Johnny's, well it's a Jamestown staple. If you are from here and moved away - you always visit Johnny's when you come back. It's a thing. When you walk into Johnny's you kinda feel like you've been transported back to the good ole days when you were a kid. It's the same. It's comfort. You walk in, they take your order at the counter, you pay at the register (cash only but ATM on site), you give them your name and go find a table. Once your name is called you head back up to the counter to grab your food. It's just a cool, back in the day vibe. Your order comes on a standard red tray. Which is an added touch I just love. The owners are the same family owners since the beginning and I LOVE THAT! I love the food but I could not eat it everyday. Well, then again, maybe I could. I always order 1 with E. Which is one texas hot with everything. I add the texas fries to my order and I'm a happy girl. You CAN NOT do JAMESTOWN or LUCY'S HOMETOWN (her childhood home is down the street) without a visit to the Famous Johnny's Lunch! read more

See all

A local icon, Jonny's was a staple of my childhood (as it is for many). I'm biased having grown up with the best, but I've never had another hot dog as good as the ones served up at Johnnys. I have so many fond memories of meals in the classic diner - hot dogs, burgers, root beer floats, milkshakes and fries - everything on the menu just hits and is so comforting. Despite busy lunch rushes, the staff at always greet you with a smile and work quickly to deliver your order. There is a reason this small family run restaurant has thrived for decades and it is a must stop for everyone visiting Lakewood. read more

The food was great! Service was prompt & courteous. I love the decore, the dining area was very clean & so nice! read more

See all

What's not to love? A few of the same people are still here since I was a kid..decades. 3 dogs with E is the foundation..Fries, shakes are good but not necessary, like the hots. (I am a vegetarian and Johnny's is one of very few meat meals I will do!) If you sit in a booth you are within the original footprint of the Fairmont Ave building. So, this means I sat there with my grandparents, and I like that! read more

Johnny's Lunch - Hots, Hi-C and fries! - Burgers Near Me - Jamestown, New York

Great experience here. Excellent food, excellent customer service, plenty of parking and the people who prepared my food paid attention to what I ordered so I received what I asked for on my food, etc. No surprises when I got home. Highly recommend this place. read more

Add this to your list of myst visit during your trip to Lakewood. Johnny's is a local favorite famous for its sauce that is added to both burgers and hot dogs as topping. Its a unique flavoring sauce that can also be purchase separately. The burgers and hotdogs are VERY tender which pretty much melts within seconds of touching your lips. You will NOT find this style of burgers anywhere but here in Lakewood. Of course you style your burger how you like just be ready to eat multiples due to the small size and deliciousness of your meal. Everyone knows everyone here and I love that feeling, super friendly staff and awesome quick service and meals very nice to the pocket. Just remember like many other places in the Lakewood area, Johnny only accepts CASH! Enjoy Now we can check this off our Lakewood list read more

Its a local favorite endorsed by Randy Johnson from when he played on our baseball team when it used to be a Single-A minor league affiliate to the Montreal Expos. Texas hora with everything is the go to! A lot of out of town visitors say they aren't fans so keep that in mind. The atmosphere is very diner-y without being a diner. The shakes are also fantastic! I highly recommend you give them a shot! read more

A classic! I grew up going to the drive-in in Jamestown with a box of Johnny's hot dogs and fries. The hot dogs are probably the absolutely lowest grade possible, but you know what, they are delicious. As a kid I wasn't a big fan of the "sauce", but as an adult, I don't mind it...especially on my burger. The prices are still extremely reasonable (i.e., 3.50 for 3 hot dogs) and they have combos and family packs for those with bigger appetites. The interior transports you back in time and the folks who work the counter are always hustling. Come in for trip back in time (and a damn good hot dog!). read more

See all

Super welcoming family that's been there forever. Classic hot dogs, good fries, and amazing rice pudding. When I was a kid and my parents went to jamestown for anything my bro and I begged for their rice pudding and loganberry juice. Tonight I had their rice pudding again. OMG! Still just as good as I remembered! Cash only and weak vinegar are my only complaints. I'm happy I tried it again before I start my strict diet. read more

