Experience 35 of the Tastiest Hot Dogs in NYC

If you are a New Yorker or have spent time in the Big Apple, you already know how magical its culinary scene is. Among the city’s many delights, hot dogs hold a special place. With National Hot Dog Day just around the corner on July 17th, we have compiled a list of 35 top spots across New York City’s five boroughs where you can savor the most delicious hot dogs.

Brooklyn: Hot Dogs in NYC

Lillistar

Indulge in a delicious hot dog at Lillistar, the rooftop bar in the Moxy Hotel in Williamsburg, where culinary creativity meets classic comfort food. For just $12.00, savor their gourmet hot dog, served on a soft potato bun and elevated with tangy harissa aioli and crunchy red cabbage slaw. Presented in a traditional foil pouch labeled “HOT DOG,” it comes with a unique twist—an unexpected straw for an unforgettable dining experience.

353 Bedford Ave—Williamsburg

Harlem Shake

Harlem Shake captures the spirit of Harlem with a blend of old-school charm and modern flair. Step into this vibrant eatery adorned with vintage posters and lively music that transports you back in time.

Specializing in mouthwatering burgers, crispy fries, and thick milkshakes, Harlem Shake’s menu offers a contemporary twist on classic American comfort food. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional cheeseburger or a veggie-friendly option, their diverse menu caters to every palate.

Among their offerings, the C-train Dog stands out with its savory toppings of sauerkraut, brown mustard, and onions, making it a standout choice for hot dog enthusiasts seeking a taste of authentic Harlem flavors right here in Brooklyn at their Park Slope location.

Harlem Shake offers a nostalgic yet modern approach to dining. This iconic eatery celebrates the essence of Harlem through its retro diner ambiance adorned with vintage posters and upbeat music that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

119 5th Avenue—Park Slope

Blue Collar Burger Williamsburg

Blue Collar, a beloved local burger chain, boasts cozy locations in Bushwick, Cobble Hill, and Williamsburg. Emphasizing American favorites beyond just burgers, their menu showcases hearty options like veggie burgers, crispy chicken tenders, and a variety of sides including golden fries, crispy tater tots, and addictive onion rings. Not limited to lunch and dinner, Blue Collar also satisfies breakfast cravings all day long, complemented by indulgent milkshakes.

Don’t miss out on their signature Beef Dog featuring a Hebrew National Beef Dog crowned with tangy kraut, priced irresistibly at just $5.

160 Havemeyer Street—Williamsburg

Santa Salsa

If you find yourself in Bushwick late at night and in need of a bite, head over to Santa Salsa. This lively dive bar offers a diverse menu featuring bar food, desserts, dinners, hamburgers, hot dogs, Latin American dishes, lunch options, Mexican cuisine, sandwiches, snacks, vegan and vegetarian fare, and Venezuelan specialties.

One unique touch: many of their dishes come topped with crunchy potato chips, including their renowned hot dogs. While the Pan con Queso and the Vegan Santa are both excellent choices, our top recommendation is the Perro con Todo—a juicy beef frankfurter nestled in a soft, pillowy bun and loaded with cabbage, onions, cheese, and a generous drizzle of mayo-heavy sauce.

234 Starr Street—Bushwick

Montague Diner

Nestled in Brooklyn Heights, Montague Diner offers a charming, brightly lit, walk-down experience that reimagines the classic diner. Here, hot dogs are served in pairs and are best enjoyed with a slight char for optimal flavor. These delightful franks come topped with caramelized onions, green sweet pickle relish, and sauerkraut, creating a symphony of tastes. For the ultimate experience, don’t skimp on any of the toppings, and be sure to add a generous dollop of mustard.

148 Montague Street—Brooklyn Heights

Frankel’s Delicatessen & Appetizing

Frankel’s Deli, a beloved local gem, offers all the cherished staples of a traditional Jewish deli, with their bagels and lox being a standout favorite. However, their hot dog is an absolute must-try. For just $5.50, you can savor one of New York City’s best hot dogs, featuring an all-beef frank generously topped with mustard and flavorful sauerkraut. If you’re in the mood to share, go for the “Recession Special,” which includes two perfectly cooked all-beef hot dogs with mustard and sauerkraut, plus a drink, all for $12.25.

