Fat Johnnie's Famous Red Hots - Hot dog restaurant in Chicago - 7242 S Western Ave, USA

As a continuation with eats from “Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites”, my next stop was Fat Johnnies but NOT for The Mother In Law (as stated in the book) but rather the Mighty Dog. This is essentially the MIL but add a hotdog and cheese (to the tamale & chili on a bun dragged through the garden). This will be a preference to corn rolled tamales. Personally, the tamale gave it a gritter and drier taste in my mouth which is a carb redundacy with the bun. However, the red hot had snap and was super tasty and salty. Overall, I would prefer the standard Chicago dog (sans the cucumber). Nonetheless, the quality of food is high while prices are suprisingly low. This small shack is only take-out and CASH ONLY. I believe the owner works the line and was very friendly. I will try their regular dog another day.

The BEST Chicago Style polish I’ve had! The two owners were friendly and took our order promptly. Got 3 sandwiches and 3 drinks for under $22 ;) This will definitely be my go to place when I’m in town.

Absolutely delicious, a true Chicago hotspot. I absolutely love the original classic look of a hot dog stand. I highly recommend stopping here and getting a red hot. Best hot dog. The staff was extremely friendly. They did have several umbrella covered picnic tables to sit at which was really nice..we drove a little over 20 miles to get here. Street parking is available obviously first come first serve just watch out for signs posted on when there is absolutely no parking. I was there today and sign posted no parking Wednesday from 9-2 probably when they street sweep. But this place is an absolute gem. I will definitely be back more.

Been going to Fat Johnny's over 45 years. Was working at White Castle when they were at 71st and Western. Anytime l am in the area must have 2 cheese dogs with everything. Stopped by today still the same Great. Thank you for not changing a thing.

Great hotdog from a shack on the side of the road. Can’t beat that! The e tamales aren’t anything like what one thinks of tamales. I have never had a tamale with tomato and cucumber in a hotdog bun before. Worth the try and will revisit when back in Chicago.

Nice little Hot Dog stand that's been there in the same spot for years. The more things change around this place, the more they stay the same. Same great tasting hot dogs as when I was a teenager. Prices are reasonable and u can pretty much step up and get ur food quickly. They have an outdoor seating area to enjoy ur food. Got a couple hot dogs (regular red hot and a chili cheese dog) which were very good. A bag of chips and a fountain soda. Total was under 10 bucks. Stop in and show a community staple so love.

I have been coming since I could walk and my Grandma was a regular for ever Western 😁😁😁I'm over 40 years of age now This is the Real Goat of Chicago land Hot dogs Polish Hand Down if you in Chicago and want to eat the real hot dogs fat Jonny sesame seed bun come on can't get no better than that

Had the Red Hot 1/4 lb dog with cheese and all the toppings. If you want authentic Chicago dogs this place is a must try. Fast, cheap and tasty. 😋