Readers had been whispering about the hot dogs at Pioneer Drive In, nestled in the seemingly remote location of Drawdy, West Virginia. Frankly, Drawdy wasn’t on my map, prompting a quick email exchange to pinpoint this culinary promised land. “Just a hoot and a holler from Peytona,” came the reply. Peytona… vaguely familiar. Further clarification revealed, “Peytona is just a little piece from Racine.” Ah, Racine! Now we’re talking. Racine, just over Len’s Creek Mountain from Hernshaw, a hop from Rt. 94, and a short drive from Marmet – a place everyone knows. Finally oriented, the quest for the Pioneer Drive In hot dog began.
Time was carved out, anticipation grew with each subsequent reader email singing praises of this place. The name “Pioneer Drive In” conjured images of classic carhop service, a retro roadside diner experience in Boone County. Arriving in Drawdy and rounding the bend, the Pioneer Drive In was… not what I expected. In fact, I almost missed it, mistaking it for a typical, unassuming roadside bar. A white cinderblock building, paint peeling, a faded Conestoga wagon painted on the side – it hardly screamed “drive-in.” Adding to the intrigue, two signs offered different names: “Shirley’s Bar and Grill” hung prominently, while the wagon art declared “Pioneer Drive In.” For clarity, and perhaps a touch of whimsy, let’s call it “Shirley’s Bar and Grill at Pioneer Drive In,” or SB&G@PDI for short, reminiscent of beloved ballpark names.
Stepping inside SB&G@PDI revealed a surprisingly inviting interior. Far from a simple drive-in, it boasted a full bar, a pool table, a big screen TV, and scattered tables. Adding to the unpretentious charm, a handwritten drink menu on poster board listed White Russians, Pina Coladas, and Fuzzy Navels. Galvanized buckets of peanuts sat on each table, a welcoming touch. A menu board highlighted the food offerings, with hot dogs claiming the top spot.
Naturally, “everything” on a West Virginia hot dog includes chili, slaw, mustard, and onions. Ketchup, however, seems to be making unwelcome appearances lately. Declining the red condiment, I ordered two hot dogs with the works, minus ketchup. The wait was considerable, but as it turned out, entirely justified.
The hot dogs arrived, nestled in wax paper, warm and inviting. The steamed buns were remarkably soft, molding perfectly to the hand. Unwrapping the first dog released an aroma, a quintessential “Essence of WVHD,” instantly triggering hunger. The first bite confirmed the reader recommendations. Each element of the hot dog was expertly crafted and delicious. If there was any minor critique, the chili could have used a touch more spice and complexity, but its texture and overall flavor were spot on. The slaw was exceptional, generously piled high, and the onions were sweet and finely diced. Truly, a great hot dog.
For the SB&G@PDI hot dog, a rating of 4 1/2 Weenies feels appropriate. While not a perfect 5 on its own, and the atmosphere isn’t adding extra points, a 4 1/2 is a strong endorsement. It currently stands as the best hot dog discovered in Boone County. The trip to Pioneer Drive In is a worthwhile expedition for any hot dog enthusiast seeking authentic West Virginia flavor.
