Hot dogs are more than just a quick bite—they’re a regional delicacy, a piece of culinary history, and for some states, a point of pride. From classic Coney dogs in Michigan to bacon-wrapped Sonoran-style hot dogs in Arizona, each state brings its own unique twist to this beloved American food.
Whether you’re a hot dog purist who loves a simple mustard-and-relish combo or an adventurous eater looking for over-the-top toppings, this list is your ultimate guide to the best hot dogs in every state. Some are historic, others are innovative, but all are worth the trip.
So, grab your appetite and get ready to explore the best hot dogs in America—one bite at a time.
1. Alabama: Gus’s Hot Dogs
In Birmingham, Gus’s Hot Dogs serves a classic dog topped with their secret sauce, mustard, onions, and sauerkraut.
Established in 1947, this local gem attracts hot dog aficionados with its timeless flavor combination. The vintage diner vibe and friendly service make it a staple in Alabama’s culinary scene. A must-try for any hot dog enthusiast visiting the area.
2. Alaska: International House of Hot Dogs
Anchorage’s International House of Hot Dogs offers the McKinley Dog, featuring reindeer sausage and sautéed onions drizzled with a house-made chipotle sauce.
This Alaskan delight brings a taste of the wild to your plate. Perfect for those seeking unique flavors and a touch of adventure, it’s a standout option that showcases local ingredients in an unforgettable way.
3. Arizona: El Güero Canelo
In Tucson, El Güero Canelo is famed for its Sonoran Hot Dog, a bacon-wrapped frank topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, and jalapeño sauce. Known for its vibrant Mexican influence, this hot dog offers a burst of flavors that intrigue the palate.
It’s an iconic dish that attracts both locals and tourists, adding a spicy twist to Arizona’s hot dog scene.
4. Arkansas: The Original ScoopDog
Little Rock’s The Original ScoopDog crafts city-themed hot dogs, featuring Chicago and Detroit styles. With a retro atmosphere and a menu full of choices, it’s a delightful spot where hot dog lovers can enjoy a taste of different cities in one place.
5. California: Pink’s Hot Dogs
Since 1939, Pink’s Hot Dogs in Los Angeles has been an iconic destination, known for the Hollywood Dog topped with chili, mustard, and onions.
As a beloved spot among locals and celebrities, Pink’s combines classic flavors with a touch of star-studded charm. Its rich history and enduring popularity make it a must-visit for hot dog enthusiasts.
6. Colorado: Harley’s: A Hot Dog Revolution
Harley’s in Littleton offers a gourmet hot dog experience with an array of creative toppings. This must-visit spot for hot dog lovers redefines traditional flavors with an innovative menu.
7. Connecticut: Blackie’s Hot Dog Stand
Family-owned since 1928, Blackie’s Hot Dog Stand in Cheshire is renowned for its custom-made frankfurters and signature relish. Offering a quaint and rustic charm, it’s a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.
8. Delaware: Johnnie’s Dog House and Chicken Shack
In Wilmington, Johnnie’s Dog House presents the Delaware Destroyer, a hoagie roll packed with two hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, onions, beef chili, and hot sauce. This indulgent creation is a flavor-packed feast that satisfies hearty appetites.
9. Florida: El Chuzo BBQ
Tampa’s El Chuzo BBQ offers Colombian-style hot dogs, topped with fried potato sticks, bacon, cheese, and various sauces. This flavorful combination brings a taste of Colombia to Florida, offering a unique twist on the classic hot dog.
With its lively outdoor setting, it’s a perfect spot for an enjoyable dining experience that escapes the ordinary.
10. Georgia: Jimmie’s Hot Dogs
Albany’s Jimmie’s Hot Dogs has been serving classic chili, chili cheese, and chili slaw dogs since the mid-20th century.
This charming retro-style diner preserves its legacy through timeless flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere. A favorite local haunt, it offers a nostalgic taste of Georgia’s culinary past that continues to delight patrons.
