Good cheeseburger, huge menu selection, and the ice cream looked really good. A few things like the fries, the tortilla chips, and the beef empanada definitely missed the mark for us, which was disappointing because we were told they had the best fries - it sounds like they recently switched to a different style. Soda wise they have fountain coke and a bunch of jarritos in bottles, which is always a good combo to see. I'd probably go back for a hot dog but not sure what else. read more

We came here for a late lunch and got francheesies (hot dog with bacon and cheese). Granted, this was around 2pm but there wasn't a soul in the place except for the man behind the counter. Our francheesies weren't served on a hot dog bun. We got the kind of bread you get an Italian beef sandwich on. I've never seen a hot dog served like this. The meat and cheese was tasty, but that was way too much bread. The fries were terrible. They tasted like they were fried twice or something. It's hard to explain but they're not good. Others mention fresh cut fries. I'm sure those were great. What they're serving now is not an improvement at all. Lunch for two was $35. Not worth it. I'd go elsewhere as there are a lot of nearby places that offer similar food. read more

PSA -- the french fries have changed from fresh cut to frozen ones with a coating. Very disappointing as we used to love the fresh cut french fries. The prices have also almost doubled as the food quality has gone down. Press the "Oh No" button on my review if you agree the old french fries were better. Tacos were still very good and the inside hasn't changed at all under new ownership. read more

The Mean Wiener - French fries have changed - Hot Dogs Near Me - Highwood, Illinois

Mean Weiner you earned this absurdly mean & AWESOME Review. Ladies & gentlemen, this place is a true gem tucked away near Fort Sheridan. Fun atmosphere, good music, excellent customer service and very clean indoor & outdoor dining area (limited seating but it's better than nothing). I have the Francheesie Hot Dog & it was great. Also, love the bread they use here for their buns. Soft, and not cheap. Fries are on point as well. Better than some of the usual cheap crinkle cut or shoe string fries. I'd put their fries on the same level as Five Guys. For the vets & active military in the area, take note they do offer a military discount and your fountain drink is on the house. Loved the experience and food Mean Weiner. Stay Mean! read more

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We used to love coming here because the fries were always fresh. After Michael's changed ownership, the fries there went downhill, and Mean Weiner was one of the few places still doing classic Merkts cheddar fries the right way. Unfortunately, since the switch to the new fries, I don't see myself coming back. I called to ask about the change, and the person I spoke with told me the new fries are "higher quality." In my opinion, that's simply not the case. They are a big step down from what made this place special. The hot dogs are still great, which makes it even more disappointing to see these kinds of changes under the new management. I hope they'll consider bringing the original fries back. read more

Disappointing meal. While the service was excellent, somethings have changed since last visited. An increase in price has been paired with lower quality ingredients. The French fries that were once excellent, have been replaced with a new recipe that is comparable to frozen fries out of an air fryer. Mean Weiner can do better! read more

Very disappointed in the change at this one time staple dining location. We always looked forward gathering as a family over the delicious hand cut fries and quality sandwiches. No more! The fries are now breaded frozen crap that I can toss in my over at home. The sandwich portions shrunk, the only positive is that the Mexican food is still decent, that's not traditionally what one goes to a hot dog place for. Sad to say we will not be returning unless the hand cut fries and quality returns! My understanding is that it did change ownership, that always spells disaster for a long well established restaurant. read more

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT FRENCH FRIES NOW FROZEN Place has new ownership. First thing they did was change the fries. Went from best fresh-cut fries in a 35-mile radius, to the most garbage of all frozen ones--the ones with "coating." It is not possible anyone could think these new coated frozen fries are better. New ownership is clearly motivated by profits, not food quality. A very sad day that does not bode well for the future menu under the new regime. PLEASE HIT THE "OH NO" BUTTON BELOW TO VOICE YOUR DISSATISFACTION. read more

The food is great. I would recommend the cheese enchiladas or the fish and chips. It might seem weird to get fish and chips at a Mexican restaurant but it's worth it. Getting a side of cheese is also a must have. Not only that but the last time I came the man at the counter was incredibly friendly and sweet. Over all, would recommend. read more

