Reader Submitted Review By Dave J., Bayville
There’s something about an old-school diner that just pulls me in — maybe it’s the promise of comfort food, the nostalgia of neon signs, or just the smell of bacon wafting out the door. So when I finally stopped by Dicky’s Dogs in South Toms River, I wasn’t expecting anything more than a decent hot dog. What I got instead was one of those rare finds that I can’t stop thinking about — a humble little spot that delivers way more than the name suggests.
Breakfast Surprises and All-Day Cravings
I pulled up to Dicky’s around 11 a.m. on a quiet weekday morning, half-hoping I’d beat the rush and fully expecting a no-frills dog-and-fry kind of meal. From the outside, the place feels classic Americana — unassuming, but in a way that says, “You’re about to eat well.” Inside, it’s a retro diner dream: spotless, vibrant, and full of bright reds, checkered details, and chrome accents. I felt like I stepped back into the 1950s, only with Wi-Fi and breakfast burritos.
I started off simple — two scrambled eggs with bacon and potatoes, and because I was feeling slightly health-conscious (emphasis on “slightly”), I ordered a mango smoothie on the side. The food came out fast and piping hot, and everything on the plate was cooked perfectly. The smoothie? Honestly fantastic. Cold, fresh, and tropical enough to make me forget I was eating breakfast on Route 166 in New Jersey.
It wasn’t long before I realized that Dicky’s isn’t bound by the usual time slots. Their entire menu is available all day, which means you can grab an omelet for dinner or a hot dog for breakfast — no questions asked. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
The Hot Dog Revelation
Of course, with a name like Dicky’s Dogs, I had to come back and do justice to the dogs. I ordered the Italian Hot Dog — and I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s a must. It’s wrapped in a homemade pizza dough roll (yes, pizza dough!), grilled to a golden crisp, and stuffed with savory peppers and onions. The dog itself had that satisfying snap and a juicy bite, and while the roll did start to soften under all that goodness, I didn’t mind. I would eat this with a fork and knife if necessary. It’s indulgent in the best way.
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The chili dog was no slouch either. Foot-long, drenched in mild beef chili, and tucked into a decent roll — the kind that absorbs just enough sauce without falling apart. Some reviewers have noted occasional bun issues, but mine held up fine. If you like your dogs hearty and flavorful, this one delivers.
They also serve up empanadas, burgers, a Cuban sandwich, and even a Colombian burger — and the variety doesn’t feel like an afterthought. It’s clear that whoever’s running the kitchen here cares about flavor and giving customers choices.
A Place That Feels Like Home
Service at Dicky’s is everything you’d hope for in a small-town gem. Each time I visited, I was greeted with a warm smile — sometimes even by the owner himself, who seems to have a genuine connection with the locals. One afternoon, he brought out empanadas on the house just because he thought I’d like them (spoiler: I did).
The vibe inside is clean and relaxed, with plenty of seating and space to spread out. There’s something oddly comforting about eating somewhere that’s not trying too hard — just good food, good people, and no pretension. The only hiccup I’ve experienced was arriving too close to closing time. While Dicky’s is officially open until 6 p.m., they sometimes wrap things up early if it’s quiet, so it’s best to come during peak lunch or mid-afternoon hours.
Final Thoughts
Dicky’s Dogs is one of those places that doesn’t need to scream for attention — it quietly earns your loyalty with every visit. Whether you’re craving breakfast at lunchtime, a chili dog after a long day, or just a smoothie and some friendly conversation, this little Toms River spot has your back.
Key Points to Know:
- The full menu is available all day, from breakfast classics to loaded hot dogs.
- The Italian Hot Dog, wrapped in homemade pizza dough, is a must-try.
- Expect friendly, attentive service in a clean, retro-inspired space.
- Arrive well before 6 p.m., as they occasionally close early.
- It’s not just about dogs — empanadas, omelets, and sandwiches round out a surprisingly diverse menu.
If you’re anywhere near Beachwood or Toms River, make the stop. Dicky’s isn’t just a place to grab a quick bite — it’s a place to fall in love with comfort food all over again.
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