11. Hawaii: Puka Dog
Puka Dog on Kauai Island features a unique Hawaiian-style hot dog with a “puka” bun filled with a hot dog, garlic lemon sauce, and lilikoi passion fruit mustard. Set against a beachside backdrop, this tropical treat promises a refreshing culinary escape.
It’s an essential stop for anyone exploring Hawaii’s exotic flavors and laid-back culture.
12. Idaho: Scotty’s Hot Dogs
Scotty’s Hot Dogs, a mobile food truck in Boise, is famed for its secret homemade sweet BBQ Scotty’s sauce. This vibrant street food staple attracts locals with its delicious and distinctive flavors.
Offering a casual and lively atmosphere, it’s an ideal place to experience Idaho’s outdoor dining culture and innovative hot dog creations.
13. Illinois: Jimmy’s Red Hots
Chicago’s Jimmy’s Red Hots serves legendary Chicago-style hot dogs with mustard, onions, relish, and sport peppers—strictly no ketchup allowed. A quintessential destination for hot dog purists, it offers an authentic taste of Chicago’s beloved street food.
14. Indiana: Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island Wiener Stand
A staple since 1914, Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island Wiener Stand is celebrated for its classic Coney dogs topped with signature meat sauce, onions, and mustard. The retro decor and nostalgic ambiance offer a charming dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Indiana’s culinary history and timeless hot dog traditions.
15. Iowa: The Flying Wienie
The Flying Wienie delights with its Chicago dog, topped with mustard, dill pickles, onion, tomatoes, relish, sports peppers, and celery salt. Set in a cozy, aviation-themed eatery, this spot combines classic flavors with unique charm.
It’s an inviting place for hot dog fans seeking a taste of Chicago in Iowa’s heartland.
16. Kansas: Wiener Kitchen
Overland Park’s Wiener Kitchen offers artisan sausages, including the chicken apple wiener with strawberry jam, basil mayonnaise, and toasted pecans. This chic, modern eatery is a haven for adventurous diners seeking innovative flavor combinations.
17. Kentucky: Lonnie’s Best Taste of Chicago
Louisville’s Lonnie’s Best Taste of Chicago brings authentic Chicago-style dogs to Kentucky, using all-beef Vienna kosher hot dogs. This cozy diner offers a genuine taste of Chicago’s iconic flavors, wrapped in a welcoming atmosphere.
18. Louisiana: Cochon Butcher
New Orleans’ Cochon Butcher offers gourmet hot dogs with house-made sausages and unique toppings. Reflecting the city’s rich culinary heritage, this trendy spot attracts food lovers with its vibrant atmosphere and innovative menu.
It’s a perfect place for those looking to indulge in Louisiana’s bold and diverse flavors, blending tradition with modern flair.
19. Maine: Flo’s Hot Dogs
Flo’s Hot Dogs in Cape Neddick is a beloved roadside stand, renowned for its steamed hot dogs topped with a secret family relish. With its scenic location, it offers a delightful break for travelers.
20. Maryland: Stuggy’s
Baltimore’s Stuggy’s is known for its creative hot dog options, including the Crab Mac & Cheese Dog. With its modern vibe and eclectic menu, it’s a fantastic destination for adventurous diners seeking innovative takes on the traditional hot dog in Maryland’s vibrant food scene.
21. Massachusetts: George’s Coney Island
George’s Coney Island in Worcester has been a staple since 1918, serving classic hot dogs with a signature chili sauce, mustard, and onions. This historic diner exudes vintage charm with its nostalgic feel, offering a taste of tradition.
It’s a must-visit for those exploring Massachusetts’s culinary heritage and enjoying timeless hot dog flavors.
22. Michigan: American Coney Island
Detroit’s American Coney Island is a historic spot famous for its Coney dogs topped with chili, onions, and mustard. With its art deco decor and lively urban atmosphere, it offers an exciting dining experience.
23. Minnesota: The Wienery
Minneapolis’ The Wienery offers a diverse menu of hot dogs, including vegetarian options, in a cozy diner setting. Known for its retro decor and welcoming vibe, it attracts patrons seeking both classic and innovative flavors.
