New York City is known for many things, but one of its most popular culinary exports is the hot dog. From street vendors to upscale restaurants, hot dogs are a staple of New York cuisine. But with so many different types of hot dogs available, it can be hard to know what sets them apart.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of New York hot dogs. From classic Coney Island dogs to trendy gourmet varieties, we’ll explore the different types of hot dogs you can find in the city, learn about their history, and uncover what makes each one special. Whether you’re a native New Yorker or a curious visitor, get ready to indulge in some of the best hot dogs around.
The History of Hot Dogs in New York
New York is renowned for its hot dogs. Every year, millions of them are sold from carts and restaurants across the city. But, have you ever wondered about the history of hot dogs in New York?
The first hot dog stand in the world was opened in Coney Island, New York, by a German immigrant named Charles Feltman. He started selling hot sausages and rolls from a pushcart in 1867, and it soon became popular among beach-goers. He then opened a permanent stand in 1869, which eventually expanded into a restaurant that could seat 1,500 people. Feltman’s invention of the hot dog helped to establish New York City as the hot dog capital of the world. Today, there are countless variations of hot dogs in New York, which have come to reflect the city’s diverse culture.
Top 5 Classic Hot Dog Stands in New York
New York is home to a wide range of hot dog stands, but only few are truly iconic. Here, we’ve rounded up the top 5 classic hot dog stands in New York that you can’t miss.
First on the list is Nathan’s Famous, an institution in the world of hot dogs. Located in Coney Island, Nathan’s has been serving up their classic hot dogs since 1916. The hot dogs are made with a natural casing, giving them a satisfying snap when you bite into them. Don’t forget to try their famous crinkle-cut fries, too. Second on the list is Gray’s Papaya, a staple in the city with three locations in Manhattan. Gray’s Papaya offers a simple menu of delicious hot dogs and fresh juices, making it the perfect spot for a quick bite on the go. The hot dogs are served with sauerkraut, onion sauce, spicy brown mustard, and ketchup, giving them a classic New York flavor.
The Famous Nathan’s Hot Dogs in Coney Island
One of the most popular hot dog destinations in New York City is Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island. This iconic hot dog joint has been around since the early 1900s and is famous for its all-beef hot dogs served on a steamed bun. The original location, which is still standing today, is a nostalgic and charming spot for a meal before or after a visit to the nearby boardwalk and amusement park. Nathan’s hot dogs are served with toppings like sauerkraut, mustard, onion sauce, and ketchup, making them a customizable and delicious treat.
In addition to their classic hot dogs, Nathan’s also serves up a variety of other dishes like burgers, fries, and seafood. The restaurant has become such a popular destination that they now have locations throughout the country, but there’s something special about going to their original location in Coney Island. If you’re a hot dog lover visiting New York City, visiting Nathan’s Famous is a must-see attraction.
Vegan and Vegetarian Hot Dogs in New York
New York is known for its mouth-watering hot dogs, but not every meat lover is a fan of traditional hot dogs. The good news is that the city has a lot to offer, including vegan and vegetarian hot dogs. These hot dogs are crafted with soy protein, seitan, and/or tofu as substitutes for meat and offer a healthier and cruelty-free alternative for vegans and vegetarians.
Some of the most popular vegan and vegetarian hot dogs in New York can be found at Jumbo Vegan Dogs, which offers a variety of plant-based hot dogs, including Beyond Meat and Veggie Dogs. Another great choice is Good Catch, which has a 100% plant-based menu and serves its signature hot dogs with organic toppings. For those looking for a more classic flavor, Super Shack serves up a vegan hot dog with all the traditional toppings. Regardless of your preferences, New York has plenty of options to offer for those looking for a meatless hot dog.
Creative and Unconventional Hot Dogs in New York
New York is home to some of the most creative and unconventional hot dogs in the world. In addition to the classic all-beef hot dog with mustard and sauerkraut, there are several other versions that will tantalize your taste buds. For instance, there is the Fuku Dog, which is made with a spicy fried chicken sausage, and is served with pickled cabbage and a secret sauce.
Another unique offering is the Korean-style hot dog from Japadog, a Japanese street vendor that has been popping up in New York City. These hot dogs are wrapped in a variety of coatings, including panko breadcrumbs and topped with kimchi, wasabi mayo, and other flavorful condiments. With so many options available, it is no wonder that hot dogs are a beloved icon of New York cuisine, and will remain so for generations to come.
Gourmet Hot Dogs in New York’s High-End Restaurants
New York City is home to some of the finest restaurants in the world. These high-end eateries also bring a gourmet touch to the beloved hot dog. Chefs experiment with different toppings, sauces, and buns that elevate the humble hot dog to decadent heights.
At Daniel, a Michelin-starred restaurant on the Upper East Side, chef Daniel Boulud offers a $42 hot dog made with homemade brioche bun, truffle relish, and foie gras. At Eleven Madison Park, the famous hot dog is made with beef and pork sausage, topped with truffle mustard and sauerkraut, and served on a homemade pretzel bun. And at the trendy restaurant Serendipity 3, the $69 “Haute Dog” is made with 100% beef frankfurter, grilled in white truffle oil, and infused with rare cognac.
These gourmet hot dogs are certainly not your average street vendor variety, but they showcase New York’s love affair with the humble hot dog, elevating it to the ranks of haute cuisine.
Hot Dog Eating Contests in New York
Hot dog eating contests in New York have become a tradition during the 4th of July weekend. The most famous of these competitions is the Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest, where contestants compete to eat the most hot dogs in just 10 minutes. This event has been held annually since 1916 on Coney Island and is broadcasted live on ESPN.
The current record holder is Joey Chestnut, who ate 75 hot dogs in 2020. The event has become a spectacle with thousands of people gathering to watch the contestants shove as many hot dogs down their throats as possible. The contest has paved the way for other competitive eating events, such as pizza eating contests and even a sushi eating contest. While some may view these contests as bizarre, they have become a part of New York’s food culture and continue to draw in crowds each year.
Final Words
New York City can easily be described as the hub of hot dogs in the United States, with its numerous street vendors, delis, and concession stands vending multiple variants of this tasty food. Be it the much-loved Nathan’s Famous or Gray’s Papaya, or the yet-to-be popular places such as Crif Dogs or Shake Shack, the city has an abundance of hot dog options for any age group.
New York hot dogs are not only limited to the traditional ways of serving, but they are widely explored and are available with a variety of toppings that are not found anywhere else. The blend of meat, the unique sauce, and the steamed bun make these hot dogs incredibly promising and the perfect way to enhance a traditional New York experience. It’s no wonder why New Yorkers are so proud of their hot dogs, and with the unlimited options available in the city, visitors will surely join that sentiment.