Forrest's Sidestreet Cafe, On Putnam Border, Strives For DVlicious Win

PAWLING, N.Y.- The classic hot dog, in all its bronzed, charred perfection, holds a special place in the hearts – and stomachs -- of most Americans, especially come summer. July, in fact, is National Hot Dog Month, thanks to the designation by the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council.

Ken and Lynne Forrest are in their 26th year with Forrest's Sidestreet Cafe, located on the Putnam/Dutchess border.
Photo Credit: *Skip Pearlman*

A happy customer with two dogs from Forrest's Sidestreet Cafe.
Photo Credit: *Skip Pearlman*

A happy customer gets lunch at Forrest's Sidestreet Cafe.
Photo Credit: *Skip Pearlman*

Forrest's Sidestreet Cafe is located on a side street off Route 22.
Photo Credit: *Skip Pearlman*

Daily Voice

07/21/2016 6:00 a.m.

Poll

Final Results Voting Closed

Who Has Putnam's Best Hot Dogs?

Forrest Sidestreet Cafe, On Putnam Border
85%
Red Rooster, Brewster
15%

So where’s the best place to slather on the toppings and indulge in the perfect weiner? Daily Voice readers picked two nominees for our DVlicious “Best in Putnam County,” contest, each of which is being profiled this week.

Read below for what makes each nominee a “top dog,” then let your fingers do the clicking. Keep in mind you can vote multiple times, albeit once per day. Voting ends 4 p.m. Thursday, July 28.

Forrest Sidestreet Cafe, 6 NY-22, Pawling, (845) 878-6571

Frank Talk: Yes, it's on the Putnam/Dutchess border, on a side street (hence the name) off Route 22, but Daily Voice readers in Putnam nominated Forrest's - most telling us it was in Patterson (it's just past, officially in Pawling). The quaint cafe is owned by Ken and Lynne Forrest, who have run it for 26 years.

The couple credit the popularity of their hot dogs to using Sabrett franks. "We use Sabrett hot dogs, with natural casings, which is what everyone wants," said Ken. "That gives them that snap. They're not mushy like regular hot dogs." Most popular toppings: homemade chili, cooked sweet onions, sauerkraut, onions, relish.

Top This: More than just about food, the Forrest's want to be known for being good hosts. "We want people to have a nice experience," said Ken.

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