631 Manhattan Ave—Greenpoint

Mile End Deli

Mile End Deli was founded to celebrate the beloved Jewish comfort foods of its creators’ childhoods while also introducing innovative culinary delights. Renowned for its Montreal-style smoked meat, Mile End also excels in putting a unique twist on New York classics, including its homemade hot dogs. This distinctive deli features signature smoked meats, hearty sandwiches, poutine, fresh whitefish salad, and more. Their griddled all-beef frank, topped with tangy kraut and drizzled with maple mustard, offers a delightful sweet-and-spicy flavor that sets it apart.

97A Hoyt Street—

Bonnie’s Grill

Bonnie’s Grill, a beloved Park Slope fixture, is known for its inviting atmosphere and warm hospitality. This cozy spot features a menu brimming with classic American favorites, including their famed burgers, flavorful wings, and robust sandwiches, all crafted from fresh, top-notch ingredients. A standout on the menu is their hot dogs, offered in pairs. Our top picks are the Chili Cheese Dog Beef, the Slope, and the Garfield. Each hot dog order comes with your choice of fries, salad, spicy coleslaw, or soup, with prices ranging from $14 to $16.

278 5th Avenue—Park Slope

Dog Day Afternoon

Dog Day Afternoon sets the bar high with its authentic Chicago dog, complete with specific dressing rules: kosher pickle spears, celery salt, yellow mustard, sport peppers, neon green relish, chopped raw onions, and tomatoes, all nestled in a poppy seed bun. This shop, inspired by a film shot on the same Brooklyn block, nails it.

In my opinion, the Windsor Terrace location of Dog Day Afternoon is the best. This cozy spot proudly displays a Vienna Beef diagram by the register, allowing you to verify your dog’s authenticity. The poppy seed bun is exceptionally soft and flavorful. Enjoying a Chicago dog with an orange whip while sitting on the sidewalk outside the restaurant is one of our favorite ways to spend a warm day.

266 L Prospect Park West—Windsor Terrace

Nathan’s Famous

Nathan’s Famous, established in 1916 on Coney Island, is a New York City hot dog institution. Over the past century, it has expanded its presence with carts scattered throughout the city’s bustling tourist spots, ensuring you’ll likely encounter one during your visit.

Specializing in hot dogs, Nathan’s offers a variety of iterations and toppings. While they may not be gourmet, they are consistently quick and delicious.

If you find yourself in New York City in July, do not miss Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on the Fourth of July. This iconic event, sponsored by Nathan’s since the 1970s, showcases competitive eaters devouring some of the city’s best hot dogs in a spirited quest for glory.

1310 Surf Avenue—Coney Island

Pete’s Clam Stop

Pete’s Clam Shop on Surf Avenue is a legendary spot on the boardwalk, renowned for its fried and raw clams, delectable soft-serve ice cream, and refreshing cold beers. This iconic eatery also serves quintessential New York City hot dogs, topped with grainy mustard and sauerkraut, which rival Nathan’s in their own unique way.

1320 Surf Avenue—Coney Island

Bobbi’s Italian Beef

Nestled in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, Bobbi’s Italian Beef offers a delightful blend of nostalgic charm and contemporary dining. This unassuming eatery is a haven for comfort food enthusiasts. Their menu boasts a variety of offerings, from hearty sandwiches and personal pizzas to standout hot dogs, celebrated as some of the finest in NYC.

Choose from six distinct dog styles, featuring a Polish sausage generously adorned with savory Italian beef, priced between $6 and $9—all served with tots. The unforgettable flavors here make it an essential culinary experience.

228 Smith Street—Cobble Hill

Two8Two Bar & Burger

Two8Two Bar & Burger offers a cozy retreat known for its gourmet burgers and artisanal hot dogs, complemented by a carefully curated selection of beers and craft cocktails. Among their specialties is the Boardwalk-style Hot Dog, featuring a substantial 1/4 lb “Shickhaus” frank that stretches about eight inches in length.

This signature dog can be enjoyed in various renditions, including the standout Two8Two dog, which comes loaded with roasted poblano chiles, cheddar cheese, and their distinctive Two8Two sauce. With prices ranging from $10.50 to $14, it is a culinary indulgence well worth the cost.