Changes for the worse! No longer do they have hand cut fries but now serve frozen 'dusted' ones..... big disappointment. Almost as bad, the jumbo hot dog comes on a bun instead of French roll and the bun fell apart for 3 of the 4 of us. The hot dog was as good as ever but too much else has changed for the cheaper..... The servers were pleasant as usual and the interior hasn't changed in decades. Rumor was it changed ownership and this suggests it may have happened..... read more

Went in to try a hot dog w onions and bacon wrapped around the dog. Two slices of bacon and onions was over $15. Grossly overpriced. Food was ehh. Not worth it nor was the bacon wrapped around the dog. read more

The fish and chips were generously portioned and hot from the fryer, but were tougher and crisper than were enjoyable. The fries were ok. I probably should have gone with a hot dog or tacos. My companion had a taco salad (also very generously portioned). Surprisingly more people dining in than I expected (watching Illinois game). Atmosphere is divey, lots of parking in the lot. read more

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Don't let the name deceive you -- the Mean Wiener includes a large Mexican menu, too! I had the grilled chicken torta, which came with an enormous side of fries. Everything tasted good and certain dishes, including mine, were discounted for Taco Tuesday, which was a pleasant surprise. We ate on the patio, which is no frills, but still pleasant. read more

The Mean Wiener - Grilled chicken torta - Hot Dogs Near Me - Highwood, Illinois

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The occasion is Blackout Wednesday and we decided to go out to the enjoyable little town of Highwood, Illinois this year. The town is an entirely different review in itself. After looking at the different options for food, there's one restaurant that stood out. It's name was enough to grab our curiosity. The Mean Wiener's cartoon mascot displays an aggressive hotdog that brings humor and character to this establishment. Approach the front doors and witness a unique and creative Mexican restaurant that provides an abundance of options for customers to enjoy. Our visit this time included fish and chips, an order of Mexican fries, and an order of elotes. Starting off with the fish and chips, the quality was pretty good. Served with two wedges of lemons, squeezed on top, the entree was tasty. I'd say it's worth a try. Next we had an order of Mexican fries. This alone would have been enough for two to share. This dish is a plate full of fries covered in mole sauce, cheese, sour cream, and lettuce. This was deliciously satisfying and irresistible to stop eating. Finally, we came to the elotes. Sadly, this is where the meal took a turn. While it had a spicy kick to it, the overall taste was not appetizing. The taste was undesirably salty, missing a balance in texture and flavor. After a few bites, we unfortunately could not finish it. If you enjoy elotes, I would recommend going somewhere else for that. Overall, the Mean Wiener is a good place to visit if you're hungry for a mixture between Mexican and American food. The aesthetic of the restaurant alone is worth revisiting among it's large menu. read more

I had a friend from the area recommend that I go here while in town and I am so happy I did!!! The tacos were all amazing. I tried the chicken, Al pastor, and shrimp and loved all of them. Service was quick and prices reasonable, especially for the large portions! I also loved that they had ample outdoor patio seating. I wish this spot was closer to me because I would definitely be here all of the time (and will be back my next visit to the Chicago-area)! read more

The Mean Wiener - 3 The Mean Taco Plate - Hot Dogs Near Me - Highwood, Illinois

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We recently placed a very large catering order, Cinco de Mayo festival-party for Highwood Bocce Club, Sergio was very helpful and extremely accommodating as we set up a Taco Bar with 5 offerings including Fajita-Vegan offering, then a massive Enchiladas order that was a huge hit then provided extras for Taco Salad Bar plus all the sides (Beans-Rice, Outstanding) generous supply of Chips-Salsa. The 2 delivery's were on time and assistance in setting up was greatly appreciated! The Mexican food for the Cinco de Mayo party was a "hit", home run. The HBC and membership greatly appreciated the quality and quantity of food, tremendous service that made the event a huge success!!! read more

The tacos are good, but don't get the Southwest salad! It's basically a big bowl of lettuce with a few things on top! Added chicken and it was $20! read more

