1. Nathan’s Famous — Coney Island, New York
If you’ve never been to Nathan’s, have you really even eaten a hot dog? Nathan’s Famous has been serving up their iconic, juicy franks since 1916. Their original location on Coney Island is a pilgrimage spot for hot dog lovers. And don’t forget to time your visit around the Fourth of July if you want to witness their legendary hot dog eating contest.
2. Pink’s Hot Dogs — Los Angeles, California
This family-run institution has been in business since 1939 and continues to draw crowds with its creative hot dog menu. Try the “Martha Stewart Dog,” which comes loaded with mustard, relish, onions, bacon, chopped tomatoes, and sauerkraut. It’s a mouthful in every sense of the word, and you might even spot a celebrity while you’re there.
3. Superdawg Drive-In — Chicago, Illinois
No hot dog list would be complete without mentioning Chicago, and Superdawg Drive-In is a classic. This retro joint has been serving its iconic “Superdawg” since 1948. Their hot dogs come topped with the city’s essentials—bright green relish, mustard, onions, pickles, and sport peppers—all in a poppy seed bun. Just remember, no ketchup allowed!
4. Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs — Denver, Colorado
If you’re feeling adventurous, Biker Jim’s is the place to be. Specializing in wild game sausages, you can try elk, reindeer, or rattlesnake hot dogs here. Don’t miss the “Chernobyl” with wasabi aioli and caramelized onions for a fiery kick. It’s not your average hot dog experience, but that’s the whole point.
5. Crif Dogs — New York City, New York
Located in the East Village, Crif Dogs is known for its creative hot dog toppings. The “Spicy Redneck” is a fan favorite, featuring a bacon-wrapped dog topped with coleslaw, chili, and jalapeños. It’s messy, indulgent, and exactly what you want after a night out in the city.
6. Frank — Austin, Texas
Frank takes hot dogs seriously. This Austin hotspot is known for its house-made sausages and gourmet toppings. For a true Texas twist, try the “Jackalope” made with antelope, rabbit, and pork sausage. Pair it with one of their craft cocktails, and you’ve got yourself a memorable meal.
7. Hot Doug’s — Chicago, Illinois (Special Pop-Up)
Though Hot Doug’s closed its original storefront in 2014, you can still find Doug Sohn’s legendary hot dogs at special events around Chicago. The foie gras dog is an absolute game-changer. If you ever see a Hot Doug’s pop-up, don’t think twice—just go!
8. The Varsity — Atlanta, Georgia
The Varsity is an Atlanta institution and the world’s largest drive-in restaurant. Known for its “naked dogs” (plain hot dogs), this place has been slinging franks since 1928. Order a “heavy dog” if you want it fully loaded with chili, mustard, and onions. And whatever you do, wash it down with a frosty Varsity Orange.
9. Dat Dog — New Orleans, Louisiana
Dat Dog brings the party spirit of NOLA to their hot dogs. The vibrant, colorful setting matches the creative options like alligator sausage or the “Crawfish Étouffée Dog.” Don’t forget to add some Creole mustard and a side of sweet potato fries.
10. Tony’s Hot Dogs — Birmingham, Alabama
Tony’s Hot Dogs is a local legend, especially for their chili dogs. The chili is homemade and perfectly seasoned, adding just the right amount of kick. It’s no-frills, straightforward goodness that keeps the locals coming back for more.
11. Coney Island Dogs — Detroit, Michigan
Detroit’s version of Coney Island Dogs is something special. Lafayette Coney Island and its rival, American Coney Island, have been battling it out for the best dog in town for decades. Both serve up a hot dog smothered in a savory beef chili, chopped onions, and a drizzle of mustard.
12. Rutt’s Hut — Clifton, New Jersey
This is the place to go if you like your hot dogs crispy. Rutt’s Hut is famous for its “Ripper,” a deep-fried hot dog that splits open and gets that perfect crispy edge. Order it with their house-made relish for a tangy twist.
13. Voodoo Dog — Tallahassee, Florida
Voodoo Dog adds a funky flair to their hot dog menu, making it a favorite among college students and locals alike. Try the “Tater Tot Dog,” which comes piled with crispy tater tots, bacon, and cheddar cheese. It’s like combining all your guilty pleasures into one perfect bite.
14. Portland Dog House — Portland, Oregon
Portland’s quirky food scene includes some of the best hot dogs you’ll find on the West Coast. Portland Dog House stands out with its locally sourced sausages and artisanal toppings. The “Porklandia” is a fan-favorite, featuring a pork sausage topped with house-made slaw and smoky barbecue sauce.
15. Speed Dog — Boston, Massachusetts
Speed Dog is a Boston legend with a cult following. It started as a food truck serving construction workers and now has a brick-and-mortar shop. The secret to their amazing hot dogs? They’re grilled in a special blend of spices and served on a toasted bun with just the right amount of char.
