During a time when things associated with Detroit seem to have lost their luster, One Stop Coney Shop — located between LaGrave and Jefferson in downtown Grand Rapids at 154 Fulton — proves that there are some industries that will never need a bailout. Hot dogs.

Founded only weeks ago by Leslie and Brian DeGalan of Grosse Point, One Stop specializes in “authentic Detroit, Flint and Chicago style hot dogs and fried potatoes done in authentic Belgian style.”

Sporting a menu that ranges from Chicago-style (poppyseed bun, tomato, green relish, sport pepper, mustard, onion, pickle) and Grand Rapids-style dogs (ketchup, onions, mustard, relish, chili) to grilled pitas and Greek salads, One Stop definitely lives up to its namesake.

Although places like Yesterdog and The Dog Pit seem to have found their specialty in catering and servicing the late night bar crowds, One Stop gives downtown eateries new competition.

Not only are the menu options plentiful, but the simple yet stylish interior makes for an aesthetically pleasing visit as well.

As a friend and I have heard great things about One Stop, we figured we’d give it a shot. We stopped by during the lunch hour on a Monday. I ordered the Chicago style while Jeff took the Grand Rapids dog. We both ordered combos so we could try the fries too.

After we ordered, we sat ourselves and were promptly served by Mrs. DeGalan within five minutes. Everything looked fantastic.

After living in Chicago for four months, I like to think I have an idea of what a Chicago dog tastes like. And One Stop did not disappoint. Even though the fries were a little cold, the texture was great.

The Grand Rapids dog — something that seems to have been created by the DeGalans — was tasty as well. With the steamed bun, the dog was even more enjoyable.

Although One Stop provides an abundance of eating options, the space can ‘cramp your style.’ Each table is supplied with napkins and condiments, but if you plan to eat with a party of four make sure you sit near the window.

The ambition in opening a new restaurant in these economic times (let alone a hot dog shop in Grand Rapids) is admirable, but creating a niche and surviving is another thing. But because you can buy a dog, fries, and a drink for around six bucks, there is hope that One Stop can find its place in Grand Rapids. But the odds are against them. Cramped sitting and cold fries — in my opinion — doesn’t help their cause.

But investing in Twitter and Facebook does. If you follow @OneStopConey on Twitter, you can hear about special ‘online only’ deals. Greek salads for 2.49 and dollar dogs til close are just a couple of advertisements that the acute Twitter-er has knowledge of.

Because the aforementioned Yesterdog is my personal favorite after years of attending Aquinas College, I was skeptical to hear that a new hot dog stand was coming to Grand Rapids. But if you’re looking for a new place to eat a hot dog that offers quality, affordable food be sure to stop by One Stop.

One Stop Coney Shop (Rating: ★★★ 1/2)
Where: 154 Fulton SE, Grand Rapids
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the winter
Ambiance: Typical Hot Dog Stand
How much will it cost you: Dogs are no more than $3, Combos can go up to $8.
Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard
Alcohol: No
Reservations: No
Wireless Internet: Yes
Contact: (616) 233-9700
Online: www.onestopconeyshop.com/