East of Buffalo, US-20 makes a rigidly straight run through the flat corn and hay fields that climb the gradually rising plateau toward the Finger Lakes. This 40-mile stretch is virtually devoid of traffic, thanks to the faster-moving NY Thruway and serpentine Hwy-5, which links up with US-20 at Avon. Splash some cold homemade root beer down your throat to wake up and address the burning sensation left by the grilled, vinegar-doused, chili-drenched Texas Hot and Pork Hot Zweigle-brand hot dogs that are family staples at Tom Wahl’s (585/226-2420) at 283 E. Main Street, two blocks east of Avon’s leafy green central park. Birthplace of a regional favorite with locations all over western New York, this rambling Avon institution has been a required tour-bus stopover since 1955 thanks to its soft ice cream, frosty mugs, and gut-busting Wahlburgers (ground steak on a six-inch bun, topped with a slice of grilled Virginia ham and Tom’s special, mayonnaise-based sauce).