24. Mississippi: Ward’s
Mississippi’s Ward’s is a fast-food chain celebrated for its chili cheese dogs and authentic local flavor. With its nostalgic fast-food ambiance, it offers a comforting taste of Southern tradition.
Popular among locals, Ward’s provides a satisfying dining experience, making it an essential stop for hot dog lovers.
25. Missouri: Steve’s Hot Dogs
St. Louis’ Steve’s Hot Dogs is renowned for its unique toppings and creative hot dog options. This vibrant eatery pairs delicious flavors with a lively atmosphere, often featuring live music.
Perfect for those seeking culinary creativity, Steve’s offers a memorable experience that captures the spirit of Missouri’s dynamic food scene.
26. Montana: Mr. Hot Dogs
Mr. Hot Dogs in Butte is a local favorite, offering a variety of hot dog options with unique toppings. Set in a cozy, Western-themed eatery, it provides a taste of Montana’s adventurous culinary spirit.
Known for its friendly service and welcoming ambiance, it’s a popular spot for hot dog lovers exploring regional flavors.
27. Nebraska: Coney Island Lunch Room
Coney Island Lunch Room in Grand Island has been a staple since 1933 offering Coney hot dogs with special Coney sauce, fresh-cut fries, and chili. This historic diner exudes a vintage vibe, attracting loyal patrons with its timeless flavors.
28. Nevada: Buldogis Gourmet Hot Dogs
Las Vegas’ Buldogis Gourmet Hot Dogs combines Korean flavors with American classics, featuring options like the K-Town Dog with kimchi, Korean BBQ sauce, and sesame seeds. This modern eatery offers a vibrant atmosphere and a fusion menu, ideal for adventurous diners.
29. New Hampshire: Gilley’s PM Lunch
Portsmouth’s Gilley’s PM Lunch is a historic diner known for its steamed hot dogs served with a variety of classic toppings. With its old-fashioned charm, it attracts loyal patrons seeking a taste of tradition.
It’s a beloved spot for those exploring New Hampshire’s culinary heritage and enjoying simple, satisfying flavors.
30. New Jersey: Rutt’s Hut
Clifton’s Rutt’s Hut is famous for the Ripper, a deep-fried hot dog known for its crispy skin and homemade relish. This bustling diner offers a rustic, casual atmosphere, attracting enthusiastic patrons with its unique offerings.
31. New Mexico: Urban Hotdog Company
This modern, colorful eatery offers a lively vibe and a creative menu, making it a popular destination for hot dog enthusiasts. It’s a perfect spot for those exploring bold flavors in New Mexico’s vibrant food scene.
32. New York: Nathan’s Famous
Coney Island’s Nathan’s Famous is an iconic spot known for its classic hot dogs and annual hot dog eating contest. Set on a historic beachfront, it offers a lively, festive atmosphere that draws visitors from around the world.
33. North Carolina: Snoopy’s Hot Dogs & More
Raleigh’s Snoopy’s Hot Dogs & More serves Carolina-style hot dogs topped with mustard, onions, chili, and slaw. This quaint eatery offers a nostalgic feel and attracts a loyal local following.
34. North Dakota: Würst Bier Hall
This German-inspired establishment offers a diverse selection of sausages, including unique options like rabbit with rattlesnake and jalapeño, as well as wild boar. For those preferring traditional flavors, their bleu cheese or Hawaiian sausages are highly recommended.
The lively atmosphere and extensive beer selection complement the gourmet hot dogs, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
35. Ohio: Tony Packo’s Cafe
Toledo’s Tony Packo’s Cafe is renowned for its Hungarian hot dogs, featuring smoked sausage topped with mustard, onions, and special chili sauce. This historic eatery offers a Hungarian-themed decor and lively ambiance, attracting guests with its unique flavors.
36. Oklahoma: Coney I-Lander
Tulsa’s Coney I-Lander has been serving its famous coneys since 1926, featuring small hot dogs topped with chili, onions, and mustard on a steamed bun. It’s an essential stop for those seeking traditional flavors in Oklahoma’s culinary landscape.
