Post Overview: Where to find the best hot dogs in NYC
I won’t argue that pizza is the number one “must try” food in New York City, but number two? That’s debatable.
Some might say bagels, other folks might argue cheesecake, but me? I’m leaning hot dogs. According to the internet a New York hot dog is topped with sauerkraut, spicy brown mustard and onions.
But if I’m being frank (pun intended) the best hot dogs in New York City are customized to your liking. Whether you like ’em plain or brimming with toppings, it doesn’t matter. All you have to do is try one.
And lucky for you this article will cover all the quintessential, best hot dogs in NYC. If you’re not hungry for some good old fashioned junk food, you will be after reading this!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Hot Dogs in NYC
#12. Fulton Hot Dog King
The first joint on this list of the best hot dogs in NYC takes us into Brooklyn, and it checks all the boxes.
New York City hot dogs are meant to be quick and inexpensive for locals with places to be, and Fulton Hot Dog King says “I got you.” Incredibly, the neighborhood staple has been feeding New Yorkers since 1914!
Prices are more than reasonable, the hot dogs start at $2.50. There’s also a vast menu, selling items like knishes, burgers and falafel.
And if you find yourself with enough down time to stop and enjoy your meal consider snagging one of the colorful outdoor tables. There’s a ton of foot traffic in the area so it’s ripe for people watching.
Address: 472 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#11. Dyckman Dogs
Dyckman Dogs is way up in Inwood, but trust me when I say the trip is worth it. The shop is stone’s throw from the subway station, so the trip really doesn’t feel very long.
The reason I highly recommend Dyckman Dogs? The happy hour deal is amazing. Monday through Friday between 4 and 7PM you can enjoy $1 NYC hot dogs with the purchase of a beer. It’s like college all over again.
Outside of the happy hour time frame you can enjoy a slew of creative New York City hot dogs for under $10. That might seem steep, but these dogs are generously loaded and the menu is full of original concoctions.
My two cents? The Hawaiian dog is too good to pass up. Topped with cabbage, grilled pineapple, bacon, pink sauce, and scallions you’ll be licking your fingers in between each bite.
Address: 105-A Dyckman St, New York, NY 10040
#10. Carnigie John’s
There’s a ton of hot-dog carts peppered throughout Central Park (and they’re more than serviceable) but only two blocks away on 57th Street is a hot dog joint that takes it a step further.
Carnigie John’s is a sandwich cart that makes quality NYC hot dogs in a super convenient location. The cart is on the corner of 7th Avenue and 57th street making it an easy destination before or after visiting the park.
The dogs are only inexpensive and appetizing, which is all you can really ask for. Besides the classic New York City hot dogs Carnegie John’s also sells kebabs, falafels and burgers.
Address: 7th Ave &, W 56th St, New York, 10011
#9. Schaller’s Stube Sausage Bar
Restaurants in New York City sell food inspired by a variety of different places of origin. Schiller Stube’s is modeled after food carts in Berlin, and they make one of the best hot dogs in NYC.
The joint is only big enough to fit the essentials. There’s a counter where you can order, but not much else.
These aren’t the cheapest hot dogs in NYC, but they’re also not run of the mill boring ones either. The Classic is a bratwurst with mustard and sauerkraut for $9, which are all top-quality.
The Upper East Side eatery also sells a slew of other small but comforting bites. Mac and cheese, chicken sandiwches and pretzels are all par for the course.
Address: 1652 2nd Ave New York, NY 10028
#8. Santa Salsa
If you’ve never had Venezuelan food you’re missing out, and Santa Salsa is a great introduction. The restaurant also sells some of the best hot dogs in NYC, most with a South American twist.
For example let’s look at the namesake hot dog, the Santa Salsa. Made with bacon, fried cheese, avocado, onions, cabbage and more – it’s a doozy.
There’s seven total combinations you can choose from, including one of which is vegan. The creative New York City hot dogs are a good change of pace from traditional dogs, and trust me when I say you’ll be stuffed.
Address: 234 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237
#7. Bobbi’s Italian Beef
A true gem in the Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, Bobbi’s Italian Beef is a throwback to the days when you slide into a well worn, smooth booth and chow down. Ironically though, it’s a relatively new spot.
The simple joint makes simple food that will have you itching for more. They make a slew of sandwiches, a few personal pizzas and of course – some of the best hot dogs in NYC.
There are six total style of dogs to choose from. The Chicago dog is a hot-commodity but the Italian Stallion is what you really want. There’s some well deserved sticker shock ($20) but the Polish sausage is topped generously with Italian beef in a magnificent union.
Address: 228 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
#6. Frankel’s Delicatessen & Appetizing
What can I say about Frankel’s Deli that hasn’t been said before? Locals have been singing their praises for years and I’m not about to stray.
