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Business & Tech

There's a New Deputy in Town as Deputy Dogs Coney Takes Over Former Clawson Hot Dog Location

The hot dog and chicken joint is proud to call 14 Mile Road its new home.

When you hear the words "deputy dog", perhaps the old cartoon Deputy Dawg comes to mind. Or maybe even the old Deputy Dogs eatery in nearby Rochester.

But, in Clawson, there's a new deputy setting up shop in this town.

Meet Deputy Dogs Coney, a chicken and hot dog one-of-a-kind joint, proud to call 14 Mile Road its new home.

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You might recognize the outside of the building, as it housed Big City Dogs in the summer of 2011. Big City Dogs eventually went out of business, re-opening as Jerry's Famous Dogs just down the street. It too would reach the same fate only a few months later.

However, Deputy Dogs manager and Clawson resident Bert Gorman, whose business is not affiliated with the two locations mentioned above, says he couldn't be happier with the steady stream of traffic he's received so far since opening Nov. 7. Citing lunch as the busiest time, Gorman says he sees customers standing in long lines for a meal.

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Gorman along with owner Debbie Klein-Gorman are no strangers to the food business. The two are in charge of Krispy Krunchy Chicken, a fast-food chain restaurant, over in Royal Oak on 13 Mile and Coolidge.

Deputy Dogs is associated with Krispy Krunchy Chicken, serving up the same Cajun chicken recipe, buffalo wings and honey butter biscuits. In fact, Deputy Dogs marks Krispy Krunchy Chicken's 1,000th location. Gorman notes that depending on the success of the Clawson business, the two eventually plan to open a third location.

"We feel that the community supports local merchants and we just love being here," said Gorman, who says Deputy Dogs has greatly exceeded his expectations so far.

Gorman adds that low menu prices, including eight hot dogs ranging from $1.89-$2.79, are what keep his customers coming back for more. There's even a hot dog called "The Clawson Special" made up of spiced ground beef covering a Coney dog, topped with chili, mustard and onions all piled high on a steamed bun. 

On Wednesdays, original Coneys are just 99 cents all day.

"The chili is good, the hot dogs are good; I like that you can add what you want without being charged extra," said Ed Hopper, a Royal Oak resident and frequent customer. "I can go to Coney Island if I want to, but I don't because I like the atmosphere, services and prices here, plus they're friendly."

Gorman notes that buying local is what the restaurant prides itself on, using only Koegel Hot Dogs from Flint, Milton Chili from Madison Heights and buns from Browns Buns Bakery in Detroit.

Deputy Dogs eventually hopes to put a patio outside in the spring and summer, and will extend its hours. Gorman also assures that there's plenty of parking for those wanting to make a pit stop for a quick bite as they pass by.

"This is one of the most traveled roads in the state of Michigan," said Gorman. "Stop in - we have the best of both worlds here.”

Deputy Dogs Coney is located at 139 W. 14 Mile Road and is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 7 p.m. For more information, call 248-435-8166. 

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