But the new sign is really for Ben’s Next Door. I like it – I have a picture of the other side for Next Door on my blog, by the way. Of course, Ben’s sign rocks and shouldn’t be messed with, but this one is for Next Door and I think, fresh as well.

I’m craving a fat 1/4 lbs chicken dog now…sigh….

I was there to watch the Steelers game on Sunday. Overall, it’s a nice addition to the neighborhood. Of course it was pretty crowded in there, but the bartenders were quick and attentive…I didn’t have to wait too long to get a drink. The bartenders work double duty by serving up Ben’s signature hot dogs and chili, which you get quickly because they are basically cooking on a little hot dog cooker right on top of the bar. I didn’t get to see a menu, so I don’t know what type of other food they offer. There are plenty of TVs there, so it’s a great place to catch a game. Again…nice addition to the ‘hood, but nothing amazing.

I don’t really like the new sign, plus I thought the place was called “next door” with no obvious reference to Ben’s, and the sign makes it seem like it is called “Ben’s next door.” Minor nit, I guess. But I went to next door a week ago before they started serving the full menu, and I love the long bar. They were serving up the chili half smokes, but they were being cooked on one of those 7-11/movie theater rotating grills, and they didn’t look as good as the blackened and greasy ones served at Ben’s. Rock was walking around, shaking hands, and he was very nice.

I went to BND at 7PM on Tuesday. Despite the fact that two film crews were there, and that the line for the Chili Bowl was all the way up the alley, my friend and I walked in and got a seat at the bar right away. I got a half smoke and a Guinness, and I was THRILLED! The bartenders were very attentive and the bar had a great vibe. I love this place.