NJ hot dog mecca sues deli over name

[March 18, 2011]  CLIFTON, N.J. (AP) -- One of New Jersey's hot dog institutions isn't sparing the sauerkraut when it comes to a competitor five miles away.

Rutt's Hut in Clifton has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against the owners of Mutt's Hut. Rutt's, which is known for "ripper dogs" fried in fat until the skin rips, claims Mutt's it trying to capitalize on the 83-year-old restaurant's reputation. Mutt's changed its name from Adam's Bagel & Deli in January. Ahmed Mohamed, who is the son of Mutt's co-owner, told The Record newspaper they changed the name because a co-owner had held a trademark on it since 2006 and wanted to use it. Attorney Gregg Paradise, who represents Rutt's, says there's evidence that customers are confused about whether the restaurants are affiliated. ___ Information from: The Record, http://www.northjersey.com/ [Associated Press] Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.