KRISTEN ENGLERT
Staff Writer
Hebrew National, Ballpark and Oscar Mayer are all brands of hot dogs that have gone down in history as one delicious dog. Topped with mustard, ketchup, relish and sometimes chili, hot dogs are known for being America’s food. Just when hot dogs were only thought as food for sports enthusiasts, Beverly Hills threw a curve ball.
In comes Marty and Sandy Davidson. Marty was originally a filmmaker and Sandy an interior designer from New York who craved a good hot dog in Los Angeles. They decided Beverly Hills needed a low-key spot where the dogs were top notch and the service impeccable. The Davidsons created Marty D’s, formally known as the Zen Zoo Tea.
Located just off Wilshire, Marty D’s has a quaint little soda-shop atmosphere complete with booths and a 1950’s-inspired counter perfect for chocolate shakes and root beer floats. Each customer is instantaneously transported into Pleasantville’s comfortable simplicity.
After being greeted by a young host, take a seat at the counter or slide into a red two-top table and head off into hot dog bliss. The menu is small, but packed full of delicious options perfect for anyone. Complete with Coney Island fries, potato knish, corn-on-the-cob and an all-vegetarian chili, the menu is sure to satisfy any craving.
They are known for their “Marty D’s Deluxe All-Beef Hot Dog – Thick, Juicy and Kosher.” It comes complete with all the toppings, including a kosher dill pickle forming the perfect meal. No matter the choice, each is delicious and will satisfy any dog-like craving that one might acquire.
The buns are homemade from a recipe that Marty helped to perfect. Take a sip of their homemade strawberry lemonade or orange soda to wash it down.
Along with their extensive hot dog selection is a delectable list of desserts. With more than 12 desserts to choose from, “The Works” is their legendary selection. It starts with eight scoops of a favorite ice cream before every homemade topping imaginary is tossed on top and crowned with a cherry. Each bite delivers a small taste of perfection and gently slips any eater into a dessert coma. Along with the other goodies available, the cookies and cakes are all freshly baked and are sure to deliver a sugar high.
Marty D’s is one to remember. With a great location, amazing food, attentive staff and good company, Marty’s is sure to become a local hot spot.
Marty says there is a motto he applies to every dog made in his restaurant – how do you spot the real thing? “If it ain’t 8 inches … it ain’t Marty D’s.”
04-03-2008