PLEASE SAVE YOUR TIME AND MONEY: DO NOT EAT HERE! I've never been treated in such a rude and degrading manner! From being berated and verbally assaulted by the disrespectful "parking lot manager" and an employee who threatened to call the police, claiming I was only parking there to go eat a different restaurant and that he "recognized me" (I have never been to this area). Before being able to even set foot in the restaurant, I have already been attacked and harassed. That's no way to treat your customers! And then big surprise, the food was as terrible as their attitude: abysmal! With bland and tasteless meals, a messy seating area, and unwelcoming atmosphere, this place would only benefit by making you, the customer, miserable. Please, don't go here! Let their mistakes speak for themselves! read more

The Best part of 'The Mean Weiner' Restaurant in Highwood is a gentleman named IRA! He greets me with his warm smile and graciously prepares my order. Exactly how I want it. He's a 'pleaser' with a vibrant personality and an efficient staff! And it shows. By the happy sounds & smiles from all his repeat customers. The colorful room is clean and tidy! Always welcoming! Weather permitting outdoor patio seating. My perfectly prepared tortilla soup with avocado and sour cream topped off with baked tortilla strips is beyond perfect. A generous serving in an oval bowl! My grilled fish tacos garnished with generous toppings of cheese, onion, diced tomatoes & shredded cabbage makes for a perfect culinary Mexican dinner! I have been a customer for 20 years & always pleased with carefully prepared delicious Mexican cuisine. IRA exemplifies fine customer service skills and is a success at The Mean Weiner. The namesake Mean Weiner 'wiener' is the best outside of 'Coney Island'! Filled with pickle slices, onions and peppers & hand cut fries. For dessert, save room for crullers. Their light airy texture will make you buy extra to bring home! Thank you IRA for making Wednesday night a 'delight'! Continued Success! Sandra & Robert Lake Forest read more

Used to love this place it's so expensive now and the food portions are absolutely terrible. I payed $15 for a small shake and a 6 piece wing. read more

The Mean Wiener - 6 piece wing and this was one of them - Hot Dogs Near Me - Highwood, Illinois

In this day and age when even a cheaper venue like this one sets you back over $60 for three people, you would think the food would need to be really good. I've been here once before and was so underwhelmed, but it was several years ago and I was willing to give it another try based on one other person in our party that really wanted to go here. But I will never come back here--the food is just so subpar. We had chips and guacamole--the chips were thick and overly greasy. My burger, on which I asked for them to put cheddar cheese, came with a goopy cheese spread that was just awful. Asked for the burger medium rare and it came well done. The fries that came with the burger were soggy and once again, overly greasy. This place has good reviews; I just don't understand how, though, unless I'm ordering the wrong thing. The ambiance isn't very appealing, either. Cold and without any real thought put into the decor, other than their signature posters of some weird hot dogs they must use as their mascot. So disappointed to have spent this much money on such a basic restaurant, for it all to taste so bad. Drove home past a McDonald's and almost wish I had gotten the burger from there...:( read more

This place is good for tacos if you can't get in Next Door. They also have other food that is not Mexican.

Be forewarned. Mean Wiener has a contract w Dave's Towing to tow cars costing $600 cash to retrieve. My kids parked there to get my lunch but ran next door to grab something else and came back 10 minutes later to find themselves out $600. Unethical partners! I will miss our weekly food from there. Never again!!! read more

This place is fantastic. I absolutely love the shrimp tacos here. I was told to try the hotdogs and I was not disappointed

Friendly service. Surprisingly deep menu of standard dog stand fare plus tacos. Hot dog? Holy cow. That's just outstanding. Whatever this sausage and casing is and how it's cooked is worth a trip. Went bad the next day for another one. Chicago style, naturally Pastor? Good stuff Rib eye steak taco? Tender but not flavorful - I think some salt and really charring it up would bring out the flavors but that's just my opinion read more

So the Mean Wiener is riding the wave of the unsteady economy and I believe that they have found a life preserver. The quality of the food is back to what I remember it being. The staff has been really friendly and attentive to me and my kids. The Mexican food is great. The burgers are crazy amazing. They aren't robbing you with the cost. This is a place that respects the customers time, pallet and wallet. They have a nice setup for indoor and outdoor seating that is casual. Families can eat there. People can talk and you can even have your pup with you. The place is clean and I am so happy that they are back to their old self again. Yayyyyyy Mean Wiener!!!! Everyone should go get The Meanest Wiener at least once in their life. Yup I'm a wiener gal! lol ! Good Job Guys!!! read more

