Here's What Makes Rhode Island-Style Hot Dogs Unique (And How They're Not Just A Coney Island Copycat) - Tasting Table

"Rhode Island-style wieners may look like another take on a chili-topped dog, but their story is a lot more layered than that. While they began as a loose nod to Coney Island dogs, Rhode Island's version took on an identity shaped by immigrant hands, local tastes, and a very specific spice profile that sets them apart. Known locally as New York System wieners - a name borrowed more for marketing than geography - the style quickly became an Ocean State staple."

"Rhode Island wieners are smaller than standard hot dogs and often contain a pork and beef blend. The signature meat sauce isn't chili at all; it's a finely textured, crumble-like mixture seasoned with cumin, allspice, paprika, cinnamon, and Worcestershire. Add mustard, raw onion, and a final dusting of celery salt, and you get the state's unmistakable "all the way" order."

"Walk into Olneyville New York System and you'll see locals ordering coffee milk alongside their dogs. There's a "Cheers"-style vibe where everybody knows your name, and the place moves fast - they reportedly go through up to 180 pounds of wieners a day. While legacy spots like Baba's Original New York System, have recently closed, the tradition continues in long-standing counters that still sling that same spiced meat and classic finish."

Rhode Island New York System wieners originated as a loose nod to Coney Island dogs and evolved through immigrant influences and local tastes into a distinct regional specialty. The wieners are smaller than standard hot dogs and often use a pork-and-beef blend. The signature topping is not chili but a finely textured, crumble-like meat sauce seasoned with cumin, allspice, paprika, cinnamon, and Worcestershire. Typical finishing touches include mustard, raw onion, and a dusting of celery salt for the "all the way" order. Community-oriented counters like Olneyville New York System serve the dogs alongside local staples like coffee milk, and longstanding vendors maintain the tradition despite some closures.

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