Downtown Tulsa Thursday night or Saturday shopping always included a trip to Coney Island. Just standing outside in line watching I believe an old to me, Greek fellow with thick glasses move weiners around on the much used grill. The grill had constant movement of the very special little dogs. The grill was thick but was worn from the movement. Once in, you got your tray and ordered from the guy with the white paper hat. Everyone wore one. How many please. I was 3 or 4 so I got 2. My Dad, always 4. The making began. First the buns were lined up on the special stainless tray then the wooden stick into the mustard with a pace so quickly, not a drop was spilled. Then with the fork turned upside down, the perfectly cooked weiners were jabbed and inserted into the steaming bun. The old man then handed it off to the finisher for chili that can't be described it was so good then the finely chopped onions neatly pressed into the chili. They were then slid onto an oval heavy dish sat on your tray then moved down to get your pop from the cooler, the type with cold water. The pop was also small special bottles. You see, this place was so good and special, everything they served was specially made for them. The coneys were a dime. Pop 7 cents. I cannot remember chips. You just wanted that coney. I'm nearly 61 now I've never come close nor do I even try to find a coney of this quality. I would take a plate of four coneys and a coke over any filet anywhere. I moved away from Tulsa. My Mom was there until her passing in 05. Nearly each time I visited, we went to Coney island. She normally ate very light but always got her 3 coneys and a coke. We are planning a route 66 road trip soon and a stop at the downtown location even though not the same location, is on the ""for sure list"" Thank you Coney island for being a part of my downtown Tulsa memories especially at Christmas time. All the decorations. Oh for the good old days!
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