Hot dog joints truly abound in Connecticut, with particularly awesome spots cropping up in the summer to serve beach traffic. But any time of year, you can find a delicious frank in the Nutmeg State. This iconic treat is perfectly complemented by a cold glass of pink lemonade and is ideally eaten on a picnic bench. Get ready to plan your culinary trip to sample Connecticut’s 7 best hot dog joints.
What a perfect comfort food combination—hot dogs and mac and cheese! Jordan’s Hot Dogs and Mac is a highly-rated hot dog joint serving up this prized combination with numerous mouthwatering options. For a taste of home, order the New England Dog, an all-beef hot dog with sauerkraut, bacon, mustard, sweet relish, and raw onions. Or combine your favorites by ordering the Mac Dog Supreme, topped with mac and cheese, bacon, and jalapenos, which certainly will require some extra napkins. Jordan’s also has the option to order online for convenience.
Slinging hot dogs since 1928, Blackie’s is a Connecticut favorite. Originally started by a married couple, the Blackmans, seeking the American Dream, the shop began as a gas station that served hot dogs. The sale of tasty hot dogs topped with their homemade relish greatly out performed their gas sales, so the couple eventually switched their focus to delicious dogs. The relish and specialty made dogs is what made customers return time and time again. To get that same great taste at home, customers can even buy jars of their relish online and in their store.
With its eye-catching name and logo, Super Duper Weenie has attracted both Connecticut customers and those just passing through. Their specialty hot dogs are finger licking good and can include numerous toppings. The Cincinnatian is a top pick with Cincinnati-style chili, cheddar cheese, and chopped onions. Finish your meal off with a towering pile of fresh cut fries.
With a monster menu and both long and short dogs, there is certainly something for every hot dog lover here. The Hawaiian dog, topped with diced pineapple and coconut shavings, sounds delectably different and the over 30 available free or premium toppings are impressively varied. Those looking for something sweet to balance out the savory dog will love a mochi ice cream sold in nearly 20 flavors.
Serving up breakfast and lunch, Chef’s Dog House is a great pit stop for the hungry traveler. Expect all beef dogs with some seriously hearty toppings. The Prairie Dog, a bacon wrapped hot dog with onion dip, and potatoes, is a stand out on the menu. Soups and salads are also available for those looking for something a bit easier on the cholesterol level.
In business for over 85 years, Capital Lunch does tasty fast food right. Down to a fine-tuned art, the small menu makes it easy to order your favorite. The top pick is located front and center on the menu, being an everything hot dog with mustard, onions, and their famous sauce for a reasonable price of under two bucks. Other options include quarter pound burgers, sides, and bottled soft drinks.
Opening early, Al’s Hot Dog Stand serves up Connecticut-made pork and beef hot dogs produced by the Hummel Brothers. These long dogs are served with numerous toppings, but their three homemade relishes at different levels of heat are a cut above. Their monster serving of Texas Fries makes a perfect accompaniment to any dog on the menu.