The Griller’s Guide to America’s Best Regional Hot Dog Styles
Updated: Apr. 13, 2023
From Chicago to New York, these are America’s best hot dogs.
Chicago-style Hot Dogs
Perhaps the most famous dog on this list, a Chicago-style sausage features an all-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun. Chicagoans load up their hot dogs with mustard, pickle spears, chopped onions, relish, tomato, pickled peppers and celery salt. One condiment you won’t find? Ketchup.
Jersey-Style Hot Dogs
These hot dogs are so hearty, you won’t even need a side dish! In Northern New Jersey, you’ll find franks topped with peppers, onions and fried potatoes.
Cincinnati Chili Dogs
This style takes hot dogs to a whole new level. Start by nestling your dog in a bun, then pile on the Cincinnati chili, diced onion and shredded cheddar cheese.
Rhode Island Hot Wieners
In Rhode Island we don’t call ‘em hot dogs—they’re wieners! To make this regional style, place your wiener in a bun, then top with mustard, chopped onion, celery salt and a well-seasoned meat sauce.
New York Hot Dogs
These are the dogs you can find at push-carts all across the city. The secret? Keep it simple. A New York-style hot dog features mustard, sauerkraut and onions cooked in ketchup.
Coney Dogs
While there are many variations of a coney (i.e. chili) dog across the country, the original still calls Coney Island home. Simply top your dog with a heaping scoop of chili and, if desired, a little mustard and onion. Yum! Get 18 more great recipes from New York.
Atlanta Dogs
In Atlanta, you’ll find a fresh twist on the classic chili dog. Creamy, crunchy coleslaw helps cut through the hearty dish. Make ‘em by piling a hot dog and chili on a bun, then slathering the top with a spoonful of coleslaw. Here are the best hot dog toppings you haven’t tried yet.
Seattle-style Hot Dog
Craving something cool? Then try a Seattle dog. This beloved dish involves a hot dog, cream cheese and sautéed onions. For a spicy twist, add fresh jalapenos.
Sonoran Dogs
Popular in Phoenix and other Southern cities, the Sonoran dog is pretty bold. First, wrap a hot dog in bacon. Then, place the dogs on a bun and bury them in pinto beans, tomatoes, onions and the condiments of your choice—mayo, mustard and salsa are all popular options.
Kansas City-style Hot Dog
If a Reuben sandwich met a hot dog, you’d end up with this flavorful variation. Start with a pork-based hot dog and a sesame seed bun, then add melty Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and mustard. If you’re feeling bold, you can use Thousand Island dressing, too.
Originally Published: April 18, 2019
