The image of a larger-than-life Vienna Beef hot dog glows on Redhot Ranch’s incandescent sign, beckoning to drivers as they roll down Western Avenue. Inside the bare-bones eatery that stays open until 5 a.m. on weekends, customers approach a counter to order what are known as Depression dogs—plain buns filled with mustard, onions, relish, and natural-casing beef franks that provide "a pleasing snap and a rush of pure beefy flavor," according to one Serious Eats writer. Cooks bolster franks with piles of freshly cut French fries, which are served (by request) with a side of cheese sauce. French-fried shrimp are another popular menu item, and can be ordered by the pound or half pound.
