These folks are serious about their dogs!

At 11 on Saturday morning, they began assembling at the famed Galloping Hill Inn (www.gallopinghillcaterers.com) in Union, to board the school bus that would take them to five more of the state’s illustrious hot dog eateries. (watch video)

The group of several dozen, led by top dog John Fox, met through a foodie website called www.roadfood.com.  Dog lovers from five states joined the journey, picking the itinerary as carefully as they selected the beer that filled coolers to accompany the long, parched journey.

The plan was to stop first at Jimmy Buff’s (www.jimmybuff.com), the East Hanover location, one of four.  First meal of the day: the Buff’s Italian dog stuffed into a carved- out roll, topped with sauteed onions, peppers and potatoes.

 Then, on to Papaya King (www.papayaking.com) in Clifton, newly opened, and straight out of  New York City’s famed chain… dogs to die for, washed down with a variety of tropical smoothies.  

Next, Libby’s Lunch  (98 McBride Avenue)  in Paterson; some claim this to be the birthplace of the original Texas weiners. Franks are deep fried, then topped with mustard, chili, and onions. Spicy and delicious.

Finally, back down the Parkway to the Father & Son Luncheonette (10 E.Blanke Street) in Linden, for all-beef dogs and the excellent chili. Last stop was Manny’s Texas Weiners (www.mannystexasweinerslinden.com), also in Linden, specializing in those Texas dogs with great toppings.

This was the fourth annual New Jersey Hot Dog Tour.  It is admittedly concentrated in the north, but each year, organizers try to add a few new stops along with the old favorites. 

For a restaurant like Papaya King to make the tour, means it has made the honor roll.

And for most of us, who crave a good hot dog every once and a while,  this group’s endorsement is better than any critic’s review. After all,  these folks won’t accept anything less than the top dog!