FOOD: Galloping Hill Grill [Union, NJ]

There are two types of people in this world: those who don’t enjoy hot dogs, and those who do. I am the latter—and places like Galloping Hill Grill in Union are part of the reason why. Formerly known as Peterson’s (and still referred to as such by many long-time residents), this low-key, no frills grill serves up the usual suspects (burgers and hot dogs) with the addition of a nice selection of wraps, sandwiches, and salads, making this spot a good fit for anyone with sensible taste buds.

When you dine at Galloping Hill, you have a few options of how you want to experience it. The outdoor area is dotted with tables and bar stools that line the shiny silver exterior. During the winter months you must head indoors but still have the option of ordering from the counter and grabbing your own table, or pushing through the swinging door to a dining room that has a wait staff. No matter where you opt to sit, you can always count on fast service, low prices, and big, bucket-sized beers.

I’m admittedly predictable when it comes to my selection at Galloping Hill—chili cheese dog. Tucked inside one of the biggest hot dog buns I’ve ever seen is a plump hot dog smothered in flavorful chili and cheese sauce. However, you can order up your hot dog just about any way you like it—barbecued onions, sauerkraut, relish, ketchup and mustard, or get all of that on one—the decision is yours. A side of their crispy waffle fries is highly recommended for accompanying any hot dog selection.

[caption id="attachment_76879" align="alignnone" width="337"] From Left to Right: Barbecued Onions and Chili Cheese[/caption]

Going a step beyond their awesome dogs you have countless options, such as a buffalo wings or mozzarella sticks, gyros, and other sandwiches. For those who have been cringing at my processed food binge thus far, Galloping Hill is even capable of indulging those who seek healthy options by offering several salad and wrap options as well. And to top it all off, Galloping Hill has beers on tap—Yuengling, Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors Light, and Killian's Red. You can get a 12 oz., 16 oz., or 24 oz. Yes, that’s right—24 ounces of beer in a cup that requires both of my hands to lift it off the table. But I suppose it’s worth the labor.

[caption id="attachment_76880" align="alignnone" width="406"] 24 ounce vs. 16 ounce[/caption]

Galloping Hill has become one of my favorite stops to breeze through for exactly that reason: I can breeze right through. Even when you sit in the dining room, you can be in and out of Galloping Hill in under a half hour. However, don’t let that lead you to believe it’s a place that isn’t meant for chilling out. One of my favorite things to do is enjoy a warm summer day having lunch outside with a bucket sized beer and my chili cheese dog while lingering in the sunshine. But lack of warm weather isn’t enough to keep me away—and it’s safe to say that no matter where I live in this great Garden State, I will find always find my way back to Galloping Hill Grill for a hot dog and some heavy (beer) lifting.

Galloping Hill Grill
325 Chestnut Street
Union, NJ 07083