Did you know that Americans are expected to consume 150 million hot dogs on July 4? The sausage — with or without a bun — is practically synonymous with Independence Day, summertime, and baseball games (R.I.P. Dollar Dog Nights, we still think of you). While Philly is better known for cheesesteaks and hoagies, there are plenty of spots to grab a hot dog in the city.
Ortlieb’s
847 N. 3rd St.
Hot dogs are the only food on the menu at this Northern Liberties bar. Ortlieb's serves up all-beef maplewood smoked dogs with options ranging from the Pickle Dog (classic snap dog on a pickle bun) to the Devil Dog (pickled jalapeño, onion, tomato, cheese whiz, and housemade hot sauce). Don’t eat meat? No worries — there are vegan versions of all the beef options.
The bar is currently running a “15 Dogs in 15 Days” series. A different speciality dog is available each day now until National Hot Dog Day on July 15. There will be a party from noon until midnight to celebrate the holiday.
Lucky’s Last Chance
Multiple Locations
Lucky’s is popular for its award-winning burgers, but don’t sleep on the hot dogs. You can go with an original Lucky’s Chili Cheese Dog, a Good Ol’ Dog (filled with smoked pulled pork, house slaw, and mustard BBQ sauce), or the aptly named Stinker (sauerkraut, fried onions, garlic aioli, and sharp provolone).
For July only, have a taste of Hawaii with the Kahuna Dog, which includes bacon, American cheese, grilled pineapple, diced jalapeños, and housemade teriyaki sauce.
Loco Pez
Multiple Locations
Loco Pez has a robust Mexican food menu with tacos, burritos, and other favorites. If you turn your attention to El Menu Vaquero (the cowboy menu), consider grabbing the street dog. This bacon-wrapped dog is complete with beans, pico de gallo, jalapeños, ketchup (yes, ketchup belongs on hot dogs, naysayers!), mayo, mustard, and cheese.
Royal Tavern
937 E. Passyunk Ave.
The South Philly restaurant is shining a spotlight on hot dogs with its annual "Dog Days of Summer" event. The month-long series features a weekly rotating menu. Week one is themed around American classics, such as the Chicago Dog and Detroit Coney. Veggie hot dogs will also be available. You can track your progress with a punch card, and if you have a hot dog concept that you think is the top dog, submit it as “Best in Show” for the final day of the event.
Looking for more barbecue favorites? Check out our list of local barbecue restaurants.
