The gentle art of being a true hot dog connoisseur may be about to get more dicey - especially after you see this little hole in the wall restaurant located in the crossroads of practically nowhere in the Upstate. If you can honestly say you've never traveled such distances JUST for a hot dog, then you may not be able to say that for much longer.
That's because real foodies know it's not JUST about the food... it's also about the experience.
And at Pat's Cash & Carry located just south of Salem on Hwy 130, the experience is worth whatever distance you'll have to travel to partake. The building alone is gawk-worthy with its weathered exterior and original bead board walls and ceilings that are the better part of a century old.
Sure, you'll love the eating part too. Who wouldn't? Pat's has the most heavenly hot dogs around. One bite will convince you of that.
You probably won't be able to order just one. And it may be hard to decide what toppings to choose. Whether smothered in their signature sauce...
or all the way with the Works Dog that includes mayo, mustard, ketchup, cheese, chili, onions, slaw, and pickle relish, you're sure to agree these bun creations are a mouthwatering delight.
If someone in your party isn't into hot dogs (unlikely, but...) they can order up a Bird Dog. Pat's signature chicken finger dog comes with the works - or whatever you want on it.
Or you can simply order up a signature sub. It's a six-inch wheat sub roll with pulled pork, sliced cheese, slaw, lettuce, tomato, onion, jalapeño, pickles, mayo and mustard. Wow. Get a dozen to go and freeze them when you get home! You'll be able to satisfy your Pat's craving for months.
So, how far would you drive for the ultimate foodie back road experience and the most heavenly hot dog in South Carolina?
Pat's Cash & Carry is located at 410 Stamp Creek Rd., Salem, SC 29676. They're open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
While you're in Salem, head over to see South Carolina's own Grand Canyon. Amazing!
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