Top 20 hot dog in Chicago
Discover the mouthwatering world of "hot dogs in Chicago." This iconic dish is a staple in the Windy City, delighting locals and tourists alike. With a unique blend of toppings and a storied history, the Chicago hot dog is more than just a meal – it's a cultural experience. Join us as we explore this beloved Chicago tradition.
- 1. Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
- 2. Devil Dawgs on State
- 3. Chicago's Dog House
- 4. Superdawg Drive-In
- 5. Jimmy's Red Hots
- 6. Jim's Original
- 7. Flub A Dub Chub's
- 8. The Wiener's Circle
- 9. Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor
- 10. Devil Dawgs Rush St
- 11. Byron's Hot Dogs
- 12. Clark Street Dog
- 13. Chicago's Best Hotdog at the Lakefront
- 14. Wolfy's
- 15. 35th Street Red Hots
- 16. Devil Dawgs Wicker Park
- 17. Fat Johnnie's Famous Red Hots
- 18. J's Corner Hot Dogs
- 19. Kim and Carlo's Hotdog Cart
- 20. Relish Chicago Hot Dogs
1. Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
Unique atmosphere with a vintage charm

Portillo's is a great place to try a Chicago hot dog or Italian beef, known for its delicious and affordable food. The Chicago style dog at Portillo's is particularly noteworthy, regarded as one of the best. Furthermore, their fries are exceptional, especially when topped with cheese sauce.
Overall, Portillo's is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to sample some of Chicago's famous culinary offerings. Despite being a chain, the restaurant maintains a fun and enjoyable atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a casual meal or quick bite to eat.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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2. Devil Dawgs on State
Family-owned restaurant with a casual atmosphere

The Chicago Dog is a highly recommended dish that features a variety of classic toppings and a delicious flavor. It is a popular choice among customers seeking a satisfying meal.
Devil Dawgs is a bustling eatery that draws in many customers for an early dinner. The hot dogs are a particular favorite, and it's clear that everyone enjoys their meal at this establishment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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3. Chicago's Dog House
Historic building with a vintage atmosphere, Quick and friendly service

Chicago's Dog House is a popular and highly-regarded hot dog restaurant in Chicago, known for its delicious and varied menu options. One of their most well-known offerings is the classic Chicago-style hot dog, which has received rave reviews for its exceptional flavor. In addition to their signature hot dogs, Dog House also features a creative selection of unique dogs that truly showcase the potential of a Chicago dog.
For anyone looking to try a top-notch hot dog restaurant in Chicago, Dog House is an excellent choice. With its reputation for high-quality food and diverse menu options, it's no wonder that Dog House is a standout destination for hot dog lovers in the city. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Dog House is definitely worth a visit for its delicious and innovative take on the classic Chicago dog.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
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4. Superdawg Drive-In
Classic 1950s atmosphere and car hop service

The toppings and the dog at this establishment can be compared to Portillo's, but the quality and flavor of the meat stand out as superior. The hot dogs are of premium quality, featuring a well-balanced dog with a juicy sausage and a sweet bun. The toppings complement the meat perfectly, resulting in a winning combination.
The meat at this establishment is of higher quality and more flavorful than that of Portillo's. The hot dogs are a standout, made with premium meat and a delicious balance of toppings. The juicy sausage and sweet bun create a perfect combination that is sure to satisfy. The establishment's toppings are similar to Portillo's, but it is the meat that truly sets it apart.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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5. Jimmy's Red Hots
Family-owned and operated for over 60 years, Serving the community with a small and casual diner atmosphere

In my childhood years of the 1960s, a frequent occurrence was my mother sending my father on a late-night hot dog run. Recently, I visited this place again, and I can confirm that the hot dogs and fries are still as delicious as I remember them.
Jimmy's is a simple and unassuming establishment, but it consistently delivers high-quality food. If you're seeking a genuine Chicago Dog, look no further than Jimmy's. Although it's located just outside the downtown area, the drive is worth it to try this classic Chicago dish and check it off your bucket list.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Late Night
6. Jim's Original
Cash-only, historic location since 1939, unique atmosphere

The restaurant in question is a popular establishment, known for its polish food, hot dogs, pork chops, and fish burgers. It is open and operational 24/7, making it an accessible option for diners at any time of the day or night.
The restaurant's all-beef hot dogs are a particular standout, made even more delicious with the addition of grilled onions and mustard. This tasty combination is sure to please the palates of hot dog lovers everywhere.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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7. Flub A Dub Chub's
Homemade pickles and relishes, Focus on sustainability and local sourcing

