From boardwalk legends to bacon-wrapped fever dreams, New York City’s hot dog scene is as iconic and diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re chasing old-school street eats or new-age twists, here are nine unforgettable spots to get your hands on the city’s best hot dogs.
Gray’s Papaya – Upper West Side
This no-frills, 24/7 corner stop has been an NYC institution since the ’70s, beloved for its natural-skinned grilled franks and legendary “Recession Special”—two hot dogs and a tropical drink (try the papaya or coconut). It’s fast, cheap, and packed with flavor. Locals swear by the chili or cheese add-ons, especially after a long night out or during a classic New York lunch break.
Nathan’s Famous – Coney Island
The birthplace of the Coney Island hot dog, Nathan’s has served up snappy dogs and crinkle-cut fries since 1916. The boardwalk location oozes nostalgia, especially during its famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest. Grab a classic frank with sauerkraut or cheese sauce, wander along the sand, and taste a bite of New York food history—greasy fingers and sea breeze included.
Crif Dogs – East Village
Deep-fried, bacon-wrapped, and unapologetically weird, Crif Dogs is a late-night favorite in the East Village. Known for topping its dogs with everything from pineapple to fried eggs, this spot leans hard into creative chaos. The B.L.T. Dog—a bacon-wrapped frank with lettuce, tomato, and mayo—is a standout. Bonus: there’s a hidden speakeasy, Please Don’t Tell, accessible through an old-school phone booth inside.
Dominick’s Hot Dog Truck – Midtown & Queens
A street food legend on wheels, Dominick’s has dished out quick, snappy hot dogs to busy New Yorkers for years. Parked in high-traffic corners of Midtown and Queens, this beloved truck is known for its natural-casing franks and lightning-fast service. Regulars go fully loaded with mustard, sauerkraut, onions, and relish—perfect when you’re on the move and need a classic NYC bite.
Papaya King – Upper East Side
Before Gray’s, there was Papaya King—serving up grilled franks and frothy tropical drinks since the 1930s. With its retro flair and bright signage, this Upper East Side favorite is a hot dog pioneer. The winning move? A classic frank paired with their signature papaya drink. It’s a simple combo that’s stood the test of time and still delivers sweet, salty satisfaction with every bite.
Schaller’s Stube Sausage Bar – Yorkville
Tucked behind a historic German butcher shop, this walk-up sausage bar adds a gourmet twist to NYC’s dog scene. The vibe is European street food meets Upper East Side cool, with offerings like cheddar-stuffed sausages and currywurst-style franks. The standout is their currywurst dog—smothered in curry ketchup and bursting with flavor. It’s a nod to Berlin with a New York edge.
Santa Salsa – Bushwick, Brooklyn
This late-night Venezuelan joint feels more like a dance party than a hot dog stop, complete with salsa beats and neon vibes. The dogs here are wild: bacon-wrapped, drowned in guasacaca (avocado sauce), and topped with crushed potato chips. The fully loaded Venezuelan dog is messy, crunchy, and unforgettable—perfect after a night of bar hopping or dancing through the Brooklyn streets.
Dog Day Afternoon – Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn
A love letter to Chicago in the heart of Brooklyn, Dog Day Afternoon serves true-to-form Vienna beef dogs in a cozy, kitschy space. The Chicago dog arrives on a poppy-seed bun and checks every box—neon relish, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. Ketchup is strictly forbidden. It’s authentic, nostalgic, and perfect for Midwestern transplants or curious locals seeking a bite of the Windy City.
Mile End Deli – Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Blending Jewish deli tradition with creative flair, Mile End Deli’s hot dog is a griddled all-beef beauty topped with tangy sauerkraut and sweet maple mustard. This Greenpoint staple is more than a sandwich spot—it’s a comfort food haven with heart. The hot dog is unpretentious but elevated, offering that perfect balance of salty, savory, and sweet in every bite.
