21 Hot Dogs That You Have To Try (PHOTOS)
A Brief History: From European Roots to American Icon
The modern hot dog’s story begins in Central Europe. Two cities—Frankfurt, Germany (the home of the frankfurter) and Vienna, Austria (the birthplace of the wiener)—both lay claim to the invention of the sausage. German immigrants brought their recipes to New York in the 1860s, where street vendors sold what were sometimes called “dachshund sausages” because of their long, slender shape. By 1884, the term “hot dog” was in circulation—with a tongue-in-cheek suggestion that the mystery meat might even be canine.
In 1871, Charles Feltman opened a stand at Coney Island, forever linking the hot dog to leisure and fun. His legacy was soon joined by Nathan Handwerker—a Polish immigrant who founded Nathan’s Famous at Coney Island in 1916—further cementing the hot dog as an enduring symbol of American street food. Over time, hot dogs evolved into a variety of regional specialties, each reflecting local tastes and cultural influences. Let’s take a closer look at these variations.
1. The Classic New York-Style Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Rooted in the city’s early immigrant street-food culture, the New York-style hot dog is a nostalgic nod to its German heritage. Traditionally, these dogs are steamed and served in a soft bun.
Signature Toppings:
- Sauerkraut
- Brown mustard
- Sautéed onions
Iconic stands like Papaya King in New York keep this tradition alive, balancing tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
2. The Chicago-Style Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Hailing from a city known for its culinary pride, the Chicago dog is an all-beef frank served in a poppy seed bun. It’s a meticulously constructed work of art that famously forbids ketchup.
Signature Toppings:
- Yellow mustard
- Bright green pickle relish
- Chopped white onions
- Sliced tomatoes
- A dill pickle spear
- Sport peppers
- Celery salt
Every bite delivers a complex medley of textures and tastes.
3. The Sonoran Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Originating in the borderlands between the U.S. and Mexico—particularly in Arizona—the Sonoran hot dog is a fusion of flavors and influences.
Signature Toppings:
- Bacon-wrapped hot dog
- Pinto beans
- Fresh salsa
- Creamy mayonnaise
- Diced onions and jalapeños
- A drizzle of mustard or avocado spread
Its robust layers make it a favorite for those who crave a southwestern twist.
4. The Coney Island Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
No hot dog history is complete without a nod to Coney Island. First popularized by Charles Feltman and later by Nathan Handwerker, the Coney dog symbolizes American leisure and amusement.
Signature Toppings (varies by region):
- Hearty, mildly spiced chili
- Yellow mustard
- Diced onions
Coney Island’s influence can be found in “Coney” style hot dogs across the nation.
5. The Dodger Dog
History & Uniqueness:
A Los Angeles staple, the Dodger Dog is famously served at Dodger Stadium. Known for its size and flavor, it’s a favorite among baseball fans on the West Coast.
Signature Characteristics:
- A foot-long, all-beef frank
- Steamed or grilled (occasionally deep-fried for extra crispiness)
- Often served with simple toppings—allowing the quality of the sausage to shine
Its connection to sports makes it a cultural icon in Southern California.
6. The Chili Cheese Dog
History & Uniqueness:
A comfort food classic, the chili cheese dog elevates the humble frank by smothering it in a rich, savory chili and a generous helping of melted cheese.
Signature Toppings:
- Hearty, spiced chili
- Melted cheddar or American cheese
- Optional diced onions or jalapeños for extra kick
A staple at diners, ballparks, and backyard barbecues, this dog celebrates indulgence.
7. The Kraut Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Honoring its German roots, the Kraut dog is all about sauerkraut—the fermented cabbage that delivers tang and crunch with every bite.
Signature Toppings:
- Steamed hot dog with sauerkraut
- A squirt of mustard
- Caramelized onions
This simple yet flavorful option pays homage to early hot dog traditions.
8. The Slaw Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Marrying the crisp texture of coleslaw with the savory bite of a hot dog, the Slaw Dog offers a refreshing twist that’s particularly popular in parts of the South.
Signature Toppings:
- Creamy, tangy coleslaw
- A drizzle of spicy mustard or barbecue sauce
Its contrast of temperatures and textures makes it a favorite among those who like a little extra crunch.
9. The Kosher Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Reflecting the traditions of New York’s Jewish communities, kosher hot dogs are made exclusively from high-quality beef and adhere to strict dietary laws.
Signature Characteristics:
- A focus on purity and quality
- Typically served with mustard, sauerkraut, or even just on a steamed bun
This version stands as a testament to the blending of culinary and cultural heritage.
10. The Washington, D.C. Half-Smoke
History & Uniqueness:
Although not a “dog” in the strictest sense, the half-smoke has become a D.C. institution. Spicier and coarser than a regular frank, it’s famously served at Ben’s Chili Bowl.
Signature Toppings:
- Spicy chili (with an extra kick)
- Diced onions
- A blend of mustard and hot sauce
Its unique texture and robust flavor have earned it a cherished spot in the nation’s capital.
11. The Footlong Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
For those with a heartier appetite, the footlong hot dog offers a longer, more indulgent version of the classic frank.