282 Atlantic Avenue—

Dragon Bay Bakery

Located in Sunset Park’s vibrant Chinatown, Dragon Bay Bakery is a multifaceted gem blending bakery delights, a casual lunch counter, and a cozy coffee shop atmosphere. Among their innovative offerings is the puff pastry-wrapped hot dog, notably the indulgent “golden hot dog.” This unique creation features a delightful blend of flavors, with a slightly sweet melted topping that’s so satisfying, that it could easily pass as a dessert.

Brennan & Carr

Since 1938, Brennan & Carr has been a beloved Brooklyn institution, renowned for its hearty and delicious fare. This historic eatery captures the essence of old New York with its legendary roast beef sandwiches.

The highlight of the menu is the “hot beef sandwich,” a tender, flavorful creation soaked in savory au jus. The restaurant’s no-frills, wood-paneled interior adds to its nostalgic charm, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors craving an authentic dining experience.

However, we can not overlook their hot dogs. For just $4.40, you can savor one of these delightful treats, perfectly complementing the classic offerings that Brennan & Carr is famous for.

3432 Nostrand Avenue—Midwood

Manhattan: Hot Dogs in NYC

Schaller’s Stube

When Ferdinand Schaller and Tony Weber opened their humble butcher shop in 1937, they aimed to serve the German immigrant community of Yorkville. Schaller & Weber quickly became the go-to-market for authentic cured meats and wursts reminiscent of their patrons’ homeland.

Today, nearly a century later, Schaller & Weber stands as a globally recognized emblem of quality and taste in German-style sausage and charcuterie. Under the leadership of third-generation wurst maker Jeremy Schaller, the establishment continues to thrive. The streetside counter offers a variety of delicious options, including cheddar brats, chicken brats, wieners, knackwursts, and bratwursts, with prices ranging from $9 to $17.

1652 Second Avenue—Upper East Side

Cowgirl

Established in 1989, Cowgirl has become a cornerstone of the West Village, offering a warm Texas welcome to everyone who walks through its doors. Known for its friendly service, mouth-watering food, and exceptional margaritas, Cowgirl has made its mark on the NYC community. Among its culinary highlights are the city’s finest corn dogs, perfectly battered and fried to golden perfection upon order.

519 Hudson Street—West Village

Jongo Rice Hot Dog

Jongo Rice Hot Dog brings a playful twist to street food with their delightful Korean rice dogs! This crispy, fun-to-eat treat, beloved in Korea, is now winning hearts here. Each hot dog is encased in a rice flour batter, lightly dusted with sugar, and topped with your choice of sweet or savory additions. Do not miss their Instagram-famous mozzarella cheese dog, a crowd favorite that’s as photogenic as it is delicious.

33 West 32nd Street—Midtown West

Katz’s Deli

Katz’s Deli, a beloved fixture since 1888, remains an iconic New York City eatery adored for its bustling cafeteria-style service and towering pastrami sandwiches on rye. Amidst walls adorned with celebrity photos, this legendary spot not only excels in sandwiches but also offers mouthwatering New York City hot dogs for just $4.95.

Navigating Katz’s lively atmosphere, with its notorious lines and crowds, is the main challenge for visitors.

Here is how to enjoy an unforgettable New York City hot dog experience at Katz’s:

• Upon entry, you will receive a ticket—keep it safe.
• Join the ordering queue and, when it is your turn, let the counter staff know your order and hand over your ticket.
• After your hot dog is prepared, you can decide whether to dine at a table or visit the nearby counter for a beverage and sides.
• Head to the cashier counter by the exit to settle your bill, where you will present your ticket for payment.
• As you leave, do not forget to hand your validated ticket to the front desk. Please keep in mind that losing your ticket incurs a $50 replacement fee

205 E Houston Street—Lower East Side

The Portrait Bar

Under the guidance of Bar Director and seasoned industry expert Darryl Chan, The Portrait Bar offers a sophisticated escape. Nestled in an elegant setting adorned with dark wood paneling and a curated art collection inspired by Italian villas, this intimate space exudes richness. Chan’s cocktail menu blends modern innovations with timeless classics, each crafted to evoke a unique sense of ambiance.

