Some foods are so iconic that they define a city. For Detroit, that food is the coney dog. At Detroit Coney Grill, we’re bringing this legendary Detroit staple to Arizona, and locals in Gilbert and Scottsdale are discovering why Michiganders have been obsessed with this simple yet perfect creation for generations.
What Exactly Is a Detroit Style Coney Dog?
If you’ve never experienced a true Detroit style coney dog, you’re in for a treat. This isn’t your typical ballpark hot dog or even your standard chili dog. The Detroit coney dog is a specific culinary tradition with roots going back over a century.
A proper Detroit coney starts with a natural casing hot dog that snaps when you bite into it. It’s nestled in a steamed bun and topped with an all meat chili sauce (no beans allowed), yellow mustard, and finely diced white onions. That’s it. No ketchup, no elaborate toppings, no unnecessary additions. Just four simple components that come together to create something magical.
The chili isn’t your typical thick, bean filled chili con carne. Detroit coney chili is a thinner, meat based sauce with a distinct flavor profile that includes hints of spice and a touch of sweetness. It’s designed specifically to complement the hot dog, not overpower it.
A Taste of Detroit History
The Detroit coney dog has a fascinating history that reflects the city’s immigrant heritage and blue collar roots. Greek and Macedonian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to Detroit in the early 1900s and created something uniquely American by adapting their flavors to local tastes.
Two iconic Detroit coney establishments, American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island, have stood side by side on Lafayette Boulevard since 1917, creating a friendly rivalry that continues to this day. These establishments set the standard for what a Detroit coney should be, and that tradition lives on in restaurants like ours.
When you order a Detroit style coney dog at our Gilbert or Scottsdale locations, you’re not just getting lunch, you’re participating in over a century of culinary tradition.
Why Detroiters Are Passionate About Their Coneys
Ask anyone from Detroit about coney dogs, and you’ll likely spark an animated conversation. Detroiters are fiercely loyal to their favorite coney spots and have strong opinions about what makes a coney great. Some swear by American, others by Lafayette, and the debate rages on.
This passion stems from the fact that coneys are woven into the fabric of Detroit life. They’re what you grab after a Tigers game, what you crave at 2 AM, what you eat on your lunch break, and what you miss most when you move away from Michigan.
At Detroit Coney Grill, we understand this passion because we share it. That’s why we’re committed to serving authentic Detroit style coney dogs that would make any Michigander proud.
Bringing Authentic Detroit Flavor to Arizona
Many Michigan transplants living in Arizona have told us they never thought they’d find a proper coney dog out here. That’s exactly why we opened Detroit Coney Grill. We saw a community of Michigan natives craving a taste of home and decided to bring that authentic Motor City flavor to the Valley.
Our Detroit style coney dog is made using a recipe that honors the tradition. We source quality natural casing hot dogs that deliver that satisfying snap. Our chili is made in house following time tested methods. We steam our buns to get that perfect texture. And we top everything with the classic combination of mustard and diced onions.
The result? A coney dog that transports you straight to Lafayette Boulevard, whether you’re dining in our Gilbert location on Warner Road or our Scottsdale spot on Hayden Road.
More Than Just Nostalgia
While Michigan natives appreciate the authenticity and the memories our coneys bring back, you don’t need to be from Detroit to love a great coney dog. Arizona locals are discovering what Detroiters have known for generations: when done right, a coney dog is simply delicious.
The combination of the savory hot dog, the flavorful meat chili, the sharp bite of yellow mustard, and the crisp freshness of diced onions creates a perfect balance. Each element plays its part, and together they’re greater than the sum of their parts.
First timers often tell us they weren’t sure what to expect, but became instant fans after their first bite. The Detroit style coney dog is an accessible, affordable, and incredibly satisfying meal that appeals to adventurous eaters and comfort food lovers alike.
The Perfect Game Day Food
Detroit Coney Grill isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a true Detroit fan zone in Arizona. We show every Lions game, every Tigers game, and every Michigan-Michigan State matchup on our big screens with full audio. And what’s the perfect food for watching your team? Coneys, of course.
There’s something about eating a Detroit style coney dog while watching the Lions that just feels right. It’s part of the full Michigan sports experience. Add an ice-cold beer from our draft selection, and you’ve got the perfect game day setup.
Whether you’re a die-hard Michigan fan or someone who enjoys great food and a lively sports bar atmosphere, our coneys and game-day environment make for an unbeatable combination.
Beyond the Classic Coney
While we’re proud of our traditional Detroit style coney dog, we also offer variations that pay homage to other regional favorites and creative twists that have become customer favorites in their own right.
Each variation maintains the quality and care that goes into our classic coney while offering something a little different for those who want to explore. But we always recommend starting with the original; there’s a reason it’s been perfected over more than a century.
Daily Specials Make Coneys Even Better
Great food at great prices is part of the Detroit tradition, and we continue that at both of our Arizona locations. Our daily specials mean you can enjoy Detroit style coney dogs and other menu favorites without breaking the bank.
From Wing Wednesday to Taco Tuesday, there’s always a special running. Our daily happy hour from 3PM to 7PM offers deals on food and drinks, making it the perfect time to stop by and try a coney if you haven’t yet.
Visit Us at Either Location
Ready to experience an authentic Detroit style coney dog for yourself? We’ve got two convenient Valley locations:
6953 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
(480) 597-4300
1422 W Warner Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85233
(480) 272-9842
Both locations are open Monday through Sunday from 10 AM to 9 PM. Order online for takeout or stop in to dine with us and catch the game.
A Community Gathering Place
Detroit Coney Grill has become more than just a place to get great food. We’ve created a community where Michigan natives can connect, where Arizona locals can experience authentic Detroit culture, and where everyone can come together over good food and great sports.
Our walls are decorated with Detroit memorabilia, our TVs show Michigan teams, and our menu serves Michigan classics. But the heart of what we do is bringing people together. Whether you’re meeting old friends who also made the move from Michigan or making new friends who share your love of the Lions, our restaurants are designed to be gathering places.
Order Your Coney Today
Whether you’re a Michigan native craving a taste of home or someone curious about this Detroit legend, there’s never been a better time to try a Detroit style coney dog. Order online for pickup, or better yet, visit us in person to experience the full atmosphere.
One bite and you’ll understand why this simple combination of hot dog, chili, mustard, and onions has captured hearts and satisfied appetites for over a century. The Detroit style coney dog isn’t just food, it’s tradition, it’s community, and it’s absolutely delicious.
Stop by Detroit Coney Grill in Gilbert or Scottsdale today. Your new favorite comfort food is waiting.