What struck me after a weekend in NYC, is how many great dogs can be found in the big A. Beyond the dirty waters pups on the street and the ever-pop Gray's Papaya, Crif Dogs on St. Marks St. was a great find. Low-key, good honest dogs ready in a jiffy was just what we needed after a footsore romp through the East Village. When I got back, I had to check in w/ the brothers behind Bad Dawgs slatted to open on Merrimack. Would, could this place at all be as cool as Crif’s? The answer is Yes. Owner James Kirste told me dogs, ordered steamed or grilled, come 35 different ways (more than Baskin and Robbins boasted). "You can get a hot dog w/ pepperoni or a buffalo with tangy sauce, blue cheese and celery," he said. Turkey/veggie dogs and draught beer are some of the highlights. That's right! Sam Adams and Bud. Also BD (formerly Mossies) will be open until 3 a.m. Thrus.-Sat. That should appease the nightowls tired of the schlepp to Santorias Pizza. Crews are now gutting the space and putting in hardwood floors and painting it orange and blue. Sounds like a basketball team. but cheerful just the same. Orange is the hot color in marketing right now. Bad Dawgs is opening in mid-March. This is something to bark about!