Offering all the standard fixings of a typical Jewish deli, Frankel’s bagels & lox sets them apart from the competition. Don’t immediately write off the hot dogs though, they’re worth considering.
For $5 you can order one of the best hot dogs in NYC. It comes with an all beef hot dog, a healthy serving of mustard and delectable sauerkraut.
If you have a more serious appetite you can also order the “Recession Special” which is two of the aforementioned New York City hot dogs with a drink for $10.99.
Address: 631 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
#5. Dog Day Afternoon
Old school and inviting, Dog Day Afternoon is a hot dog shop just a few blocks north of Brooklyn’s Prospect Park.
The main-course is a Chicago style hot dog, which is one of the best in NYC. Diced onions, yellow mustard, relish, a pickle spear, tomatos, peppers, and celery salt are a nifty combination that make some real magic happen.
Dog Day Afternoon also makes a vegan version of the Chicago dog as well as a vegan chili cheese dog. Folks with dietary restrictions will be glad to know they can still enjoy some of the best hot dogs in NYC!
Address: 266 L, Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215
#4. Katz’s Deli
Omitting Katz Deli is one of the few restaurants I take every single one of my out of town guests to. This cafeteria-style deli has been serving New Yorkers since 1888 and is one of the most iconic restaurants in NYC.
The interior walls are adorned with photos of celebrities that can’t resist the mile high thick-cut pastrami sandwiched between rye. The exterior walls are adorned with long lines of locals and tourists, eager to try one of the most popular restaurants in the Lower East Side.
Although the Katz is a famous sandwich shop, they also have respectable NYC hot dogs.
The biggest challenge while visiting Katz Deli (apart from the long lines and crowds) is knowing how to navigate the ordering system, but I’m here to help.
How to order a (life-changing) NYC hot dog at Katz Deli
You will be handed a ticket upon entering Katz, put it in your pocket and head to the ordering line. One of the folks behind the counter will call you over and ask you what you’d like. Tell them your order and hand them your ticket (they’ll write down what you ordered).
When your masterpiece of a sandwich is completed you’ll have two options: find a table or order drinks/sides. If you’d like to order drinks and sides (like fries) head to the left-most counter and place your order (they’ll also ask for your ticket).
After finishing your meal you will need to pay (using the ticket) at the counter by the door with the large “cashier” sign. When your bill is settled you can make your way out by handing your paid ticket over to the person working the front. This is how you can enjoy one of the best restaurants in the Lower East Side.
Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
#3. Nathan’s Famous
Arguably one of the most famous New York City hot dog brands, Nathan’s Famous was founded on Coney Island in 1916.
Over the course of the last century the company has managed to pepper carts all across the city. They have solid footing in many of the popular tourist areas so odds are you’ll be able to give them a try.
Since it’s a hot dog specific company there’s many iterations and toppings to choose from. At the end of the day though, they’re not gourmet – just quick and appetizing.
If you visit New York City in July you can even go out to see Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on the Fourth of July. Sponsored by Nathan’s since the 1970’s, folks stuff their faces with some of the best hot dogs in NYC in the name of competitive eating and glory.
Address: Multiple Locations in New York City
#2. Crif Dog
Crif Dogs, a creative hotdog shop, is one of the best late-night food spots in NYC.
Sure you can order your classic ketchup and mustard dogs here but true foodies know that one topping is never enough. At Crif Dogs expect to find combos like bacon-wrapped hotdogs with fried eggs and cheese or with pineapple, teriyaki and scallions.
The best part is that the NYC hot dogs aren’t just fun, they’re actually good! It’s definitely a step up from your typical food cart, and always hits the spot late at night.
Fun fact: There is a speakeasy attached to this unassuming hotdog shop called Please Don’t Tell. Step inside the phone booth and call the number on the sign and enjoy a fun night of cocktails and hotdogs!
Address: 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009
#1. Gray’s Papaya
If you’re looking for cheap eats, another affordable restaurant near Central Park is the iconic Gray’s Papaya hotdog shop.
The no frills, reliable shop has been churning out hot dogs in NYC since 1973. Whether you’re swinging by because you’re hungry, bored or broke — Gray’s will welcome you with open arms.
The joint is so good it was one of the late Anthony Bourdain’s favorites. Since they’re so affordable they’re not necessarily artisanal or creative, they’re just solid NYC hot dogs.
Address: 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
Quick recap of the Best Hot Dogs in NYC
- Gray’s Papaya
- Crif Dog
- Nathan’s Famous
- Katz’s Deli
- Dog Day Afternoon
- Frankel’s Delicatessen & Appetizing
- Bobbi’s Italian Beef
- Santa Salsa
- Schiller Stube’s
- Carnegie John’s
- Dyckman Dogs
- Fulton Hot Dog King
New York City Hot Dogs (Helpful Map)
And there you have it friends, the best spots for a NYC hot dog. As always, don’t hesitate to let us know if we missed anything.
Cheers!
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