When you ask people about their favorite Coney hot dogs, the conversation can get heated. Coneys are a way of life in Michigan, so loyalties run deep.
While we’ve had our fair share of Detroit-style Coneys, we wanted to see what the Flint-style Coney was all about. What better place to get a taste than at Starlite Diner & Coney Island, located just outside of Flint in Burton, Michigan.
The famous Starlite Diner & Coney Island has been around since 1966. Next year marks their 50th anniversary of slinging delicious eats, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
According to our sources (a.k.a. Google), Koegel’s are required to make a true Flint-style Coney. The snap was intense, contrasting the perfectly steamed bun. What made the Coney truly unique was the dry, finely-ground texture of the meat, a stark contrast to the runny chili sauce of Detroit-style dogs. It was different, but excellent in its own way.
We are definitely fans and look forward to a return visit.
Who makes your favorite Michigan Coney?
I am not a native of Michigan, but when I moved here and heard about the culture surrounding Coneys, I had to try them for myself. I’ve been to many different Coney Islands in Flint and surrounding areas, but Starlite is the home base; their food is incredible, and with great service to match. I absolutely love Coneys, and Starlite has the de facto Coney if you ask me.