37. Oregon: Otto’s Sausage Kitchen
Portland’s Otto’s Sausage Kitchen is celebrated for its house-made sausages and smoked hot dogs grilled to perfection. This traditional deli offers rustic charm and attracts loyal locals with its authentic flavors.
38. Pennsylvania: Johnny’s Hots
This busy urban stand exudes a classic feel, attracting a diverse, bustling crowd. It’s a beloved destination for those exploring Pennsylvania’s vibrant food scene and seeking hearty, satisfying flavors on the go. A must-try for hot dog enthusiasts in the area.
39. Rhode Island: Olneyville New York System
Providence’s Olneyville New York System is a local institution known for its New York System wieners, topped with mustard, meat sauce, onions, and celery salt.
40. South Carolina: Jack’s Cosmic Dogs
Mount Pleasant’s Jack’s Cosmic Dogs offers unique creations like the Cosmic Dog, featuring blue cheese slaw and sweet potato mustard. This colorful, whimsical eatery exudes a retro vibe, attracting diners with its imaginative flavors.
It’s a delightful spot for those seeking a fun and flavorful hot dog experience in South Carolina.
41. South Dakota: George’s Pizza and Steakhouse
Brookings’ George’s Pizza and Steakhouse is popular for its hot dogs topped with homemade chili, shredded cheese, and diced onions. This cozy, family-friendly restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and satisfying flavors. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, providing a comforting taste.
42. Tennessee: I Dream of Weenie
Nashville’s I Dream of Weenie operates out of a retrofitted VW bus, offering creative hot dogs like the Rebel Yell with pimento cheese, jalapeños, and bacon. This quirky, colorful location exudes a laid-back vibe, attracting adventurous diners.
It’s a must-visit for those exploring Tennessee’s unique culinary scene, offering innovative flavors in a fun setting.
43. Texas: Angry Dog
Dallas’ Angry Dog is renowned for its hearty hot dogs, particularly the Angry Dog topped with chili, onions, and cheese. This bustling bar offers rustic charm and attracts a lively crowd, making it a perfect spot for hearty eats.
44. Utah: J Dawgs
Provo’s J Dawgs is famous for its simple yet delicious hot dogs, featuring a special secret sauce that keeps customers coming back. This modern, casual eatery is a popular destination for those exploring Utah’s culinary delights.
45. Vermont: Al’s French Frys
South Burlington’s Al’s French Frys is a classic spot where you can enjoy traditional hot dogs alongside their famous crinkle-cut fries.
46. Virginia: Chris’ Hot Dogs
Montgomery’s Chris’ Hot Dogs has been serving their famous hot dogs since 1917, topped with a secret chili sauce. This historic diner offers vintage decor and a warm, welcoming vibe, attracting numerous celebrities and politicians.
47. Washington: Matt’s Gourmet Hot Dogs
This trendy eatery offers urban decor and a lively, casual atmosphere, making it a popular spot for hot dog enthusiasts. It’s an exciting destination for those exploring Washington’s diverse culinary scene.
48. West Virginia: Hillbilly Hot Dogs
Lesage’s Hillbilly Hot Dogs offers creative options like the Homewrecker, a 15-inch, one-pound hot dog loaded with toppings. This quirky, fun eatery exudes rustic charm and attracts a lively crowd, making it a unique dining experience.
49. Wisconsin: The Vanguard
Milwaukee’s The Vanguard is known for its house-made sausages and hot dogs, including the Duck BLT with duck sausage, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and garlic mayo. This modern, trendy eatery offers urban decor and is a cherished spot for those exploring Wisconsin’s culinary creativity and enjoying unique, expertly crafted sausages.
50. Wyoming: Born in a Barn
Laramie’s Born in a Barn is renowned for its hearty chili dogs, featuring a savory combination of cheese, bacon, chili, and onion. This casual, rustic eatery offers a lively, welcoming atmosphere which is always a plus.
Leave a comment