Signature Characteristics:
- Extended length for a meatier experience
- Often featured at sports venues and fairs
- Fully customizable toppings
Its size makes it a fun and filling option at many American gatherings.
12. The Spicy Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Spice aficionados will appreciate the Spicy Hot Dog—a version that adds a fiery kick with zesty ingredients and bold sauces.
Signature Toppings:
- Hot mustards or spicy sriracha
- Fresh or pickled jalapeños
- Optional pepper jack cheese or a spicy relish
Perfect for those who want their meal to pack a punch.
13. The Michigan Coney Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Distinct from its Coney Island counterpart, the Michigan Coney Dog is a regional favorite in the Great Lakes area, blending chili dog elements with local tastes.
Signature Toppings:
- A distinctive, sometimes slightly sweeter chili
- Yellow mustard
- Finely diced onions
This version reflects Michigan’s regional palate and remains a local favorite.
14. The Los Angeles-Style Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Beyond the Dodger Dog, Los Angeles boasts inventive hot dog creations influenced by its diverse culinary scene.
Signature Toppings:
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Fresh salsa or pico de gallo
- Unconventional touches like citrus slaws or even kimchi
These dogs celebrate West Coast fusion and creativity.
15. The Barbecue Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Marrying the smoky goodness of barbecue with the all-American hot dog, the Barbecue Dog offers a Southern twist on a classic favorite.
Signature Toppings:
- Tangy barbecue sauce
- Crispy fried onions or coleslaw
- Often served on a lightly toasted bun
Ideal for backyard cookouts and summer festivals, it brings a bit of southern comfort to every bite.
16. The Fusion Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Reflecting America’s evolving food landscape, the Fusion Dog is a modern take that incorporates international ingredients and inventive flavor pairings.
Signature Toppings:
- Kimchi or pickled vegetables
- Sriracha-infused slaws
- Unconventional sauces like miso mayo or curry ketchup
This dog epitomizes culinary innovation, appealing to adventurous eaters.
17. The Gourmet Artisanal Dog
History & Uniqueness:
For foodies, the Gourmet Artisanal Dog transforms the humble hot dog into a refined culinary experience, made with premium, often locally sourced ingredients.
Signature Toppings:
- Exotic mustards (whole-grain or truffle-infused)
- Fresh, seasonal vegetables or microgreens
- Specialty cheeses or a drizzle of balsamic reduction
Found in upscale food trucks or boutique eateries, this version is as much about presentation as it is about taste.
18. The New England Lobster/Chowder Dog
History & Uniqueness:
Inspired by coastal New England’s seafood traditions, this innovative hot dog incorporates local flavors for a maritime twist.
Signature Toppings:
- A drizzle of lobster bisque or clam chowder
- Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon
- A sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning
This creation pays homage to the region’s rich coastal heritage.
19. The Cuban-Influenced Hot Dog
History & Uniqueness:
In cities like Miami where cultural fusion is celebrated, the Cuban-Influenced Hot Dog offers tropical, zesty flavors reflecting Latin American heritage.
Signature Toppings:
- Sweet and sour pickles or relish
- A citrus-infused mustard
- Often served on a pressed or toasted bun for extra crunch
It’s a delicious blend of traditional American street fare with a Caribbean twist.
20. The Corn Dog
History & Uniqueness:
A fairground favorite with deep roots in American summertime, the Corn Dog is a hot dog dipped in a sweet cornmeal batter and deep-fried to golden perfection.
Signature Characteristics:
- Served on a stick for easy, on-the-go snacking
- Typically accompanied by mustard or ketchup for dipping
- A playful, kid-friendly treat that’s equally adored by adults
It embodies American innovation in snack foods—simple, fun, and utterly delicious.
21. The Polish Boy
History & Uniqueness:
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, the Polish Boy is a hearty creation born from the city’s rich Polish immigrant heritage. Although it centers on a robust Polish sausage (often kielbasa) rather than a traditional hot dog, its unique assembly has firmly placed it within the hot dog family of American street food.
Signature Toppings:
- A grilled or fried Polish sausage or kielbasa
- Crispy French fries nestled inside the bun
- Creamy, tangy coleslaw
- A drizzle of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce
This substantial sandwich is celebrated for its delightful mix of textures and flavors—a satisfying crunch from the fries paired with the savory, juicy sausage and the refreshing coleslaw, all enhanced by the rich barbecue sauce.
Conclusion
From the tangy sauerkraut and mustard of New York to the fusion flavors of modern Los Angeles—and not forgetting the bold, hearty Polish Boy of Cleveland—the hot dog in America is far more than a sausage in a bun. It’s a living testament to immigrant ingenuity, regional pride, and the ever-evolving American palate.
Whether you prefer your hot dog loaded with chili and cheese, wrapped in bacon, or dressed in gourmet finery, each bite tells a story of cultural fusion and culinary creativity. Enjoy your journey through America’s diverse hot dog landscape—and don’t forget to give the Polish Boy a try for a truly unique taste of Cleveland’s rich food tradition!