See all

One of the first things I do before going on a trip is poke around to see what restaurants are worth checking out, and Johnny's Lunch kept popping up in my searches ahead of a recent trip to the Chautauqua Lake area. I was intrigued by this place from the start, but even moreso when I found out there's a debate over whose sauce is boss: Johnny's Lunch or AJ Texas Hots. As someone who grew up on a steady diet of the Pittsburgh suburb-based Jim's Drive In (here on Yelp as Jim's Famous Sauce), known for their secret sauce and amazing dogs, I naturally had to try both of Chautauqua Lake's hottest hot dog destinations. Johnny's Lunch evokes the classic diner feel and boasts a clean, spacious dining area. The menu is extensive but straightforward (I can order HOW MANY hot dogs at once?!) and the woman at the counter that took our order was nothing short of awesome. She was charming, witty, and no-nonsense. I placed the order and gave my name, but when our order was ready and my SO walked up to the counter to retrieve it, she exclaimed "you don't look like a Christy!" Audible LOL from yours truly. Alas, she handed over the goods and we were on our way to flavortown with an order of fries and three dogs with cheese and sauce, just how I get them at the local place. They. were. excellent. The hot dogs didn't have that "snap" that everyone always talks about with a "good" hot dog, but trust me when I tell you that these were still damn good. The sauce had a nice peppery kick to it, the buns were soft (steamed, maybe?), the cheese was melted nicely, and I ate 1.5 hot dogs fast enough to make Joey Chestnut blush. The fries were hot, crisp yet soft on the inside... and the ketchup on top of this tasty lunch? The meal and two drinks ran us a mere $10. My verdict? Johnny's takes the W. read more

Johnny's Lunch - Burgers Near Me - Jamestown, New York

The food is always amazing for what they serve!!!! I m personally not a fan of wearing masks but was asked to put it on, but after I mentioned the employees didn't wear them everything changed... ( yes they had them on their necks just not on their faces) Yes I have an accent since. was born in Poland) the owner was making fun of me & my family entire visit!!!! never felt so uncomfortable eating dinner!!!!! This is absolutely unacceptable!!!!! I am a nurse who graduated with honors in US & currently have lived in Fl for 20+ years and would never treat anyone that way!!!!! So yes I know I might be only one customer who writes that & oh well !!!! but I have always drove out of my way to eat at John's!!!! this will be my last time for me and my family who lives in PA & Jamestown NY read more

Johnny's is a local institution and the best place ever to get a hot dog. I've been a patron of Johnny's for over half a century, since the days when it was located in downtown Jamestown. Eek! I shudder to think I am that old but my longevity has afforded me the opportunity to indulge in many delightful hot dog dinning experiences over the years; especially at Johnny's. It's the only place I know of where the rolls are fresh steamed, the hot dog tenderized and then served with the most delicious Texas style meat sauce to be found on this planet. Of course they also serve burgers, fries and other things, but the place is still all about hot dogs. For what it is, a hot dog place, Johnny's is number one. read more

I always go here when I'm in town. Best hot dogs in WNY. Taste great and very reasonable pricing.

So you've given up. Health is not a concern at all. Those New Years resolutions have evaporated as completely as the memories of the sun and fun on Lake Chaitauqua last summer. Hit Johnnys!!! It is sooooo decadently delicious you'll feel like you're an international drug runner sleeping with the bosses wife. Sure, you're going to die but, hey, it's so good.... Why not go out with a little chili sauce on the top. Of your nose and too much onion on your breath from the incomparable Texas Fries. To wash down those awesome dogs and burgs be sure to grab a loganberry shake....... for later. You'll thank me read more

Best Chili Dogs- dare say in all of NY!!! I have not been back to NY since 2019 but I constantly think about how delicious these dogs were!!!! If you want to try some of the best hot dogs- come here!!! You will not be disappointed :) read more

This place has been in business since I was a baby (I'm 63). It remains a local favorite because it is a family-owned fast-food place that believes in giving good service & good food at a great price. I go there regularly to get 3 Johnny's all the way (mustard, onions, and Johnny's secret sauce). I used to get 9 at a time and inhale them when I was younger! You have to go here at least once to experience the old style diner vibe and enjoy the owners & the food. read more

What's not to love about Johnny's. Great dogs, fries and shakes. Great people too. Takes me two hours to get there but the trip is worth the drive. read more

This is a really cool spot! Visited from out of town and was recommended to try here. Every town has a place like this - good, inexpensive food with a persistent home style feeling inside the restaurant. The homemade sauce they offer on their burgers is a like a spicy gravy which I quite enjoyed. Even during a lunch rush their service was quick and friendly! Would definitely come here again if I was ever back in Jamestown! read more

Johnny Carson and Johnny Depp own this place together, which is a real shame because you'd think they'd do a better job with it. The food really didn't do it for me. The burger was bland, the hot dog was okay... I think because I was stressed out about my car. Prices are even a tiny bit higher than they should be. Add to that the fact that my car broke down in the parking lot and it was an altogether bad memory. They weren't too happy about me being stuck in the lot for awhile, either. Ah well. I'll go back and give it another try one of these days. read more