The Taco had too much going on. I think the chorizo overpowered it but it was still delicious. I didn't like the bratwurst at all but I did try my friend's hotdog and it was super delicious. The Tater Tots were good. I had a strawberry shake (not pictured) and that was phenomenal. Overall a decent place. Had a bunch of seating available both inside and outside. The staff was also very nice and helpful. read more

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The no longer have the Daily Specials. Still have unlimited horchata for $2.50. And there is extra seating now in the space that Lucky Fish occupied. read more

I go for the wieners but friends go for the tacos. Generous portions, tasty. Sofa refills. It's our go to as a Dept when school ends for the summer- tradition now! Thank you Mean Wiener! read more

This place may not look like much but so glad I stumbled upon this little hole in the wall place. So from the title you think oh all they have is hot dogs but there is so much more. They serve gyros, chicken tenders, hot dogs, and Mexican food. We couldn't decide so we got a few things. First of all they have the BEST horchata I have ever had in my life. The consistency and sweetness were perfect! I couldn't get enough. Everything was pretty delicious all for a good price too. The only thing which is hard to find a place that makes good elote. It was just okay could skip it the next time I go. Their salsa was so savory. The wait time was quick. We ordered, sat down and within maybe 10 mins we had our food brought to us. A nice little place located on the strip of Highwood that has lots of restaurants on it. Don't count this place out. Definitely worth a try. read more

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came here for taco wednesday (thank you all for the recommendation)! we got 6 tacos and a milkshake all for under $15! wonderful date night with the hubby. I felt very safe and we ate outside. They have plenty of seating outside with hand sanitizer at each table. They also have about two tables inside if you want. All the staff wears masks and gloves and you can't enter without a mask. They also have a plexiglass screen blocking the counter with an intercomm to hear the cashier. You wait outside to pick up your food so it does not get too crowded inside. here are the tacos we got from best to worst. they offer them on corn and flour tortillas. I am a corn tortilla gal but my husband is a flour tortilla guy so we got half and half. steak - very juicy and flavorful chorizo - this was the most decadent, so tasty chile ralleno - love the melted cheese on this, very filling chicken - very juicy and loved it with all of the salsas shrimp - shrimp was a little small and overcooked but the flavors were good al pastor - pork was a little dry and i was kind of expecting pineapple bits but it was just the meat chocolate milkshake - very standard, very tasty, butter cookies on top were a bit stale. we downed this in just a couple minutes. highly recommend, they have plenty of outdoor seating and daily deals. not the best tacos i have had, but pretty good for highwood! read more

The Mean Wiener - Taco Wednesday - Hot Dogs Near Me - Highwood, Illinois

The Mean Wiener is hands down, my favorite Mexican food out of anywhere! I moved out of Illinois 6 years ago, and I dream of it - and make sure to stop by every chance I'm back. The food is authentic and delicious with a reasonable price. My go-to's are always the chicken tacos and Mexican Corn! read more

The Mean Wiener - Taco, Chips & Guacamole, Mexican Corn Elote - Hot Dogs Near Me - Highwood, Illinois

I've been frequenting this place with my change in work hours. The menu caters to everyone and there is so much that I've tried and love. Taco Wednesdays...it's a thing. And an important note, whatever you order, plan on it being delivered to your table in record time! It's utterly amazing how fast and hot the food comes out. Lately I've tried the Coney Island Jumbo - huge and delicious, the Philly Cheesesteak - yes try it, the Cheeseburger - phenomenal, and the Italian Beef - so good when it hits the lips. The staff, besides being fast, are always smiling even when it gets the lunch time crowd. This place is definitely a staple in town. read more

The dogs are tasty. The fries are on the greasy side, but delicious. The service is very helpful. The ambiance is fast food. We ordered churro bites with ice cream, got them without. When we asked for our ice cream, they remade the whole plate for us so we could enjoy warm churros with the ice cream. Next time I'm trying a hamburger. read more

