Best vegetarian restaurant that's gone to the dogs

Sure, the carnivores love it -- that's no surprise. But the vegetarians among us have plenty to like about Spike's Junkyard Dogs, too. That's because the Allston hot-dog joint offers each of its many dogs -- be it the Mutt (plain dog), the German Shepherd (sauerkraut and mustard), the '57 T-Bird (honey mustard and Swiss cheese), the Samurai (teriyaki sauce and sautéed onions), the Pizza (pizza sauce, mozzarella, and Italian spices), or any of the other myriad combinations -- in meat-free versions. The fat-free veggie dogs are as affordable as their 100-percent-beef counterparts -- prices range from $2.25 to $2.85 per dog -- and can be complemented by sides like curly French fries, baked beans, chili, and salad. Of course, not all of Spike's menu is vegetarian-friendly -- there are no soy versions of the grilled- and fried-chicken sandwiches, for instance -- but after enduring years of Fenway-frank envy, local vegetarians will take what they can get.

Spike's Junkyard Dogs, 108 Brighton Avenue, Allston, (617) 254-7700.