Inexpensive prices! Good quick basic diner food of burgers, hot dogs, fries, shakes and a few other basic items. I had the dog/burger combo with sweet potato fries, rice pudding and a peanut butter milkshake. Hubby had same combo with regular fries and chocolate shake. Their house sauce on the burger and hot dog is awesome! My pb shake was perfect. Very peanut buttery! Not overly sweet either (I tried the chocolate, I found it too sweet for my taste). The consistency in both shakes was perfect for drinking; no hard straw-sucking to be done. Too full to eat the rice pudding but tried a spoonful. Oh man...very good! Nothing in there was overpowering or overwhelming....it was 'perfect'. I'd come back when in town and in the mood for this type of cuisine. read more

Johnny's Lunch - Their 'booth' table tops. Pretty nifty. - Burgers Near Me - Jamestown, New York

See all

Living in Lakewood and with our lake house in West Ellicott, I grew up on Johnny's hot dogs and fries since it was right in the middle (And my grandparents know everyone in town so of course they were friends with the owners and everyone behind the counter) I haven't been back to Jamestown in a few years now but I know when I do return I'll be able to stop in for a few dogs and fries any time. read more

Cool place - good price - fun atmosphere - average food. I will return on my way through, because local hot dog shops should never go away! read more

Johnny's Lunch - Burgers Near Me - Jamestown, New York

IF you ever think retro diner experience... well Johnny's lunch is the place to be. This was a family tradition since I was a wee little lad. Nothing complex about this place. Hotdogs and burgers with a sauce so amazing it will have you craving more. There is a few historical landmarks in Jamestown ny and Johnny's is one of them. Service soo good is a prime example of the years of business they have. read more

Good greasy dogs. The fries could be better and saltier. Great rice pudding. The family running it are great people. Small town type place. Good food. I'm not a local so it doesn't give me the warm fuzzy nostalgia the locals seem to be rating it with. I've had it 5 times and I'll have it again. Cool place. read more

Johnny's Lunch - Burgers Near Me - Jamestown, New York

This is the best by far Texas hot joint in Western New York nobody even comes close fries onion rings rice pudding just a few of the extras which are also fantastic this is a family-run business and has been for 50 years with no decline in quality of food fair prices great service great location read more

This place is great! They have great hot dogs with their special sauce! Definitely worth it! They do only take cash and have an atm inside. The price is great and it tastes amazing!! read more

A long-time favorite of mine! The food and the service are always good. Any visitor to Jamestown should eat here.

10/10 worth it. Call in for pick up or dine in. Everything is so good. You can even get the hot dog sauce in a tub to go!!

This place was always incredible but my last visit was awful. It's been a few years since I've been but nothing felt the same. The buns were soggy. The burgers were small and lacking any meat. It's truly a shame when something so amazing turns out to be such a let down. The staff is still amazing I just think something has changed and not for the better. read more

LOVE THIS PLACE they are super sweet and customer service is amazing. Can't wait for them to open back up. IN NEED OF JOHNNYS. PLEASE

Passing thru area and saw sign been in business 83years. Delicious Texas hot dogs and onion rings.

Love this place. Family comes in to town every year and we go. Always good. Never disappointed. If you've never been....GO! Nothing better then summer dogs and burgers. Sauce is something you have to experience !! read more

How do you rate and review a place that speaks for itself? This place has stood the test of time. If you want cheap, greasy, good tasting, bad for you food, then this is the place for you. It a thing to behold to just sit and watch the folks behind the counter pump those dogs and burgers out. You can tell the people who work here have been doing it their whole lives. The store is clean but a little odd. The ceiling is low and the room is long. It is decorated with "I Love Lucy"... everywhere. Jamestown is where Lucy was from. Bring your cash or there is an ATM in the corner. Wait in line to order and wait for you name to be screamed across the store wen your order is up. Awesome! The dogs go through a tenderizer, and then, if you want it (you should) they dump a ton of Johnny's sauce on it along with onions and musturd. Coming here is just something you have to do. read more

Best hot dogs in the world!! Born and raised in Jamestown but I live in NC now. I miss it all the time and is always one of the first places I visit when I visit home. read more

Simply outstanding on all fronts. A true greasy spoon with great burgers, dogs, and fries. The place is spotless and the attitude of all staff is warm and attentive. Lots of seating and parking. Truly a unique dining experience for those special days when the ordinary won't do. read more

