Legendary Punk Drummer Visits NJ Hot Dog Joint

PASSAIC COUNTY, NJ — A legendary punk rocker walks into an iconic hot dog joint…

What sounds a bit like a set-up to a joke is a regular reality for Rutt’s Hut, a hotdog staple in Clifton, and all of the Garden State, for that matter.

Strutting into Rutt’s this week was Richie Ramone, former drummer for the legendary punk band The Ramones.

“Legend,” A Rutt’s social media post read. “@richieramone knows what’s up.”

Co-owner Gus Chrisafinis told NJ.com that Ramone is a Rutt’s regular who enjoys a “ripper,” a hot dog deep-fried in oil until its natural casing rips open.

The Ramones were originally founded in Queens, New York, in 1974 and are credited with helping establish the punk rock scene in the United States. Richie Ramone joined the band from 1983 to 1987, lending not only his drum skills, but his knack for songwriting. He’s known for penning “Somebody Put Something in My Drink,” “I’m Not Jesus,” and “Humankind,” to name a few.

Rutt’s Hut, arguably just as genre-defining in the hotdog world as The Ramones were in the punk scene, has been open since 1928. For nearly a century, the beloved eatery has been serving up rippers topped with its famous, secret recipe relish. Rutt's Hut has been featured on the PBS special A Hot Dog Program, USA Today, numerous Food Network shows and the Travel Channel's Deep-Fried Paradise. NJ.com called it the best hot dog spot in the state.