Hidden Gems Of Connecticut

FARMINGTON, CT — The latest installment of the Connecticut Hidden Gems series takes us to a place actually located on a busy state route, but its position at the bottom of a recessed driveway which also serves a pair of automotive businesses makes it possible to miss for those who have never been there before.

Carol's Lunchbox is located at 1365 Farmington Ave., or Route 4 in Farmington., in a small freestanding building which shares a parking lot with a Midas Muffler shop and Auto Plus Auto Parts. Owner Carol Wilusz has entertained audiences as a singer, performer and emcee throughout the state of Connecticut for many years, but she has also been involved in the restaurant industry in many capacities for over 30 years.

It's open ... amid distancing rules.

(Tim Jensen/Patch)

Her passion for food, particularly hot dogs, led to the creation of Carol's Lunchbox in May 2017. The takeout stand features locally made hot dogs, savory smoked kielbasa, plump and juicy bratwurst and spicy hot sausage, with a variety of toppings including a housemade hot pepper relish, green pickle relish, chopped onions and sauerkraut.

Wilusz said the most popular offering is a chili cheese dog. The Lunchbox was named "Best Hot Dog In the State" by Taste of Home magazine, and builder Kemper Associates was presented a HOBI Award in 2017 for "Best Tiny Commercial Building" by the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Connecticut.

Carol's Lunchbox is open March through January from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Learn more at www.carolslunchbox.net.