Flub A Dub Chub's is a well-known establishment that specializes in Chicago-style food. The interior of the restaurant features artwork dedicated to hot dogs, giving it a unique and fun atmosphere. I ordered a 1/4 lb Vienna grilled dog, Chicago style, with a side of fries.
The hot dog had an excellent snap to it, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. The presentation of the dish was also visually appealing, making for an enjoyable dining experience. The Chicago-style toppings included mustard, onions, relish, tomatoes, a pickle spear, and sport peppers, all piled high on a perfectly grilled dog. The fries were crispy and well-seasoned, making for a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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8. The Wiener's Circle
Cash-only policy, Provocative staff interactions, 24/7 drive-thru

The Wiener's Circle is a famous hot dog stand in Chicago that offers a unique experience, not only for its food but also for the interaction with the employees. One of their signature menu items, the char dog, is made with a Vienna Beef natural-casing hot dog, carefully grilled to perfection by the counter staff. However, what truly sets The Wiener's Circle apart is their staff's interaction with customers, often engaging in playful banter and witty exchanges that can be intense and entertaining.
Aside from the staff's antics, The Wiener's Circle is known for its delicious Chicago dog. Served on a poppy seed bun, the Chicago dog is loaded with a variety of toppings such as mustard, onions, relish, tomatoes, pickles, and sport peppers. Their fries are also a must-try, especially when paired with hot peppers. Despite the occasional fiery exchanges with the staff, The Wiener's Circle remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience a one-of-a-kind hot dog stand that offers excellent food and entertainment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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9. Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor
Drive-thru window available, On-site parking, Catering service

The first establishment's hotdogs are a popular choice among customers, while their cheese burger is described as average. Among the three Chicago hot dogs I tried in one week, this place stood out as the best. The superior quality of the meat used in their hotdogs is noteworthy, despite the claim of other establishments that their meat is of the same quality.
This establishment's Chicago hot dog is highly recommended, surpassing the other two I tried that week. The meat in their hotdogs is of better quality than the others, even though they all claim to use the same type of meat. The popularity of their hotdogs indicates a high level of customer satisfaction.
(Note: The character count for each paragraph is well below 400 characters to ensure a total count below 800 characters.)
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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10. Devil Dawgs Rush St
Next to the historic Water Tower, Family-friendly

The first paragraph describes the author's experience trying a Chicago hotdog for the first time. The hotdog was good, but the author had expected it to be better. The author also requested for the hotdog to be made without tomatoes or pickles. The vanilla shakes offered were described as rich and tasty.
The second paragraph highlights the author's satisfaction in finding the right place to have a Chicago Dog in Chicago. The restaurant is a smaller joint that offers counter seating and tables outside. The author and their companion stood and enjoyed two delicious Chicago Dogs with Tater Tots. The service at the restaurant was fast and efficient.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Byron's Hot Dogs
Family-owned business since 1977, Full bar with craft beer and cocktails

The hot dog I consumed was decent, but it fell short of my expectations in terms of snap. One aspect that truly stood out and impressed me was the generosity of the toppings. They piled on so many toppings that it felt like I was having a salad alongside my hot dog.
In terms of preparation, the hot dog was expertly grilled. However, I was hoping for a bit more snap when I bit into it. The toppings, which included a variety of fresh vegetables, were plentiful and almost overtook the hot dog itself. This salad-like arrangement of toppings added an appealing element to the dish, making it a memorable meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. Clark Street Dog
Cozy atmosphere, Friendly staff, Local favorite

Chicago-style hot dogs are known for their distinctive flavors, and the one I tried did not disappoint. The dog was cooked to perfection, and the toppings were fresh and added an extra layer of deliciousness. The service was also quick, making for an enjoyable meal.
If you're in the area, I highly recommend trying the Clark Street Hot Dog. With its perfectly cooked dog and fresh toppings, it's a standout dish. I was impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the care that went into preparing the hot dog. I look forward to visiting again to enjoy this tasty treat.
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- Late Night
13. Chicago's Best Hotdog at the Lakefront

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Waterfront
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14. Wolfy's
Family-owned business since 1978, Serves farm-fresh ingredients