However, the real star here is their hot dog. Located within The Fifth Avenue Hotel, The Portrait Bar elevates the classic frankfurter with a gourmet twist. Served “au poivre” alongside crispy potatoes and pickled onions, this $20 creation epitomizes refined indulgence amidst the cocktail culture.

The Fifth Avenue Hotel [1 West 28th Street—

Dickson’s Farmstand

Nestled within Chelsea Market, Dickson’s Farmstand is more than just a neighborhood butcher shop—it is a haven for artisanal meats and hand-crafted charcuterie. Their commitment to quality is evident in every cut of beef, pork, lamb, and poultry sourced from small, family farms in upstate New York, chosen for their humane practices and superior flavor.

At this boutique butcher, you will find their prized hot dogs proudly displayed in the window. They offer two sizes: the classic house-made hot dog priced at $7.00, crafted from a blend of famous beef and pork smoked over hickory and apple wood. For those with a hearty appetite, we highly recommend the Jumbo hot dog—a substantial 10.5-inch version of their house-made delight, available for $10.50.

75 9th Avenue—Chelsea

NoMad Diner

Located in the vibrant heart of midtown Manhattan, NoMad Diner redefines classic diner fare with a blend of comfort and culinary innovation. Here, traditional favorites like pancakes and omelets share the spotlight with contemporary twists such as avocado toast, while Chef Fred Maurer and his team infuse every dish—from soups and salads to bagels, burgers, and banana splits—with a fresh, modern touch.

One standout not to miss is the $15.00 Arlo Dog at NoMad Diner, nestled within the lobby of the Arlo NoMad Hotel. This new-school diner creation features a buttery brioche bun filled with kimchi, kewpie mayo, and crispy fried shallots—a must-try for those seeking a deliciously inventive take on a classic hot dog.

11 East 31st Street—Midtown East

Gray’s Papaya

Look no further than Gray’s Papaya for budget-friendly bites near Central Park. Since 1973, this iconic spot has been a staple for New York hot dog enthusiasts. Located on the bustling corner of Broadway and 72nd Street, Gray’s Papaya offers no-frills, dependable fare: slender, all-beef franks nestled in a soft white bun, topped with your choice of sauerkraut, mustard, and stewed onions. While they may not be gourmet or avant-garde, these hot dogs are a quintessential taste of NYC’s street food scene.

 2090 Broadway—Upper West Side

Famous Eddie’s Hot Dogs

Introducing Famous Eddie’s Hot Dogs. Eddie Salguero has been a fixture at the corner of 9th and 33rd, serving up his renowned hot dogs with a touch of flair. His cart stands adorned with colorful signs that highlight specials like the zing dog, a savory delight packed with chili, onions, sauerkraut, and mustard. Eddie enthusiastically recommends the zing dog, and once you taste it, you will understand why. The hearty chili, sweet onions, and classic Sabrett hot dog combine to create a mouthwatering experience. Plus, all of Eddie’s hot dogs are priced at under $5, making them not only tasty but affordable.

411 9th Avenue—Chelsea

Brooklyn Diner

According to The New York Times, “the brooklyn diner hot dog is great. an excellent and snappy all-beef hot dog from a secret source weighs almost a pound…”

So why not indulge in the Brooklyn Diner’s renowned 15-bite all-beef frankfurter, expertly nestled inside a bun and topped with housemade juniper sauerkraut, served with a side of crispy French fries, priced at $23.95.

155 West 43rd Street—Midtown West

Rudy’s Bar & Grill

While I have not yet visited Rudy’s Bar & Grill myself, my friend Rose swears by it. Nestled in the heart of New York City, this legendary dive bar beckons patrons through its original, intricately carved wood door bearing the Rudy family name. Stepping inside feels like a journey back in time, evoking whispers of its rumored speakeasy origins in 1919, perhaps from the depths of Hell’s Kitchen.

Yet, Rudy’s true claim to fame is not just its nostalgic ambiance or the rustic charm of sawdust underfoot and chilled tap beer. It is the irresistible allure of free hot dogs, perfectly grilled and served simply with mustard—making it a budget-friendly delight not to be missed.

