hero image of Crif Dogs
Crif Dogs

New York, United States

Discover Crif Dogs on St Marks Place, Manhattan's Hidden Gem for Creative Hot Dogs and Chill Vibes.

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's East Village at 113 St Marks Place, Crif Dogs is not your ordinary hot dog joint. This vibrant eatery has carved a niche with its inventive hot dogs that push traditional boundaries, featuring unique toppings like avocado, sour cream, cotija cheese, and bacon wrapping. Whether you're a local foodie or a digital nomad craving a quick, flavorful bite, Crif Dogs offers an energetic yet laid-back ambiance that perfectly blends chill vibes with retro arcade fun.

[Section Heading]

Beyond its creatively crafted menu featuring crowd favorites like the “Chihuahua” and “Elote Dog,” Crif Dogs also caters to vegetarians with delicious veggie dog options. The friendly and attentive staff enhances the experience, making visitors feel right at home. Dining here means enjoying your meal surrounded by nostalgic arcade games like Ms. Pac-Man and Galaga, adding a quirky and fun dimension to your visit.

Perfect for Quick Bites and Late-Night Cravings

Open from noon until the early hours of the morning (2 AM on weekdays and 3 AM on weekends), Crif Dogs is ideal for those seeking tasty lunch, dinner, or late-night snacks. Whether you're grabbing a quick takeout or dining in with friends, you can enjoy a menu that includes vegetarian fare, cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day exploring New York City.
  • Unique Menu Creations - Innovative hot dogs with bold flavors and quality ingredients.
  • Fun Ambiance - Retro arcade games create a cool chill vibe you won’t find elsewhere.
  • Hidden Speakeasy Access - Discover Please Don't Tell (PDT), a secret bar accessed through a phone booth inside.
  • Family Friendly - Welcoming to children and perfect for casual family dining.

Frequently Asked Questions about Crif Dogs

  • What are the operating hours of Crif Dogs? Crif Dogs operates from 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM on weekdays and 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM on weekends.
  • Is there a vegetarian option available? Yes, Crif Dogs offers a veggie dog with various toppings for non-meat eaters.
  • How can I access the hidden bar, Please Don't Tell (PDT)? The speakeasy is accessible through a phone booth inside Crif Dogs.

Community Sentiment and Local Favorites

The local community and visitors alike speak highly of Crif Dogs, praising its inventive hot dog creations, welcoming staff, and casual, fun atmosphere. Many patrons appreciate the unique twist on classic street food, while the hidden speakeasy bar adds an element of intrigue and excitement to the overall experience. Whether you're a New Yorker or a traveler exploring Manhattan's food scene, Crif Dogs is a destination that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant and eclectic spirit of St Marks Place.
Plan your visit today and enjoy a bold, flavorful hot dog experience unlike any other in New York City.

Crif Dogs history overview in new york city east village location 113 st marks place nyc 10009 us usa restaurant food establishment creative hot dogs late night service unique speakeasy pdt please dont tell timeline events 2003 2007 timeline years iconic spot beloved locals visitors

Nestled in the vibrant heart of New York City's East Village, Crif Dogs stands as a culinary beacon famed for its imaginative hot dog creations and inviting late-night ambiance. Since opening its doors in 2003, it has cultivated a devoted following among both locals and visitors seeking a distinctive New York dining experience.

The Beginning and Rise to Popularity

From its inception, Crif Dogs captured attention with its creative spin on the classic hot dog, elevating this humble street food into an art form. The year 2003 marked its launch in the East Village, a neighborhood celebrated for its eclectic energy and culinary innovation. Early patrons were drawn to Crif Dogs' inventive menu that included bold toppings and unexpected flavor combinations, making it a pioneering eatery in the city's competitive food scene.

A Hidden Gem: The Speakeasy Experience

In 2007, Crif Dogs added a layer of intrigue to its appeal by unveiling a secret speakeasy known as Please Don't Tell (PDT) , accessible only through a discreet phone booth inside the restaurant. This hidden bar concept quickly became iconic, blending the thrill of exclusivity with expertly crafted cocktails, thereby enhancing Crif Dogs' reputation as more than just a place to eat.

