Notes:

Not the absolute original hot wiener joint, and also not necessarily the oldest currently operating, but quite likely the first named “New York System”, and indisputably an original, a Providence mainstay for going on a century. It’s certainly the oldest in Providence, and hasn’t moved in all that time, and has changed very little. A recent extensive renovation provided a needed upgrade, but preserved the familiar interior, and maintains the iconic neon sign. And the hot wieners at the core of the business with their still-secret sauce haven’t changed, nor has the comforting presence of an ample supply of cold coffee milk. Longtime fans should feel right at home.

See Quahog.org’s excellent linked article about this place for a more detailed investigation of their history. Those who’ve been here and are familiar with Talking Heads’ “Once in a Lifetime” (especially David Byrne’s curious left-handed ‘arm-chopping’ gesture in the video for the song) will make the connection once they learn that he briefly worked here while attending Rhode Island School of Design on the next hill over. “Same as it ever was” indeed.

Links:

• Baba's Original New York System (Facebook)
• Quahog.org's excellent detailed writeup about ONYS