Really impressed with our latest visit to The Mean Weiner. The name implies attitufe and edginess but on this visit I must give major kudos to the awesome attentive service of the entire staff! Ok...when we have kiddos who are past their normal dinner time they could be a bit rowdy...following our ordering at the cashier the cashier offered us complimentary chips and salsa (as a parent I thank you so much!!!). The rest of the meal would have taken a bit more time and maybe this was a way to get the kids to calm on down. Good call. One of the burritos was delayed so I think they came back out again and offered the kiddies ice cream. Whoa ice cream too? Thank you very much the kids were so excited and it was a great time. It's always on our list for Mexican in Highwood. Wait what. Mexican in a place called Mean Weiner? That's the question two sets of people asked us today that we all decided to go and check it out. The Mexican is legit when they serve lengua "tongue" said a former resident of So-Cal Lala land. And yeah, that's where I find the appeal of this place. . This time we ordered a carne asada platter and a fish fillet platter special. Both great portions. We had flour tortillas and I think there were four super fresh and hot tortillas. I was absolutely stuffed...good thing I shared my fish with the kiddies. They LOVED the fish as did I. Very tasty and well seasoned. The accompaniment was avocado, Mexican rice, and corn. All well seasoned with real flavor! My wife had the carne asada which I had a taste. I guess I'm not exactly a huge skirt steak can myself usually. The portion was enough for two. The beans were very tasty. I think the skirt steak was marinated with what I detected as a bit if cumin or maybe adobo seasoning? Not a fan of the texture or flavor in particular, but I think that's just how it is. The accompanying salsas were tasty but not overly spicy. The pepper though...be careful it is spicy but was roasted perfectly and very tasty. And we'll seasoned again. In summary, it's legit...best of both worlds you could get fries with your Mexican favorites. The favorites are all legit and authentic. And I love the Mexican drinks on tap. Good times. read more

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From well-priced food to superb quality, I will no doubt be coming back and being a regular at this restaurant known as The Mean Wiener. While I'm not a particular patron of hotdogs, I had the privilege of trying out their burrito bowls! Yes, a bowl other than Chipotle, and they do it right! With more options for protein and a delicious amount of rice, beans, lettuce, tomato, and cheese as toppings, I enjoyed every bite of my meal! Service was terrific, accommodating when placing an order, and advisable when I came in for the first time. The best way I could describe the food is with the letter S- Savory, Slightly Sweet, Scrumptious, and Satisfying! I cannot give this enough praise. I highly recommend their grilled tilapia, as the protein has so much flavor profile that carries the dish. The establishment surprised me with black beans, and their rice has more flavor than other eateries I wasn't expecting. Overall, if I didn't convince you to try their Mexican side of the menu, then I'm sure you'll love their other options, such as their well-wieners. They also sell tasty burger possibilities for your desire and have some excellent sides to choose from. Needless to say, I can't wait to come again and try some of the other options to choose from. My only regret is not being patient to have a photo for this review as I was too excited to indulge in my lunch. read more

I really enjoyed their steak torta! Very delicious and it came with a side of fries. Looking forward to trying more items on the menu.

Great local place to get a hotdog, burrito, milk shake! Everything is made to order so it's all delicious

Taco Wednesday all day every day right now...under $2! Sending love and support to one of my favorite taco restaurants on the North Shore. They are really doing a great job during this challenging time. I'm so glad they stayed open for take out and curbside. If you haven't been back in awhile (we are weekly regulars), they recently upped their prices only slightly, but they also upped the amount of ingredients in their tacos. I used to eat three tacos, but now two are almost too many! My go-to is the chicken. The chicken is juicy and plentiful. Just the right amount of kick without being spicy. Right now you can call ahead and order and they will bring it to your car if you want. You can also go in and order and then wait in your car or go in for pick up. Last night we picked up tacos and waited only 10 minutes, despite their phone ringing off the hook! read more

The Mean Wiener - Look at those loaded shrimp tacos! - Hot Dogs Near Me - Highwood, Illinois

Just okay, I expected more from an article I read. They have a sign informing customers they don't have fries, but she offered chips, which I have at home. I did ask for the dog to be loaded and it was but tasted same as any other place I every ordered hot dogs. read more