627 9th Avenue—

Crif Dog

For the last two decades, Crif Dogs has been an iconic fixture in the heart of the East Village. This quintessential New York hot dog spot does not just serve dogs—it serves up personalities as vibrant as the city itself. It embodies everything you love about New York: gritty yet high-quality, edgy yet inviting, and unmistakably hometown yet undeniably New York City. It is simply the best.

Crif Dogs stands out not only for its creative and playful hot dog offerings but also for their exceptional taste. Going beyond the typical street food experience, Crif Dogs consistently satisfies, making it a go-to for late-night cravings and beyond.

Crif Dogs is renowned for its unique approach to franks—deep-frying them Jersey-style, sometimes wrapping them in bacon for added decadence. The Good Morning dog, with its fried egg, melted cheese, and bacon blanket, is a crowd favorite, while their crispy tater tots add another layer of satisfaction to the experience.

113 St Marks Place—East Village

Kings of Kobe

Kings of Kobe, an American culinary haven, centers its menu around the exquisite Wagyu beef, renowned for its unparalleled quality and flavor. While celebrated for their sumptuous Wagyu steaks and burgers, the culinary artisans at Kings of Kobe infuse each creation with a touch of artistry. Every burger and steak is meticulously crafted to deliver a symphony of flavors that promise an unforgettable dining experience. Their steaks, complemented by a variety of house-made sauces, are designed to delight the palate and awaken the senses.

Their hot dogs, crafted from premium Wagyu beef, are not to be missed. Indulge in the Mango? Let’s Tango Hot Dog featuring an American Wagyu hot dog topped with mango-jalapeño relish, lime mayo, crispy onions, and applewood smoked bacon bits, priced at $17. Alternatively, savor the FDR Hot Dog—a Wagyu hot dog wrapped in applewood smoked bacon, fried to perfection, and served with crispy onions and royal fry sauce for $18. While these options are priced higher, the exceptional quality and flavors make them well worth the indulgence.

650 West 42nd Steet—

Dyckman Dogs

Head uptown to Dyckman Dogs in Washington Heights—you will not regret it, I assure you. Located just steps from the subway, the journey feels effortless. What makes Dyckman Dogs stand out? Their incredible happy hour offer is a game-changer.

Enjoy $1 NYC hotdogs with any beer purchase from Monday to Friday, between 4 and 7 PM at Dyckman Dogs. Beyond happy hour, their menu offers an array of creative NYC hot dogs that won’t break the bank. Each dog is generously topped with a variety of unique ingredients.

Our favorites include the “Hawaiian dog,” featuring cabbage, grilled pineapple, bacon, pink sauce, and scallions, as well as the “Capitaleño,” a grilled all-natural beef dog topped with sautéed cabbage, corn, chili, cheese sauce, ketchup, mayo, and potato sticks.

105-A Dyckman Street—Washington Heights

Queens: Hot Dogs in NYC

El Mercadito

El Mercadito Taqueria y Pizzeria offers an exhilarating culinary journey with each dish they serve, from their Mexican pizzas to their flavorful taquitos. More than just a restaurant, it’s an adventurous escape waiting to unfold. Their culinary narrative begins with their signature thin-crust pizzas, where fresh ingredients blend like paint on a canvas, creating unparalleled topping combinations. Their commitment to innovation shines through in their taquitos—smaller yet more flavorful 4.5″ tortilla pockets, a departure from the typical 6″ size found elsewhere.

Among their standout offerings are the Poblana Tortas, featuring hotdog sausage, Mexican chorizo, egg, and melted quesillo, and the hot dog quesadilla, crafted with freshly patted masa for an authentic touch.

84-02 Roosevelt Avenue—Jackson Heights

La Perrada de Chalo

For a distinctive fast-food experience infused with Colombian flair, La Perrada de Chalo offers a tantalizing array of dishes bursting with bold and unique flavors.

Begin your journey with their renowned hot dogs, where a fluffy bun cradles seasoned shrimp, creamy melted cheese, crunchy shredded chips, and a medley of sauces that enhance each bite with a delightful seafood twist.

Among our favorites is the Perro Caliente Mexicano, featuring cheese, hot sauce, assorted sauces, and crushed chips, providing a savory crunch. Equally tempting is the Perro Caliente Criollo, adorned with cabbage salad, pineapple, cheeses, sauces, and crushed chips, offering a tropical twist.

