I have to start out with a confession, I honestly didn’t really know if the Toledo Zoo could compare to my home zoo (Cincinnati Zoo) and I was pleasantly surprised that the Toledo Zoo exceeded my expectations. Our first visit to the Toledo Zoo began at the Aquarium with a Behind-the-Scenes Tour with Ron Fricke, deputy director of the Zoo.
When I was researching places to visit in Toledo, Ohio, Tony Packo’s was #1 on the list. Why?
I was intrigued to know more about a restaurant that showcased buns signed by celebrities on the wall. Buns? Yes, hot dogs buns covering every wall from Presidents to astronauts and even Mr. T! The very first signed bun was by Burt Reynolds, after that a new tradition was formed for each celebrity who walked through the doors. Tony Packo’s was also mentioned in 6 episodes of M*A*S*H by Toledo native Jamie Farr, who played Maxwell Klinger in the television show.
It’s really interesting to observe the fascinating collection of celebrities whose buns grace the walls.
There are only two remaining hot dog buns from the original collection. You can view Jimmy Carter’s original signed hot dog bun on the wall. The other hot dog buns from the 1970’s disintegrated over time. The over 500+ other signed buns on the wall are custom artificial buns.
The boys and I were treated to Hungarian hospitality by Tony Packo Jr. himself during our visit.
We enjoyed Tony Packo’s Original Hot Dogs (Hungarian hot dog -sausage with chili), Original Fried Pickles and Peppers, Chili Cheese Fries, Stuffed Cabbage,Chicken Paprikas, Mac N’ Cheese, Apple Strudel and Chocolate Chip Cookies with ice cream. Tony Packo’s is known for their pickles and chili that has a little kick to it. Our Hungarian feast made for wonderful leftovers the following day. (The lighting for the pictures didn’t do them justice)
After our visit we enjoyed eating several items from the restaurant store.
The pickle popcorn is extremely unique but I kind of liked it. It’s definitely an acquired taste but you can sample it in the gift shop.
We also enjoyed several jars of the specialty pickles along with the hot dog chili.
Tony Packo’s has a fun atmosphere and food. You can add trying to get your name added to the bun wall of fame to your life goals.
Find out for yourself why locals and tourists alike enjoy visiting this restaurant.
You can find out more about Tony Packo’s from their website.
The Original Tony Packo’s is located 1902 Front Street, Toledo, OH 43605.
