalapeno poppers you might get beaten up by a biker on the curb. To avoid such a fate, get the mixed basket, as we did, and enjoy these cream cheese and cheddar filled delights. They pair perfectly with an ice cold beer and they’ll get your palate ready for the main event: the colossal hamburger!
For dinner I scored a cheeseburger with grilled jalapeños. They grill the veggies in the burger grease, and heart health be damned, the flavor is delicious. I learned years ago that old griddles make for the best burgers, and the cooks here are vintage in their approach. The burgers are huge, uniquely flavorful, as well as expertly prepared and served. Enjoy the Angry Dog, it’s simple, casual, and true to its roots; that’s why I love it!
Tim and I first visited the Angry Dog shortly after moving to Dallas in 2000. It was a Dallas institution even then, but today it’s still one of our favorite places to go when we’re feeling like a good ol’ greasy burger and a cold beer. Not only beloved by the Dallas Police according to a friend, but also a favorite among the young, old, and everyone in between. You won’t be disappointed! Don’t go here expecting ambience, expect a classic dive bar that delivers on the food, and is easy on the pocket book.
For starters I had a Blue Moon and some cream cheese and cheddar jalapeño poppers with some amazing ranch dip. The dip is laced with some kind of crack, because I swear I am addicted! If you find Blue Moon boring don’t worry. For the more adventurous, Angry Dog has a huge beer selection, wine, and a full bar. I was already stuffed, but being the good girl I am, I decided I’d better roll up my sleeves and get to work on dinner. I ordered The Angry Chicken Sandwich: a marinated grilled chicken breast on a toasted onion bun with mayo, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Of course this came with a generous helping of fries, so I sprinkled on some of their delicious Cajun seasoning and dug in. By the time I was through with dinner there was definitely no room left for dessert.
One thing every Angry Dog patron should do before they leave is pay a visit to the restroom. I hear the men’s room walls are covered with pictures of lovely ladies. I can’t really speak for the guys, but the walls of the women’s restroom are plastered with visions of George Clooney and other gorgeous men.
I loved this place the first time I came, and I love it now! I hope it‘s always here for “Dallasites” to enjoy. I can confidently say that The Angry Dog is staffed by folks who love and care for the future of Deep Ellum and this historic community. Be sure to bring a healthy appetite to The Angry Dog!
