These aren’t haute dogs. Go somewhere else for that. These are legendary, creative genius hot dogs, burgers, boneless pork chop sammiches, Philly Cheese, delicious shakes, fries, and so much more!
Born in Chicago (might know a thing or two about hot dogs) Willie Chambers fell in love with Coastal Georgia. He moved to Brunswick and with his lovely wife, Yvonne and opened up a little hot dog hot dog cart on Norwich Street. By 1975, he moved into its iconic yellow and white striped building on Altama (/ă/l – t/ă/ma) across from The College of Coastal Georgia. The restaurant quickly became a local landmark, famous for items like the Willie Dog (topped with relish, tomato, and onion), the Brunswick Dog (with grilled onions and cheese), and the signature boneless pork chop sandwich. The eatery emphasized fast service, Southern favorites, and “Brunswick Proud” values, serving generations.
Sadly Willy left us in 2009, but Ms. Yvonne carried on with the restaurant’s family-first ethos. Today the “Wagon” is being run by Michael Thomas (a 17-year employee) and Donte and Natalie Habersham of the Mr. Shucks group. Not only have they honored Willie’s legacy, but they kindly added a screened in porch over the picnic dining area.
I had just finished filming a podcast about suicide prevention on a Saturday. Pretty depressing stuff. I needed some smiling, friendly faces and good ol’ comfort food so I headed over to Willie’s. I haven’t been since they added the screen porch – the restaurant looks great! I ordered up a slaw dog and a kraut dog to go. I gave them my name, took a seat and 5 minutes later they called out my name.
I got home to unwrap my juicy bundles of joy and dig in. These dogs don’t disappoint. The slaw is sweet, so if you’re not into that kind of thing, maybe stick with the kraut. Really spot on. The buns are melt in your mouth and the whole experience is just so smooth.
A couple of other things worth mentioning from my past experiences:
- If it’s your first time here, get a coupe of dogs and fries (you can even choose burnt!). Your choice: cheese dog, Brunswick Dog (Mayo, Ketchup, Cheese, Grilled Onions), The Willie Dog (Mustard, Raw Onions, Relish, Tomatoes) and so much more. One note: the chili has beans. A bit unusual for hot dogs but it works just fine.
- If it’s your second time here, Cassie swears by the Philly Cheese. It indeed looks amazing. The locals made famous the Fried Pork Chop Sandwich which makes my mouth water just thinking about it.
- They’re also proud of the side of hot peppers. Get you some!
- Whatever you do, save room for a milkshake. Like Willie’s just the classics: Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry and Oreo. Oh yes.
WILLIE’S WEE-NEE WAGON
3599 Altama Ave, Brunswick, GA 31520
Monday – Thursday 11am – 9pm
Friday & Saturday 10:30am – 10pm
Closed Sunday