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The Hottest Hot Dogs of Philly
The Kitchen
By Claire Beaumont, the Technique desk · United States · 5 min ·

The Hottest Hot Dogs of Philly

Loaded with chili, cheese, or relish, hand-dipped and fried in a cornmeal batter, or simply drizzled with ketchup and mustard, nothing screams summer like a hot dog fresh off the grill.

When you’re venturing out in search of this fan-favorite treat (whether it’s for your summertime fix or all year long), be sure to keep this list handy.

The PK Dog at The Pierogie Kitchen

Known for its sensational pierogies, the menu at this Roxborough hangout also serves up a crowd-pleasing hot dog. Be sure to come hungry if you plan to order PK Dog which comes with sauerkraut pierogies, Cooper sharp American cheese, bacon, and a hot dog, all served on a toasted roll.

Hot Dog with a Fishcake at Johnny Hot’s

This stand along the Delaware River can’t be missed. A treasure of the Philly community for over 60 years, one of its most celebrated menu items is considered a Philly throwback: a fried fishcake atop a hot dog (or sausage).

Tijuana Street Dog at La Chinesca

When you stop by this Mexicali fusion restaurant for a nightcap and a bite, its Tijuana Street Dog, made with bacon, chipotle mayonnaise, avocado verde, and pickled jalapenos, is a must-try on its late-night menu.

Hot Dog at Famous Franks A-Lot

There are classic hot dogs, and then there’s a hot dog from the infamous Famous Franks A Lot at Reading Terminal Market. For over forty years, they have been serving up gluten-free hot dogs (when you don’t factor in the bun) with classic condiments like mustard, relish, onions, or hot pepper relish.

Fancy Corn Dogs at Fox and Sons

At Fox and Sons, fancy corn dogs are the main attraction, and for good reason. Here, you can choose the classic route with a hand-dipped corn dog and your choice of meat (options include pork, beef, and even veggie dogs), or go big and order one of their dreamy creations, like the Sweet Potato Battered Corn Dog, topped with pork chorizo and drizzled with cilantro lime sour cream, or the Korean Style Corn Dog made with mozzarella and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Jumbo Pretzel Cheese Dog at Miller’s Twist

Those looking to try out a Philly favorite with a twist (pun intended), visit Miller’s Twists at the Reading Terminal Market. Here, they marry a cheese dog with the ever-popular soft pretzel, for a winning and fulfilling combination (known as a pretzel a roll-up).

Philly Dog Special at The Little Hot Dog Wagon

A new addition to the Fashion District, this Black woman-owned spot offers an array of beef, vegan, and turkey hot dogs, all made in-house and available with fun toppings (like barbecue baked beans, fried okra, and their homemade hot sauce). One of its most popular items, the Philly Dog Special, is topped with its special sauerkraut, chili, and melted cheese.

Street Dog at Loco Pez

For a hot dog with a little Mexican flair, try the Street Dog at Loco Pez, made with a bacon-wrapped all-beef hot dog loaded with refried beans, mayo, ketchup, mustard, cheese, pico de gallo, and pickled jalapeño peppers.

Dollar Dog at Misconduct Tavern

For a scrumptious no-frills hot dog experience (at a steal), grab the dollar dog special at one of Misconduct Tavern’s three locations. You can even add toppings like onions, relish, and sauerkraut for a few extra cents.

The Bagel Dog at Famous 4th Street Delicatessen

Generously portioned deli-style sandwiches aren’t the only reason to pay a visit to this Philly institution. On its menu of “Hotdogs and Knishes” is The Bagel Dog (its spin on a pig in a blanket), made with a Polish sausage wrapped in bagel dough.

Tuscan Tony at Paesano’s

A famed destination in the Italian Market known for its variety of satisfying sandwiches, also has a stellar take on the hot dog. Its Tuscan Tony sandwich is a Genoa salami-wrapped all-beef hot dog dressed with bolognese, sharp provolone, and hot peppers.

2nd Place Hot Dogs at Lucky’s Last Chance

With three locations across the city, Lucky’s Last Chance reigns supreme when it comes to the number of delectable hot dog options on its menu. Try the Last Chance Coney, its staple dog, topped with chili and shredded cheddar, or the Scorpion Dog made with mac and cheese and diced jalapenos.

Skyline Chili Dog at Second District Brewing

The Skyline Chili Dog at this South Philly brewery features a Nathan’s all-beef hot dog, Middle Eastern-spiced beef chili, shredded cheese, raw onion, and jalapeño peppers.

Any Hot Dog at Juana Tamale

Every week, diners can expect a tasty, culinary experimental hot dog from the hotspot with some of the best birria tacos in Philly. From their affordable $1 all-beef hot dogs (served every Phillies home game) to their bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper ripper dog — there’s something for everyone at this East Passyunk gem.

Key facts
  • Who: Philly · Hot Dog · Tijuana Street Dog · Reading Terminal Market
  • Money: $1

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