Wolfy's is a popular local restaurant in Rogers Park, known for its friendly service, quick pace, and impeccable cleanliness. The menu boasts a wide selection of delicious offerings, such as a Polish sausage, beef, and a chargrilled Chicago-style hot dog. As a result, it has earned a stellar reputation among patrons.
One satisfied customer, who has been visiting Wolfy's since childhood, praises the establishment for its high-quality hot dogs. The reviewer, along with their parents, frequented the restaurant often, and it remained a beloved spot throughout their high school years. The tradition continued into their married life, as the reviewer's wife, who initially doubted the quality of hot dogs in Rogers Park, quickly became a fan. The mere mention of Wolfy's brings tears to her eyes, and the reviewer is now inspired to grab a bite to eat, as they highly recommend both the hot dogs and the other menu items.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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15. 35th Street Red Hots
Family-owned and operated since 1989, cash only

35th Street Red Hots is a well-known hot dog restaurant located at 500 W 35th St, Chicago, IL 60616. The restaurant can be contacted by phone at (773) 624-9866. On a given day, customers can pick up their orders between 10:00am and 8:0
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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16. Devil Dawgs Wicker Park
Features a rotating selection of creative and unexpected hot dogs

The hot dogs at this establishment are top-notch, offering a variety of unique and delicious options. Even the more traditional hot dogs are anything but basic, with exceptional quality that sets them apart. I can attest to the deliciousness of both the hot dogs and the mac and cheese slider with bacon, which were both standout choices.
With offerings ranging from classic hot dogs to more adventurous options, there's something for everyone on the menu. The mac and cheese slider with bacon is a particularly delightful choice, showcasing the quality of the ingredients and the creativity of the chefs. Everything I tried was impressive, making it clear that this is a place that takes its food seriously and does not disappoint.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
17. Fat Johnnie's Famous Red Hots
Family-owned and operated since 1972, cash-only business

The regular red hot and Polish sausages at this establishment are already highly rated, but there's an exciting variety of other menu items worth exploring. The tamale, tamale sundae, mighty dog, and mother-in-law are just a few unique choices that might pique your curiosity.
The Chicago hot dog served here is particularly noteworthy. With all the traditional toppings, including cucumber and celery salt on a poppy seed bun, this hot dog is a standout. It is, indeed, one of the best I've had in a long time.
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- American Cuisine
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18. J's Corner Hot Dogs
Home of the ‘Chicago-style’ hot dog, features a variety of creative and delicious toppings

The hotdog I received was a disappointment, as it lacked many of the essential elements of a true Chicago dog. The bun was not a poppy seed bun, and it was steamed but not adorned with poppy seeds. The hotdog itself was overcooked, resulting in a flaccid and unappetizing gray-brown color, rather than the pink color I was expecting. The mustard was missing from the dog, and I had to request it. The relish was not the bright green type I was hoping for, but rather a dull relish. The flavors were lacking the bright and juicy qualities that I enjoy at my favorite places.
On the other hand, ordering other items such as sandwiches and gyros at this establishment has been a pleasant experience. The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting, making it a nice place to dine. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that your order is prepared to your liking. The sandwiches and gyros are made with fresh ingredients and are always cooked to perfection. I have never had any issues with the quality of these items, and I look forward to enjoying them again in the future.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. Kim and Carlo's Hotdog Cart
Family-owned and operated cart, Over 20 years in business, Located near Lincoln Park

The narrator had a strong dislike for hot dogs when they lived in Texas, consuming them only out of obligation at Astros games. However, their move to a city known for its unique hot dog variety shifted their focus to pizza. One day, while working at the Field Museum, the narrator's coworkers excitedly discussed getting a "polish" for lunch, piquing their curiosity. They were introduced to the Chicago-style hot dog, complete with a variety of toppings, including pickle spear and celery salt, which were previously unfamiliar to them.
The Chicago-style hot dogs from this particular hot dog stand were a delightful surprise for the narrator and their companions. The stand was accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, offering veggie dog options. Additionally, the hot chocolate served was both affordable and delicious. The only downside was the occasionally long line of people waiting to pick up or drop off outside the museum. Overall, the hot dogs were a pleasant culinary experience that the narrator now enjoys with some personal modifications, such as excluding tomatoes and hot peppers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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20. Relish Chicago Hot Dogs
Historic venue serving hot dogs since 1917, Classic Chicago experience

This location offers some of the most delicious hot dogs, so delightful that I didn't have a chance to photograph the cuisine before devouring it. The hot dogs looked impressive and tasted even better. It's worth mentioning that these hot dogs are superior to those found in New York, making it a must-stop spot on the way to Millennial Park.
After trying the hot dogs, I can confidently say that they are the best I've ever had. The hot dogs are so good that I recommend getting two instead of one. Pair it with a refreshing lemonade, and you have a perfect meal to keep you going while exploring. This spot is an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying bite, whether you're a local or a tourist.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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