Classic Buffalo Spotlight: George’s Hot Dogs
Looking for a nostalgic place to grab a bite this summer? Located at the corner of South Abbott Road and Herman Hill Road (Route 277) in Boston, New York, just several minutes outside Hamburg, George’s Hot Dogs been serving up grilled hot dogs, milkshakes and other summertime staples for more than 50 years.
A seasonal establishment that opened in 1967, George’s is open from early April to mid-October each year. The titular George Hartman passed away several years ago, but the restaurant’s traditions are carried on by his daughter and current owner/operator Nancy Martin. She’s worked at George’s since she was a teenager.
The food at George’s is simple, affordable and satisfying. Choose from grilled hot dogs, several “Big George” hamburger options, a variety of deep fryer sides and even some Greek and Mexican options, as well as fountain pops and more than a dozen milkshake flavors. Everything’s made to order. There is plenty of seating at more than a dozen picnic tables outside as well.
The Bacon Big George with cheese.
Nancy said many of her customers are generational—former and current Southtowns residents who have enjoyed George’s over the years, now returning from near and far with their children or grandchildren in tow. People exploring the Eternal Flame at the nearby Chestnut Ridge Park stop in on the way home. Local teenagers and college kids—all hired by Nancy herself to ensure they have the right, customer service-minded attitude—work the counter and grill.
The sense of community is immediately obvious even to a first-time visitor, yet it is an inclusive type of family—there’s no “juke box screeching to a halt” feeling when you walk into George’s as an outsider. Just a friendly hello and offer of help if you look uncertain.
On a recent visit on a sunny Sunday afternoon, about half the tables outside were filled, with a steady stream of customers. That’s nothing, according to Nancy—on a sunny day, the line can go out the door and people pull up a comfy patch of grass when the table seating runs out. There are two playground sets onsite for the kids—just one more thing that makes George’s a family-friendly summer oasis.
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George’s Hot Dogs | 5808 Herman Hill Road, Hamburg | Facebook
