Get a Dinger Dog at MIS

Published 4:16 pm Monday, June 11, 2012

A.J. Allmendinger may not be a household name among race fans, but he has his own hot dog at Michigan International Speedway. (Drew Hallowell/Getty Images)

BROOKLYN — The hottest thing in NASCAR might not be Greg Biffle after all. It’s got to be the Dinger Dog, named after NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver A.J. Allmendinger, served only at Michigan International Speedway.

The Dinger Dog is similar to MIS’ signature Coney Dog, but with a little spice — just like A.J. The spicy chili and jalapenos give a little extra fire and kick to an already favorite race-day hot dog.

And it’s endorsed by a NASCAR favorite driver known for his zing.

“I’m not going to lie. I’m pretty excited about the Dinger Dog,” Allmendinger said. “Roger Curtis and the MIS staff promised me a namesake menu item and they delivered with some of my favorite things — spicy chili and jalapenos. Awesome! I can’t wait to have one and see Roger eat 10 of them. I’m pretty sure he promised to eat 10 of them.”

The Coney Dog was invented in Jackson in 1914. The Michigan-style Coney hot dog is unique because of thick chili without beans.

But that’s not all. The Dinger Dog is just one menu item amid a selection of food and beverage offerings at MIS during the Quicken Loans 400, June 15-17, and the Pure Michigan 400, Aug. 17-19.

For those not interested in heat, the standard MIS Coney should cure the hunger. It’s based on the original, not spicy at all, and sure to please any race fan.

“We are all race fans so we try to create menu items that race fans will love to eat,” speedway President Roger Curtis said.

With that in mind, Chef Frank Marrara and his culinary team are not only charged with feeding race fans and corporate guests, but also keeping the menus fresh, current and tasty.

Two new concession stands at MIS will feature a variety of food sure to satisfy the appetite of any race fan.

“We are always aware of elevating the total fan experience at MIS — and this includes the food,” Marrara said. “Guests want value for their money, of course, but they also want really good food. So it is our job to come up with options that meet those needs.”

The Que features a variety of barbecue that is sure to make the mouth water. Everything from ribs to brisket to burnt ends to pulled pork sandwiches will be served at The Que. The Que is on the mezzanine, behind the center grandstands.

Fresco Grill is just that — fresh. Fresco Grill features burritos prepared to order, just like the popular burrito food chains throughout the country. The concession stand will be located between sections 15 and 17 behind the center grandstand.

All race tickets are on sale at www.MISpeedway.com or by phone at (800) 354-1010.