Friday, February 20, 2015

Voss' Bar-B-Q – Utica, New York

If you travel through Utica and you don't eat at Voss' Bar-B-Q, you're missing out on a treat. We stayed in Utica in the summer of 2014 and of course, one of our stops was this outstanding food stand that offers exceptional hot dogs, bar-b-q, ice cream and more.

This little place that is only open part of the year (they close in winter) has been a fixture on Oriskany Boulevard for more than 70 years. My parents ate there as kids and teenagers growing up in Utica, and over the years I heard them speak of the incredible and memorable Voss' hot dog.

Mom and Dad aren't the type to speak reverently of food, especially something as simple as a hot dog, so I knew there must be something to this. What I discovered when I finally had the chance to try it, is there is no such thing as 'simple' when describing a Voss' hot dog.

Family owned, and family run, Voss' Bar-B-Q is a one of a kind place – an institution in Upstate New York. It is fast food, however, it's far better than typical fast food offerings. Voss' has a history, a style, and a well-deserved reputation for serving simple, yet great food. They offer many menu items, and several variations of hot dog meals, but all I wanted was the classic Voss' hot dog on a bun grilled with butter, and the fries.

Voss' is a unique oasis in a busy world. You stand in line at the window and watch smiling people pick up their orders and hurry off as though they can't wait to bite into their food. You may laugh at that, but by the time you reach the window, with the fabulous aromas emanating from within, you can't wait to dig in.

I sat with my family at a picnic table on a pleasant summer evening, as traffic rushed past on Oriskany Boulevard a few yards away, and enjoyed the best hot dog on the planet. The fries were very good too - basic, simple food, but this Utica landmark does it better than everyone else.

A Voss' hot dog is a taste experience that will leave you wanting more. A trip anywhere near Utica, New York is not complete without a stop to relax and eat at Voss' Bar-B-Q on Oriskany Boulevard in Yorkville.

Voss' Bar-B-Q Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato 

Larry Manch is an author, teacher, guitar player, freelance writer, and columnist. His books include: 'Twisted Logic: 50 Edgy Flash Fiction Stories', 'The Toughest Hundred Dollars & Other Rock & Roll Stories', 'A Sports Junkie', 'The Avery Appointment', 'Between the Fuzzy Parts'. His books are available in paperback and e-book.

He also writes about sports for Season Tickets, food and travel on Miles & Meals, and music/guitars on The Backbeat.

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