With options priced affordably between $4.15 and $10, La Perrada de Chalo promises a mouthwatering experience that won’t break the bank.

8312 Northern Boulevard—Jackson Heights

Prontito

Experience the vibrant flavors of Colombian street food at Prontito, a lively snack shop nestled in Elmhurst. Indulge in their signature hot dogs, where each bite reveals a symphony of flavors: from crispy bacon and crushed potato chips to fresh carrot-cabbage slaw, crumbled costeño cheese, pineapple sauce, and a medley of condiments including ketchup, mayonnaise, and salsa rosada. Topping off these culinary creations is the pièce de résistance: a skewered, hard-boiled quail egg that adds a touch of uniqueness to every bite.

Don’t miss their “super perro a la Mexicana,” featuring a bacon strip, guacamole, coleslaw, jalapeños, cheese, potato chips, Russian dressing, and pico de gallo. For something different, try the “Perro Hawaiano,” adorned with queso, salad, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pineapple, and salsa rosada, all topped with crispy bacon. And to complement these savory delights, indulge in their cholado—a refreshing drink with crushed ice, condensed milk, tropical fruits, and grated coconut—for a taste experience that’s truly over the top.

40-25 Forley Street—Elmhurst

Bronx: Hot Dogs in NYC

Liebman’s Kosher Deli

Liebman’s Kosher Deli has been a fixture on Johnson Avenue since 1953, amidst a landscape once dotted with over 100 Jewish delis in The Bronx. Founder Joe Liebman’s recipe for success was simple yet ambitious: provide exceptional quality food paired with warm, attentive service. Today, Liebman’s proudly upholds these traditions, standing as the sole remaining kosher deli in The Bronx with a rich history and enduring legacy.

Their signature Liebman’s Famous Frankfurter, priced at just $5, is a must-try. Topped with deli mustard, sauerkraut, sautéed onions, pickle relish, and ketchup, it’s the quintessential Bronx hot dog experience. Do not forget to complement it with their delicious potato salad for an extra dollar or coleslaw for another dollar.

552 West 235th Street—Bronx

Staten Island: Hot Dogs in NYC

Skippy’s Hot Dog

Head over to Skippy’s, a legendary hot dog truck on Staten Island, where you can savor their famous Wally Dog. Priced at $3.25, this mouthwatering creation comes topped with sauerkraut, cheese sauce, and a vibrant homemade chili.

Dawn, the heart and soul of Skippy’s, inherited the business from her parents and runs it with unwavering dedication. Despite managing single-handedly, she always finds a moment to greet you warmly. Be sure to pair your hot dogs with a refreshing cherry soda for the perfect experience.

1952 Hylan Blvd #1942—Staten Island

Red’s Hot Dog Stand

Red’s Hot Dog Stand has become a local institution known for its mouthwatering hot dogs and classic American fare. From timeless favorites like mustard and sauerkraut to adventurous creations, their menu caters to all tastes. Whether you prefer dining in, grabbing takeout, or having it delivered, Red’s ensures a convenient and enjoyable experience. Renowned for both flavorful hot dogs and exceptional service, it is a must-visit spot for a satisfying meal whenever you find yourself in the area!

2277 Authur Kill Road—Staten Island

Concluding 35 Must-Try Locations: Discover the Tastiest Hot Dogs in NYC

Navigating the vibrant hot dog scene of New York City unveils a tapestry of flavors, from timeless classics to innovative twists. Each bite tells a story of culinary heritage and creativity, making every hot dog stand a unique experience in itself. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a street-side vendor or the gourmet indulgence of a trendy eatery, hot dogs in NYC hot dogs offer something for every palate.

Next time you find yourself strolling the bustling streets of New York City, don’t miss the chance to dive into the vibrant world of hot dogs in NYC. From corner carts to gourmet eateries, July 17th, National Hot Dog Day, is the perfect opportunity to celebrate this beloved city tradition. Explore the rich history and diverse offerings of iconic hot dog spots, whether you are grabbing a quick bite on the go or indulging in a leisurely tasting tour of local favorites. Embrace the flavors that embody NYC’s unique food culture and make your visit an unforgettable culinary adventure!