Across baseball stadiums and backyard barbeques, in greasy spoons and upscale eateries, hot dogs are inescapable this time of year—not that we’re complaining. The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council estimates that each summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Americans consume around seven billion hot dogs. That’s 818 franks per second. No matter what you call them—wieners, frankfurters, dogs—this Wednesday is your chance to celebrate with one or two of these classic American eats. Here, we round up some of the very best hot dogs in the city:
Stuggy’s: Whether you’re visiting their cozy Fells Point location or enjoying an O’s game at Camden Yards, Stuggy’s is one of those quintessential Baltimore eats. The family-owned institution serves up fan-favorite franks named after the likes of Bruce Lee and Frank Zappa, but you’re probably there for one reason: their crab mac-and-cheese dog. Piled high with homemade macaroni and lump crab, plus a generous dusting of Old Bay and a twist of lemon, it’s a homegrown delicacy that always hits the spot. 809 S. Broadway St., 410-327-0228
G & A Restaurant: G & A has called Eastern Avenue home since 1927, and with 90-plus years of experience, this down-home luncheonette has had plenty of time to figure out the ideal Coney Island-style hot dog. The dogs are grilled to perfection and heaped with chili, mustard, and raw onion, all for just $2.30 a pop. G & A also comes approved by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, who featured the restaurant on his Food Network show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. 3802 Eastern Ave., 410-276-9422
The Heavenly Hotdog Grill: Every day is a cookout at Heavenly Hotdog Grill. The Northeast Market establishment serves backyard favorites like mac and cheese, collard greens, and pit beef, but don’t miss their eponymous grilled franks. Try canine-themed dogs like the Great Dane—which is topped with lettuce, tomato, mayo, and sirloin steak—or the Flamin’ Dog, which boasts two kinds of peppers and jalapeño cheese. Better yet, none of the varieties cost more than $6. 201 E. Monument St., 410-831-7905
Snake Hill: The jury is still out on the practice of categorizing sausages as hot dogs, but Snake Hill is just too good to pass up. The Highlandtown tavern’s menu is built around cased meats of all varieties, including classics like pork and chicken and more exotic options like alligator, duck, and eggplant. Sample bites like the Pho-Q with pork, Sriracha, fennel, and Thai basil, and the Natty Boh brat, a bratwurst made with Baltimore’s favorite beer. 418 S. Clinton St., 410-469-9003
Haute Dog Carte: “Haute” is the right word for the creations at this Falls Road staple, run out of a converted garage by chef Daniel Raffel. Their offerings change daily, and they’re never boring—recent varieties included a bison dog with cherry chili barbeque sauce, a pizza dog, and chicken jalapeño dog with mango salsa. They’re only open Wednesday through Sunday until 2:30 p.m., so escape the office and celebrate the holiday with a gourmet lunch. 6070 Falls Rd., 410-608-3500
Attman’s Delicatessen: One of the few remaining holdouts of the famed Corned Beef Row, Attman’s is an old-school Jewish deli that boasts a following well beyond Baltimore. Their jumbo dogs come with bologna on top and optional additions like relish, onions, and chili—a treat that looks and tastes like it’s transported straight out of the Lower East Side. Pair it with a pickle and a heaping of French fries for a cheap, authentic meal. 1019 E. Lombard St., 410-563-2666