Hearing that Texas red hots with special/secret sauce were a famous local specialty of my place of birth (Jamestown), I just had to give it a try while in town. According to my local family members, a few places do these hot dogs with special sauce, each claiming to be the best and/or original but Johnny's is not only the best but the true original. Grandma says this place is still run by the same family that ran the original location in Buffalo Square downtown 50+ years ago when she and Grandpa were dating and that the booths here are either the same ones or really good remakes. In any event, Johnny's dogs and burgers are only $0.98 each but you can also get deals on larger numbers and combinations. They come with mustard, onions and special sauce - and the sauce really is all it's cracked up to be. At first it didn't taste like much, but as you take a few more bites you get the full effect of the spices and the spiciness of the black pepper. The dogs are sliced for max sauce-dog contact, service is efficient like a well-oiled (family run) machine, and the place is clean, bright and has its own small parking lot. My only criticism of Johnny's is the tiny, thin buns they use. A slightly heartier bun would perfect this local treat and make it a more satisfying meal, but I still highly recommend this local institution. I hear you can have the sauce delivered, which I'll look into when I get back to SF. read more

Serious guy, this place is awesome! Its been a local favorite for as long as i can remember and about 50 years+. But you have to go the original one in Jamestown NY. I have the fondest happiest memories of eating at this place and everytime i go home i bring all my guests to Johnny's. The bugers and hot dogs are what is all about. Dear god, they are off the chain. If almost as if god himself designed the perfect pile of slop heaping with onions and wonder bread goodness. Look i am just upset as the next guy that they started franchising this place - BUT i'm not even kidding it is out of this world. Like i said the orginal location in Jamestown is still basically like walking into someone's house with all the orginal signage. Oh and the coolest part is how they scream out your name like an angry grandmother when your order is up. I really really hope you hit this place up and eat till you puke. I live in San Francisco now but i still get tears in my eyes everytime i'm drunk at 3am and am only craving one messy sloppy thing. Oh Johnny, wherefore art thou? I'm going back for a wedding in October and i'm going there first on my way home from the airport - thats even before i see my own mother, son! read more

Amazing every single time I've been there. Didn't know you could buy the sauce until the last time I was there so we bought multiple jars to take back home as I'm not from the area. Definitely a must go to for anyone visiting or driving through! read more

If you're within a two-hour drive of Jamestown, NY, a meal at Johnny's Lunch alone is worth the trip. Let me walk you through my usual, which I dream about most nights: Chocolate milk shake. Onion rings. 2 hot dogs with everything: Short beef franks topped with mustard, onions, and Johnny's signature sauce, the bun soaked through with the delicious, mysterious brown goodness. 1 burger, same as the dogs. I don't get it. I just don't get it. When I first moved to Jamestown, all my friends told me I had to try Johnny's. It sounded gross. When I finally relented, the dogs looked just as gross as I imagined -- these short little things smothered in this weird brown sauce. But I tried them, and I couldn't believe that such a tasty combination could exist. The sauce is extraordinary. I don't even know how to describe it -- it's not a meat sauce, it's not a hot sauce, it's not chili. It's brown, and it's mysterious, and the way it combines with the flavor of the dogs, the onions, and the mustard is heavenly. I could easily gobble down one of these in two bites, and I could just as easily gobble down 10 of these in one sitting. Here's the part I don't get: once you try them, you're hooked, the way one can get hooked on booze, or cigarettes, or drugs. That's what everyone told me, and I didn't believe it, but it was true. If enough time goes by, you start to crave it, and the craving becomes more and more unbearable until you'd crawl through the desert on your hands and knees for days without water just to reach the oasis that is Johnny's Lunch. I don't know what they put into the sauce, but it is incredibly addictive. Maybe they do slip something in that requires rehab to get you back to normal. Not that I'm complaining. One thing is for sure, though -- once you try Johnny's Lunch, assuming you order everything on the dogs, you'll never be the same again. read more

Firstly, I have to say that it does dissapoint me that Johnny's Lunch has started franchising. Whats the harm in having a proud one-and-only location? Being a kid from Buffalo, i do very much enjoy texas hots, and my other reviews will point to Louie's on Elmwood and Hodge. I have to say though, Johnny's has em beat! The sauce here is a little lighter, and i believe slightly sweeter and spicier maybe? Its more similar to a gravy than a chili I suppose. It goes well on thier burgers and on the texas-fries as well. The servers are always very friendly, especially the two guys, Michael and Robbie. Anyone in either Buffalo or the Northern Virginia (where i currently live) area that i talk to and happen to be from or have visited Jamestown always get a big smile on thier face when i talk to them about Johnny's lunch. read more