Smilin' Clyde Brings World Famous Chicago Dog To Oak Lawn Library

OAK LAWN, IL -- You don’t have to wait for summer anymore to enjoy the best Chicago hot dog in the universe. Smilin’ Clyde’s Hot Dogs has set up shop in the Oak Lawn Public Library’s cafe space. Clyde Anhalt celebrated the cafe’s grand opening in the library last week, along with 60 members from the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce, all screaming for Anhalt’s famous red hots.

Anhalt and daughter, Sarah, have been building their hot dog empire at farmers markets, community events, youth sports competitions, weddings and other occasions that no one has thought up yet. Anhalt grew up on the South Side loving pushcart Chicago hot dogs, so in 2011, he bought a weenie wagon.

"I always wanted a hot dog business called Smilin' Clyde Hot Dogs," Anhalt said. "I love steamed hot dogs and people enjoy them. People have a lot of fun with them."

The long-time Oak Lawn resident specializes in the Chicago-style dog, which he calls a “salad on a bun.” Anhalt steams Chicago’s favorite Vienna Beef weenie, serves it on a poppy seed bun, slathers it with mustard, neon green relish, tomatoes, minced onions, cucumbers and sports peppers dusted with a sprinkling of celery salt. Ketchup is available upon request, but expect some ribbing from Anhalt.

The library has been after Anhalt for years to open in the cafe after watching him hawk his hot dogs and another Chicago classic Tom Tom Tamales from his retro pushcart at the Oak Lawn Farmers Market. In addition to hot dogs, Smilin’ Clyde’s cafe offers roast beef, turkey, ham and chicken sandwiches. Soup, chilli, cookies and cupcakes round out the menu. The cafe offers library patrons a convenient spot for a snack while studying, perusing the stacks or surfing the internet.

Smilin’ Clyde employs a fleet of three pushcarts and during the summer can be found at the Oak Lawn (Tuesday) and Evergreen Park (Thursday) farmers markets. Library patrons and those hankering for a great Chicago dog can dine-in, pick up or have their meals delivered. Smiling Clyde can also cater your next party, event or work luncheon.

On Valentine’s Day, which falls on Thursday, couples can reserve a table at the cafe. Anhalt will serenade couples with Smilin’ Clyde’s new jingle.

The cafe is located inside the lower level of the Oak Lawn Public Library at 9427 Raymond Ave. Smilin’ Clyde’s is open during library hours. To order catering, delivery or carryout, call 708-741-2992.

Photos: Clyde Anhalt of Smilin' Clyde's Hot Dogs demonstrates the art of building the 'Chicago Dog.' | Patch Editor Lorraine Swanson