The Squeeze-In

The Squeeze-In is a Sunbury institution that has been continuously operated in the same spot since 1945. Its second-generation proprietor, Chris Snyder, carries on his father’s tradition by slinging his dogs with joy and maintaining close ties to the local community. The Squeeze-In often runs specials and giveaways for communities like EMS providers, firefighters, and veterans. 

Bob Snyder bought the place from its original owner in 2009 and operated it until his death in 2022. When his son was faced with the question of what to do with the shop, he decided to step into his father’s shoes and carry on the tradition of serving hotdogs to the hungry denizens of central PA. When the Squeeze-In celebrated its 80th anniversary, the younger Snyder gave away hundreds of hot dogs, first come first serve, and started a block party of sorts on the line that stretched down the block.  

There are good orders and better orders at the counter. Classic and specialty dogs alike start with locally made Berks beef-and-pork franks and build from there. Go basic with a plain, chili, bean, or sauerkraut-topped dog, or go bold with the signature Squeeze Dog, which is piled with every relevant condiment you can think of (ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, two kinds of chili, sauerkraut) and then also beans. While hot dogs are not exactly health food, the thoughtful ingredient sourcing at the Squeeze-In means that you’re getting high quality meat in your buns. 

Continuing its tradition of working with community vendors, the Squeeze-In proudly serves Moxie and Big Ben’s sodas, which are local brands bottled nearby at the Catawissa Bottling Company. Pair grapefruit Big Ben’s with a Cubano dog for a twist on lemonade-and-a-sandwich, or a sarsaparilla Moxie with a Reuben dog for a mashup of North American inventions. 

Sit down with your dog or order to-go from the window, but do not leave this place without trying the baked butter beans, which can be piled on a dog or served a la carte.