On the sidewalk above Dee's Texas Hot Dog, 234 E. College Ave., sits a wooden sign that happens to be a hot dog dressed as a cowboy. Perhaps it is a sight rarely seen on the streets of State College, but the quirky billboard could not be more perfect for the restaurant that is most unique -- both in style and taste -- in town.

Dee's opened its doors in August of 2000 after four years of planning by its owners and, more importantly, when the nucleus of the restaurant was perfected: its Texas-style chili.

A savory beanless meat sauce that takes more than five hours to slow cook, the chili is the basis of Dee's famous Texas hot dog, a must-try for any first time visitor.

Served with a special sauce, mustard and finely chopped onions, the Texas hot dog is everything a good dog should be.

But do not dare stopping after one. Enjoy one of the six other house hot dog specialties, or even customize your own.

If you're feeling a little bit country, try the Southern dog, topped with coleslaw and chili. Especially daring today? Take a taste of the Heartstopper loaded with bacon, chili and cheese. It may be guaranteed to clog your arteries in seconds, but it's worth every bite. At only $1.25 a pop, I'll take two. Throw in a soda, and lunch will only cost $3.25

Panini grilled sandwiches and salads round out the main courses, but do not expect mediocre quality. Made with only the freshest ingredients, they give the hot dogs a run for their money, as everything costs under $6.

Even the soup is super fun. Not interested in the delicious broccoli, then try pumpkin -- or one of the other 23 options crafted fresh each morning.

If you aren't full yet, enjoy a root beer float -- made with half a pound of vanilla ice cream.

Dee's is honestly unlike any eatery in State College.

I was approached by one customer who, after swearing he wasn't on the payroll, raved about how Dee's mayonnaise-free tuna salad was the best he has ever had.

The lunch line is often a dozen deep as customers wait enthusiastically as the staff tries to guess what you'll order as part of their extra friendly and speedy service.

The walls are lined with photos of customers who make sure to take a trip into Dee's as frequently as possible. The faces are of all ages, races and hairstyles with signatures etched in glittery ink spelling out Dee's praises.

Rumor has it, if you come by Dee's Texas Hot Dog once, you're guaranteed to come by again.

I spotted photos of several of my friends and I wondered why they never told me about Dee's -- did they think I was not good enough? Or was it because they wanted to keep this hidden gem all for themselves?