New Jersey has a rich (and delicious) hot dog history. We’ve got so many great spots that have been around for decades, like Galloping Hill Inn (1925), Rutt’s Hutt (1928), and Jimmy Buff’s (1932), among many others, but only one can be the first. Texas Weiner I in Plainfield opened almost a century ago, back in 1924.

First thing's first...the Texas Weiner has nothing to do with Texas. The treat got its start in New Jersey.
Google Maps
After extensive hot dog research, it appears that the weiner originated in either Paterson or Plainfield. Both cities have a stake in the claim...a hot dog stand in Paterson (which no longer exists) or Texas Weiner I (which you can still visit today).
Mark Neurohr-Pierpaoli/Google
While no one is certain how Texas made its way into the dog's name, it's thought to be because it's covered in chili - associated with Texas at the time it was created.
Zek Miller/Google
As you can see from this map of Texas Weiner joints, they're mostly a North Jersey thing. For an unknown reason, the dog is intentionally spelled weiner, not wiener. The I and E are swapped!
Texas Wiener Map/Google
Texas Weiner I serves up some of the most delicious Texas weiners in New Jersey.
Byron Reina/Google
It has hundreds of rave reviews and customers keep coming back for more, even though it's cash only. A local favorite, it's worth heading to the ATM for. The place is clean, the staff is friendly, the service is quick, and the dogs are grilled to perfection. We also hear the spot serves up some great burgers.

Have you ever been to Texas Weiner I? If not, have you ever had a Texas weiner? We also recommend The Goffle Grill in Hawthorne. You can even buy its All The Way sauce to bring home.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Related Articles

Explore New Jersey

Featured Addresses
100 Watchung Ave, Plainfield, NJ 07060, USA