Legacy and Visitor Experience Today

Today, Crif Dogs remains a beloved establishment in the East Village, celebrated not only for its bold and inventive hot dog menu but also for its relaxed, fun atmosphere that appeals to families and food enthusiasts alike. The combination of flavorful offerings, from bacon-wrapped sausages to creative toppings like cotija cheese and avocado, alongside the unique arcade-style vibe, offers guests a memorable dining experience that reflects the dynamic spirit of New York City.
  • 2003 Opening - Crif Dogs launched in the East Village, introducing its unique hot dog creations to the NYC food scene.
  • 2007 Speakeasy Addition - The hidden bar Please Don't Tell (PDT) was established inside Crif Dogs, adding a secretive allure.

Crif Dogs at a glance

Located at 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY, Crif Dogs is a unique hot dog restaurant that has made a name for itself with inventive creations and a laid-back atmosphere. This establishment combines delicious food with a quirky ambiance, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. With a hidden speakeasy bar and late-night hours, it offers a delightful experience for those looking to enjoy a casual bite or a fun night out.

Pros

  • Inventive hot dog creations
  • Friendly staff
  • Unique ambiance with hidden speakeasy bar
  • Late-night hours
  • Customizable options

Cons

  • Limited seating
  • No public restrooms
  • Can be crowded during peak hours

Ideal for

Crif Dogs is perfect for casual dining, late-night snacks, and family outings. Its friendly atmosphere and inventive menu make it a great choice for food lovers of all ages.

Things to know before visiting

Be prepared for limited seating, especially during peak hours. While there are no public restrooms, the friendly staff is always ready to assist. Parking is available on the street, but it can be tricky to find a spot.

Overall impression

Crif Dogs stands out for its creative hot dog offerings and a welcoming vibe that invites guests to relax and enjoy. While it has some limitations, the overall experience is well worth a visit, especially for those looking to indulge in unique culinary delights.

Discover Crif Dogs on St Marks Place New York City Hot Dog Haven with a Twist

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan at 113 St Marks Place, Crif Dogs offers a uniquely creative hot dog experience that captivates both locals and visitors alike. This spot is not your average eatery—it's where gourmet meets playful, crafting hot dogs that are as imaginative as the East Village itself. Whether you're a foodie craving bold flavors or a digital nomad hunting for a chill spot to refuel, Crif Dogs delivers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Innovative Hot Dogs and Vegetarian Delights

At Crif Dogs, the menu breaks free from tradition with inventive creations like the “Chihuahua” topped with avocado, sour cream, and wrapped in crispy bacon, or the “Elote dog” featuring cotija cheese and corn. Vegetarian visitors will appreciate the thoughtfully crafted veggie dog topped with a variety of flavorful options — proving that everyone can indulge in this hot dog haven. The portions are generous, and the prices, while reflecting the quality, make this spot a must-try for food lovers exploring New York City’s diverse culinary scene.

Vibrant Atmosphere and Hidden Surprises

More than just food, Crif Dogs offers an inviting, "chill/arcade" vibe that keeps guests coming back. Enjoy your meal perched at arcade game tables featuring classics like Ms. Pac-Man and Galaga, adding a nostalgic edge to your dining experience. For those in the know, a hidden door inside the restaurant leads to the exclusive "Please Don't Tell" (PDT) speakeasy bar—one of New York's most talked-about secret spots, accessible through an old-school phone booth. This blend of playful ambiance and secret bar access makes Crif Dogs a unique destination for an evening out.

Convenience and Services for All

Open late into the night until 2:00 AM on weekdays and 3:00 AM on weekends, Crif Dogs caters perfectly to those late-night cravings typical in New York City. Whether you want to dine in, grab a quick takeout, or enjoy delivery at your convenience, this establishment has you covered. It's kid-friendly, making it a great stop for families exploring the East Village. Plus, with vegetarian options and a full cocktail menu, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling neighborhood gem.

Highlights at a Glance

  • Late-night dining Open until 2 AM on weekdays and 3 AM on weekends, perfect for night owls.
  • Creative hot dog menu Featuring unique toppings like bacon-wrapped sausages and avocado slices.
  • Secret speakeasy access Enter "Please Don't Tell" bar through a phone booth inside the restaurant.
  • Takeout and delivery Easy options to enjoy Crif Dogs wherever you are.

Open now - Closing 2:00 AM

Monday

12:00–02:00

Tuesday

12:00–02:00

Wednesday

12:00–02:00

Thursday

12:00–02:00

Friday

12:00–03:00

Saturday

12:00–03:00

Sunday

12:00–02:00

Refresh your Nova Landing Page to drive a significant increase in traffic to your site.