JACKSON, MI – Jackson has changed over the years, but one thing that’s remained the same are the Coney dogs at Jackson Coney Island.
According to Jackson history, Jackson Coney Island began in 1914 under the guidance of the city’s legendary Coney godfather George Todoroff at 615 E. Michigan Ave.
Related: Peek Through Time: 100 years of humble hot dogs covered in chili marks Jackson Coney Island history
The restaurant has been under many different owners since then, with current owner Dave Griffus taking over in 2014, Manager Brittany Craig said. Through the years and different owners, though, the atmosphere, style and recipes have stayed the same, she said.
“It makes us feel good that we can keep that same tradition going and people can come in here and still get that,” Craig said. “I had a guy come in about a month and a half ago and he’s like, ‘I haven’t been here in 40 some years, I hope they taste the same.’ And they still taste the same.”
Since its opening, the restaurant has been home to thousands of stories and memories, including birthdays, engagements and family gatherings, she said.
“People came here with their grandparents, so they continue to come here,” Craig said. “It’s just so many memories – and some people have certain booths like they’ll wait to sit in because it’s just always their booth.”
Jackson Coney Island still uses the original recipe for its Coney dog sauce, including using beef heart, because “anything else is just a chili dog,” Craig said.
While the Coney dog steals the show at the restaurant, the rest of the menu should not be overlooked. A variety of hotdogs, sandwiches, soups, wraps, salads and burgers can be found on the menu, along with some breakfast options, like biscuits and gravy and corned beef hash.
The ‘Ridiculously Good Italian’ grinder also lives up to its name, Craig said. It’s stacked with salami, pepperoni, ham, banana peppers, red onion, lettuce, tomato, Italian dressing and provolone cheese.
Jackson Coney Island is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
More information can be found on Jackson Coney Island’s website and Facebook page.
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