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By Mizuki Ogi

If you’re looking for a unique combination of Japanese and North American food then this is the place to go.

Vancouver-born JAPADOG, who makes Japanese style hot dogs, has been gaining its popularity rapidly. It currently has two stores in Vancouver and New York and several stands and trailers in the Westside of Canada.

So, what’s the big deal? To be honest, I’m not a big fan of hot dogs, however, I was impressed by the variety of hot dogs when I stepped into the store.

There are more than 10 choices; NEGI MISO, YAKINIKU RICE, OKONOMIYAKI, CROQUETTE, TERIMAYO, OROSHI, TONKATSU, UME, YAKISOBA, EBI TEMPURA etc… the restaurant also has a combo menu that includes pop and Shaked (flavoured) fries, which also has various tastes such as butter and shoyu, shichimi and garlic, aonori, and ume shiso. The best part is that each location has a slightly different menu. You never be in love with just one style.

JAPADOG’s recommendation, KUROBUTA TERIMAYO that has its original sausage made of a rare breed of pigs called Berkshire with Teriyaki sauce, onion and chopped nori. Photo courtesy: Mizuki Ogi

There is always lineup after people finish work, and because the establishment is small the turnover is very quick so that it does not make you wait for a long time. It gives you just enough time to think what you want to grab.

The majority of the customers are Canadian. It seems that the new style of hot dogs are much to their liking of people used to North American streetfood. Of course, it fascinates Japanese as well because you never be able to taste this eccentric street food in Japan!