Bird dogs are a thing to eat, and they're an Anderson original. Let's bite into options
Sweet and salty food combinations are a surefire delight, right?
An Anderson original known as the bird dog has just passed the 25-year mark.
A marriage of chicken tenders, bacon, cheese and honey mustard and all wedged between a toasted bun are the ingredients to this Electric City's signature alternate hot dog.
It may not be as regionally known as peanuts in a Coca Cola, or The Working Man's Lunch — a Moon Pie and RC Cola — but there's an authenticity to the bird dog in Anderson.
The bird-dog history can be traced to Daddy Rabbitt's, a small diner at the present site of Schlotzsky's on State 81 in Anderson.
Related reading: Good stories, bird dogs abound at JC’s Restaurant in Anderson
Here are some of the best options for the famous bird dog here in Anderson.
JC's Sandwich Shoppe
JC's was named after longtime Anderson Chevy dealer Jim Connell.
Beyond the original bird dog at now-closed Daddy Rabbitt's on Highway 81, JC's has remained likely the most popular option in town for the savory chicken sandwich.
The side door, designated for pickups and ordering, is a surprise entryway for any first-time visitors, as is the endless selection of sandwiches, salads and grilled meals.
Many people go for the bird dog, of course.
It comes in a single, double or triple, which refers to the number of chicken strips that come in the bun. It's accompanied by a single strip of bacon, sprinkled cheese and crispy fries.
Raines on Main
This is a downtown lunch option that packs plenty of breaded poultry punch.
Raines' rendition of a bird dog comes with the classic fixings, however, the bacon is chopped and sprinkled over the top of the dog.
So good.
The Chicken Basket
Monday through Wednesday, this bird dog special comes with a side and a drink for $8.99. The rest of the week, the special runs with two sides for $10.19.
Pair a bird dog with options including fries, slaw, baked beans, mac salad, mashed potatoes, green beans and daily side specials like chicken dressing, honey-glazed ham and pinto beans.
Arnold's
Real chicken breast and real cheese are served on one or two bird dogs for $6.99 or $8.99 with fries and slaw.
"We use fresh ingredients made to order," said Jeremy Scruggs, assistant manager. "We don't cook them until you order them."
A solo bird dog will cost $4.59.
The Boondocks
This is served with melted cheddar cheese, a huge bun and a "white gold" honey-mustard sauce, along with fries.
Fruit Punch Sandwich Shop
This traditional bird dog comes with a slice of melted cheese over the top and tater tots on the side.
Other options for bird dogs:
Barnwood Grill
Zimbe Dogs
Nutty Sweet Shop
Did we miss one of your favorite bird dog options? Feel free to drop a line and let us know.
– A.J. Jackson is a general assignment reporter for the Independent Mail. Email him at ajackson@gannett.com with story ideas and leads.
This article originally appeared on Anderson Independent Mail: Bird dogs are a thing to eat, and they're an Anderson SC original
