My wife Marcela and I find ourselves in the downtown part of Columbia City, Indiana. It’s by choice, of course, since I needed to have a couple of The Nook’s Coney Dogs.

The grill at The Nook in Columbia City, Indiana — The grill at The Nook

Seating & Counter at The Nook in Columbia City, Indiana — The Counter

The Nook (223 West Van Buren Street) opened up shop way back in 1971. Well, granted 1971 ain’t that far back considering some of the stops I’ve made on road trips, but it is impressive.

Coney Dog from The Nook in Columbia City, Indiana — Coney Dog

The Coneys will only set you back about $1.75, which is incredible. The chili sauce is a family recipe and, with good reason, is kept secret. I had my Coneys with sauce, mustard, and diced onion, the way every good American should eat it: sorry guys but no ketchup for me on hot dogs.

Breaded Cheeseburger from The Nook in Columbia City, Indiana — Breaded Cheeseburger

A closer look at the Breaded Cheeseburger from The Nook in Columbia City, Indiana — Breaded Cheeseburger, a closer look

The Breaded Pork Loin is a thing in Indiana, but I never did try one. My interest was piqued when I saw Breaded Cheeseburger on the menu. I had seen it on one other menu while in Indiana. The breaded cheeseburger is a regional thing burger specialty. This particular breaded cheeseburger was not housemade, though.

I didn’t care much for it, but it’s a famous sandwich on their menu. I wonder if anyone in the state of Indiana makes a freshly battered version, that would be worth exploring.

Hit up The Nook for an awesome Coney Dog and the super friendly service.

The Nook's Menu in Columbia City, Indiana — The Menu

Brewha Coffee House

Marcela also stopped into theBrewha Coffee House (120 N Main Street) right after The Nook while I waited in the car. She ordered and thoroughly enjoyed a Spice Chai Latte with Almond Milk, whatever that means.