Don’t Let “Swanky” Fool You

Contributed Photo

From Swanky Frank’s unassuming exterior, located at 182 Connecticut Ave., just off I-95 exit 14 in Norwalk, you would never guess that this little dive is home to some of the best hot dogs in the Fairfield County area.

While most people would pass by a place like this, writing it off as a future bellyache, a person like me sees a foodie gold mine. That’s why I had to step in to see what Swanky Frank’s has to offer.

With Swanky Frank’s classic trailer-turned-diner feel, you can tell not much has changed here since its opening over 35 years ago.

The emphasis here is on the food — not the decor — as Frank’s has minimal seating options besides sitting at the bar, which, by the way, is the best seat in the house. Through this particular vantage point you gain a view into the work in the kitchen where Frank’s churns out outstanding deep-fried hot dogs and other American comfort foods.

The hot dogs are all deep-fried to perfection; however, for those looking to save on the grease, they have an option to split the dogs and grill them for twenty-five cents extra.

If you’re anything like me and like some spice with your meal, they have Swanky’s Red Hot, their spiced up hot dog. Pair that up with some cheese and homemade chili and you get a fiery concoction guaranteed to be the right kind of spicy that makes you sweat a bit.

Also on the menu is an amazing — never thought I’d say this — grilled cheese sandwich. With buttered toast and gooey cheese, this sandwich throws you into a nostalgic trip back to your elementary  school cafeteria.

Other menu items include hamburgers, meatloaf sandwich, seafood items such as clam strips and lobster rolls, and of course fries and onion rings.

Conveniently located and not too far from Costco and Wal-Mart, no shopping trip can be satisfactory without a stop at Swanky Frank’s.

With a hot dog, grilled cheese, and fries coming up to about nine dollars there’s no excuse to not jump in and enjoy some of Swanky Frank’s tasty goods. All you need to do is get past Frank’s gritty appearance and let them do the rest of the work. One of the few shops in the area I designate as a must-have, I give Swanky Frank’s four out of five stars.