A Taste of New York

At A Glance:
Who: Willy McKnight
What: New York Style Sabrett Hot Dog Stand
Why: Bringing a traditional New York hot dog stand to the streets of Corvallis
Where: Outside of Madison Plaza on the corner of 4th and Madison, downtown Corvallis
When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. every Tuesday-Saturday

What better person and place to get a hot dog from than a true New Yorker selling hot dogs in a street stand identical to what you would see in the big city. “If you want a little taste of New York you can find it in downtown Corvallis between Starbucks and Noahs Bagels every Tuesday through Saturday,” said owner Willy McKnight. From 11ish in the morning to 5pm you can receive your very own tasty New York style Sabrett hot dog at Willy's Hot Dog Stand near the corner of 4th and Madison.

With 35 years of cooking experience and no place to work, McKnight decided to open a business of his own. “I found my self unemployed last May,” McKnight said, “At age 50 I had a hard time competing with 19 or 20-something-year-olds going to school.” Thinking the people of Corvallis could use a good hot dog, he decided to do something about the now common situation of un-employment, and introduce the New York delicacy to Corvallis.

The large metal stand in front of the Madison Plaza is, "exactly what you'd find all over the streets of New York," said McKnight. At Willy’s Hot Dog Stand, you can find a traditional, and gluten-free, Sabrett hot dog with ketchup and/or mustard for just $3, along with an assortment of delicious toppings to spice up your dog for an additional .25 cents.

“The sweet pickled relish was delicious,” said customer Rebbecca Rathsack. Along with the relish are toppings like chili, and home-made barbecue onion made by McKnight himself. "I thought they were really good because you get more dog than bun," Rathsack said.

"It felt authentic," said Kyle Polensky, "but don’t ask me what authentic tastes like. I really liked it."

If you are in the mood for something sweet, Willy’s has something for you too. He is now making home-made simple sweet crepes. Gluten-free, and dairy-free (without the butter or whipped cream), these crepes with preserve are an excellent sweet treat for anytime of the day.

Also being sold at Willy's Hot Dog Stand are chips for .75 cents, cans of soda for .75 cents, and frozen candy bars for $1.

“I feel like I'm right on track," said McKnight on the progress of the newly opened stand, "So far I’ve had great reception from the good people of Corvallis." Receiving lots of support from friends and landlord Hugh White, as well as recognition from people walking by, McKnight has had a great start to his new business.