10 Regional Hot Dog Styles You Have to Try

Like apple pie, hot dogs are an iconic American food. To celebrate National Hot Dog Day on July 21, we're highlighting 10 regional hot dog styles across the U.S. Each style reflects the local culture and flavors, making them a must-try during your travels!

1. Chicago Dog

Starting in the Midwest, the Chicago Dog is a beloved classic. This all-beef hot dog is served on a poppy seed bun and is topped with:

• Yellow mustard
• Neon green relish
• Chopped onions
• Pickle spears
• Sport peppers
• Tomato slices
• Celery salt

While in Chicago, remember: never ask for ketchup on a Chicago dog!

2. Detroit Coney

Detroiters take their Coney dog seriously. Made with an all-beef hot dog and a steamed white bun, it's topped with bean-free chili, diced onions, and yellow mustard. For an authentic experience, visit the rival Coney Island restaurants: Lafayette and American Coney Island.

3. Cincinnati Coney

Cincinnati offers its own twist with the Cincinnati Coney. This hot dog features a pork-beef combo topped with:

• Cincinnati chili (spiced with cinnamon and cocoa)
• Diced onions
• Shredded cheddar cheese

Unique in flavor, this hot dog showcases Cincinnati's distinctive culinary identity.

4. Kansas City Hot Dog

The Kansas City hot dog features a pork-beef hot dog nestled in a sesame seed bun, topped with melted Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and mustard. Some variations even include Thousand Island dressing, reminiscent of a Reuben sandwich.

5. New York Hot Dog

Famous for their street vendors, the New York hot dog uses a kosher beef hot dog in a white bun. Standard toppings include mustard, sauerkraut, and onions cooked in tomato paste. Ketchup is generally frowned upon—stick to the classics!

6. Jersey-Style Hot Dog

New Jersey boasts the Italian dog, or Jersey-style hot dog, which is all-beef and served on an Italian roll with fried peppers, onions, and potatoes. It's a hearty meal that's perfect for those with a big appetite!

7. D.C. Half-Smoke

In Washington, D.C., the half-smoke is a spicy, smoked sausage made from a 50-50 blend of pork and beef. Ben's Chili Bowl serves the classic version topped with spicy chili, onions, and mustard.

8. Atlanta Dog

The Atlanta dog offers a Southern twist. While the meat and bun may vary, it's traditionally topped with chili, mustard, and creamy coleslaw, providing a refreshing crunch on hot summer days.

9. Southwest Sonoran Dog

In the Southwest, particularly in Arizona, the Sonoran dog reigns supreme. Wrapped in bacon and topped with:

• Pinto beans
• Tomatoes
• Onions
• Jalapeños

Popular sauces include mayo, mustard, and salsa verde—perfect for those seeking bold flavors!

10. Seattle-Style Hot Dog

Finally, the Seattle-style hot dog is a unique creation often attributed to a bagel cart. Topped with cream cheese, sautéed onions, and jalapeños, these hot dogs are usually split open and seared. Polish sausage is often a popular substitute.

Sampling these diverse hot dog styles is a delicious way to explore America's culinary landscape. Share this post with your hot dog-loving friends and challenge them to try all the regional variations!

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