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Kong Dog is the newest eatery to open at Crossgates Mall in Albany, offering up some truly eye-catching takes on the classic hot dog on a stick.
Well-cultured foodies - or anyone with a TikTok account - will recognize the colorful creations as Korean corn dogs, which have risen in popularity in the US thanks to social media.
Hungry patrons begin their visit to Kong Dog by choosing a filling. Options include traditional all beef dogs or all cheese. Indecisive customers can pick a mixture of both.
After that it's time for a quick batter bathe before the toppings go on. And there's no shortage of options to choose from.
Among them: the Rainbow Kong Dog, with a colorful layering of fruity rice cereal. There’s also a spaghetti version with sprinkles of parmesan cheese and marinara sauce.
Fans of spicy foods will appreciate a Kong Dong covered in Hot Cheetos crumbs and a spicy mayo sauce.
Then it’s into the deep fryer for that signature corn dog crunch.
Satisfied guests can wash it all down with one of several beverage options, including brown sugar or strawberry matcha bubble tea.
Though only in business for a couple of weeks, Kong Dog appears to be a hit with online reviewers.
"THIS PLACE IS AMAZING AND YOU HAVE TO TRY IT AT LEAST ONCE!," Afnan A., of Hudson, wrote on Yelp. "They sell Korean Corn dogs here with different types of topping and you can also customize what you want on the inside."
"Can't stop thinking about this corn dog," Angela .H., of Syracuse, wrote on Yelp. "By far the best I have EVER tried. I will definitely return and try different ones."
"We tried fiery Cheetos, ramen coated one and one covered in potatoes," Susanne M., of Kansas, wrote on Yelp. "Each was different and interesting as hell... Great for a junk food urge."
Kong Dog is located in the food court at Crossgates Mall, at 1 Crossgates Mall Rd. in Albany.
Find out more on its website.
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