Southport Magazine

Head on over to Yaupon Plaza for a bite of their famous dogs and much more
When you come over the old bridge and make a right onto the island, you’ll find Bob’s Dogs. Bob Kiser and his wife Susie have created an inviting, casual stop for locals and visitors alike.

Like a lot of residents of Oak Island, Bob and Susie’s venture began in stages. They built their house on Oak Island in 2006, Susie worked at the NC Baptist Assembly and Bob traveled back and forth to the Mooresville, in the lake Norman area, where the couple owned and operated a 30 year custom trophy and engraving business. Once that business sold, the Kiser’s were ready for the next venture. Relying on his business experience, Bob first thought about a hot dog cart- and the idea “just grew”. Bob’s Dogs opened in April of 2010 which makes this their sixth summer season.

Bob’s Dogs hot dogs are a top quality -all Angus beef hot dog. How they are cooked, is “a trade secret”, smiles Bob. All toppings are fresh, made in house; there are the hot dog necessities, chili and slaw; other adventurous toppings include a homemade pimento cheese with jalapenos and a flavorful tropical mango salsa.

When asked which hot dog is the most popular? Bob says, hands down-“the OKI Dog”-topped with mustard, slaw, chili and onion. Another favorite is Bob’s signature dog, “the Surf &Turf”, a hot dog with grilled shrimp, mustard, slaw and Bob’s special Cocktail sauce made with a healthy dose of horseradish. Also popular is “The Titanic”- a foot long Nathan’s hot dog on a foot long Hoagie Bun- this is a true 12” foot long- “can you sink the Titanic?” asks the staff at Bob’s- and people do happily. There is picture proof posted on Bob’s Dogs Facebook page!

Other hot dog options include the “Cheese Dog in Paradise”,” the Parrot Dog”, “the Alligator Dog” or “the Bikini Dog”- a low-fat turkey dog; fun, catchy names that follow the “Jimmy Buffet – island” theme of the establishment.

Stuffed animal parrots, gifts given to the shop thru the years, are perched throughout the restaurant. One parrot, sits atop a ship’s bell, with a sign asking customers to  “ring bell, if you like our food”- Bob says, “the kids love it!” Nautical pictures, from local artist Sandi Cash line the walls, with vintage Jimmy Buffet posters, and floating buoys salvaged by Susie from a vacation in the Florida Keys.  Bob’s Dogs has a definite beach feel. Outside seating can accommodate parties of two or larger groups. Shades block the sun and the inviting side yard has plants, potted flowers and picnic tables with grass umbrellas.

Bob’s Dogs also offers hamburgers and sandwiches. “The OKI Hamburger” and “the Yaupon Hamburger” are both 1/3 lb. burgers. The Tropical Chicken Sandwich is grilled chicken with pineapple, and the Island Chicken Salad sandwich has homemade chicken salad on a Kaiser bun.

Do you like hot dogs but without the bun? Bob serves a hot dog salad- romaine lettuce, purple cabbage, carrots, cheese, tomatoes and croutons with sliced hot dog and pineapple tidbits.
Bob’s Dogs also has something to quench the thirst or satisfy the sweet tooth. Fresh squeezed Lemonade or Orangeade, soft drink floats and ice cream cookies. A favorite are the homemade Macadamia nut cookies with key lime filling or the chocolate chip cookies with chocolate filling.

Bob’s Dogs, hamburgers and more, has been honored with a platinum Gold A Award from Trip Advisor. Bob confirms, “We work hard to please everybody, we do what we can…” And with summer crowds and July being National Hot Dog Month- Bob and crew are ready!
Bob’s Dogs is open year round, summer hours 10:30-4:30 Sunday -Wednesday and 10:30-9:00 Thursday – Saturday

8903 East Oak Island, NC 28465
910-278-3456
“See you at the Beach”
www.bobsdogsoki.com and on Facebook