Chili

OK, first of all we understand that WV Hot Dog chili isn't chili. It is a chili-like substance that includes ground beef, chili powder, and something to give it a reddish-brown hue (usually a tomato product).

Chili can make a big difference in the character of the dog. Chris's chili has a distinctive slow-burn that makes it a favorite of fans of spicy hot dogs. Romeo's has a much tamer chili and I once took a Chris's fan there and he left his dog half-eaten in protest. Some of the best chili I have tasted comes from church-run hot dog sale fundraisers. Church chili is typically much meatier and served in larger quanity.

So all you chili-centric hot dog fans, chime in on your favorite hot-dog joints in the Charleston area.