Two new restaurants just a few blocks apart, both opening the same week?
Not bad for a particular stretch of Indian School Road that hasn't see a lot of action lately. The brand-new dining options are cheap, cheerful, and casual.
Maui Dog is a brightly painted joint that took over the former Ricky's Big Philly location (3538 E. Indian School), serving hot dogs and bratwurst decked out with garlic mayo, mustard (including a passionfruit-flavored option), tropical fruit relish, and additional toppings such as bacon, avocado, cilantro, or Hawaiian coleslaw.
Meanwhile, Loving Hut is the newest incarnation of the former Vegetarian House (3239 E. Indian School), with a completely vegan, mostly Asian-inspired menu. A couple months ago, I reviewed its sister eatery in north Glendale and was surprised at how tasty it was -- fake meat and all.