I write this from a very sad, nostalgic place in my heart. You see, encased meats are a bit of a national pastime for this expat. Alas, I am still yet to fulfill that yearning for a taste of home. When I heard of Dognation's opening I was thrilled. Tiny, obscure Melb charm serving an American menu? Glory be!
Sadly, my radar was a bit off on that one. Let me be clear: DogNation is not American, nor do they serve anything that could be called such by any stretch of the imagination. Preconceptions aside, DogNation serves sausages with a global twist. You can get a Mexican dog smothered in chili con carne, an Aussie dog complete with beetroot relish, an English dog with peas and mash.... While I very much appreciate the concept, the delivery just isn't there.
I have tried so hard to like this place, but it's really just. not. good.
The dogs are HUGE, messy, and rather flavorless. To hide this, they are quite literally dripping with toppings. I'd recommend you take a seat to attempt eating these monsters, but with a grand total of two chairs to DogNation's name it's not likely you'll be able to.
I wanted to love you, DogNation, but your dogs just aren't doing it. read more