Embark on a cross-country culinary journey as we uncover the tastiest hot dogs in every state. From the iconic to the hidden gems, this list celebrates the diversity of hot dog culture, showcasing unique flavors and toppings that define each state’s culinary identity.
Alabama: Gus’s
Our adventure begins in Birmingham, Alabama, at Gus’s, a hot dog joint steeped in tradition since 1940. Run by a family of Greek immigrants, Gus’s is renowned for its fat, pink, locally-made franks, chargrilled to perfection, and topped with the signature Gus’s onion sauce.
Alaska: Talkeetna Roadhouse
Venture a few hours north of Anchorage to the Talkeetna Roadhouse, where reindeer dogs take center stage. The Chili-Rudy, a delightful concoction of Polish-style franks and reindeer chili, awaits in the heart of one of Alaska’s amiable small towns.
Arizona: El Guero Canelo
In the UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Tucson, El Guero Canelo shines with its famed Sonoran dogs. Picture bacon-wrapped franks nestled in steamed bolillos, adorned with a flavorful ensemble of beans, onions, mustard, mayo, and jalapeño salsa.
Arkansas: Original ScoopDog
Make your way to North Little Rock for a taste of Chicago-style all-beef dogs with a local twist at the Original ScoopDog. Indulge in the Sooie Dog with bacon and barbecue sauce or the Frito Pie dog with queso, Fritos, chili, and celery salt.
California: Barrio Dogg
In San Diego’s Barrio Logan, Barrio Dogg elevates the hot dog game with creative Angus beef franks embraced by Sonoran-style bolillos. The Xolito, featuring a medley of two kinds of onions, tomatoes, crema, salsa verde, Sriracha aioli, and cheddar cheese, awaits your palate.
Colorado: Biker Jim’s
Denver’s Biker Jim’s stands out with exotic game sausages ranging from wild boar and ostrich to rattlesnake and rabbit. A classic choice inspired by Seattle tops the list: cream cheese and caramelized onions.
Connecticut: Blackie’s
Since 1928, Blackie’s in Cheshire has been an iconic roadside favorite, offering local franks on plain rolls. The unique pepper relish and spicy brown mustard make this spot a must-visit for hot dog enthusiasts.
Delaware: Dog House and Deer Head Chili Dogs
Delaware’s best chili dog is a battleground between Dog House in New Castle and Deer Head Chili Dogs in Wilmington and Newark. Both legendary spots present chili dogs with split foot-longs on hoagie rolls, each vying for the title of the state’s supreme chili dog.
Florida: El Mago de las Fritas
Head to Miami’s El Mago de las Fritas to experience the vibrant South American hot dog culture. The Cuban-style perros, especially the Mago Meaty Dog with ham croquetas, potato sticks, and frita meat, showcase the rich flavors of this cultural hotspot.
