365 Places to Eat

Ketchy’s II is comfort in a little shop. It’s a food truck in a store front. Ketchy’s reminds me of coming off the beach in Hawaii and walking across the beach to get some chili and rice.

If you’re looking for gourmet, look elsewhere. If you want a satisfying lunch or snack with a taco, hot dog, chili or fries, this is what you’re looking for.

The Ketchy’s taco is unique and polarizing. You will love it or hate it. It’s simple. A thin hamburger patty, on the griddle, put onto a tortilla, topped with lettuce, tomato and hot sauce, folded in half and kissed on the griddle again.

Ketchy's Taco

At $2, it’s a junky deal. Then there are the hot dogs. Cooked to order on the griddle split in half and then topped with your choice of goodies. They are greasy and delicious. I like a juicy dog and it’s fun to have them topped for you.

Ketchy's Hot Dog

Adding to the casual atmosphere is the friendly service, very Hawaiian style and personable. There are no indoor tables, heck there is barely enough room to fit two people at the counter where you order. There are a couple of tables outside and a heater if it’s cold.

Hours are only 9am to 6pm, which is a bit limited. This should be late night food. Parking in the lot is free.

Ketchy’s II
11270 La Grange Ave,
Los Angeles CA 90025

You have seen Hot Dog on a Stick at the mall. Big goofy hats and (usually) a girl making the lemonade by hand. Did you know that Hot Dog on a Stick started here in Santa Monica and that the original stand is still there?

I love that the stand just says “Hot Dog Stick”

Original Hot Dog on a Stick

Hot Dog on a Stick has veggie dogs and cheese sticks, but come on. You go to Hot Dog on a Stick for a corn dog. And a lemonade.

Every dog is made to order and the lemonade is made fresh every two hours. Plus, the lemons are sourced locally from Ventura, so go locavores.

It’s easy to dismiss a corn dog as fast food, but done right, it can be a delicious treat. Most people probably don’t realize that the Hot Dog on a Stick is actually a turkey dog, not pork or beef. The cooked to order dog comes out crispy on the outside, with soft hot corn breading and a steaming hot middle.

Another small, but nice touch is that the stick is sturdy and round, not just a flat Popsicle stick. This ensures that your dog is supported and it just feels good in your hand.

On days like today, when the weather is unbelievable and the sun is out, hit up the original Hot Dog on a Stick. Grab a corndog and a lemonade and go watch the gymnasts right across the boardwalk.

Hot Dog on a Stick (original)
1633 Ocean Front Walk
Santa Monica, CA 90401