Find Hot Dog Heaven at These Local Businesses

Happy National Hot Dog Day! America’s favorite summer snack originated in Germany in the 13th century. In the late 1800’s, a German immigrant named Feuchtwanger introduced what we now know as hot dogs in St. Louis, when he served a frankfurter in a bun to protect his customer’s hands from burns. The snack was an immediate hit and took the country by storm, including Portland. Today, Portlanders can get a meat or veggie dog pretty much anywhere in the City. Here’s a few of our favorites.

  • 82nd Ave: For a hot dog with a Japanese twist, check out Mojo Crepes, which offers fusion dogs made with with nori, kimchee, wasabi mayo and more.
  • Alberta: Enjoy one of Donnie Vegas’ signature hot dogs made with 100% Washington Angus beef and wash it down with one of their cocktails on tap.
  • Division/Clinton: The Doghouse offers both meat and veggie dogs alongside their signature grass-fed burgers, massive tot bowls and breakfast burritos.
  • Foster: The Pod Bar at Carts on Foster has a nice selection of beer to pair with their hot dogs. Plus outdoor seating!
  • Hawthorne: For a New York hot dog experience, try Nick’s Famous Coney Island, which has been grilling them up for 86 years! A few blocks down the street, the Chicago-inspired Zach’s Shack boasts a sweet outdoor patio complete with ping pong table.
  • Lents: Get a taste of Bavaria at Zoiglhaus Brewing, where you can get a plate of Currywurst or a Sausage Platter to go with your beer.
  • Midway: For authentic 50’s-style dining, try Cruiser’s Drive-In, which serves classic burgers and dogs plus fries and ice cream.
  • Northwest District: Looking for a new spin on a classic dog? Beez Neez serves beef franks, but they also serve exotic game sausages (like Alaskan reindeer) plus vegan options.
  • St. Johns: One of the newest contenders in Portland’s hot dog scene is Hot Dog Energy, which has Coney Dogs and Chicago Dogs along with Corn Dogs and Frito Pie, all available vegan.
  • Woodstock: Since 1921, the family-owned Otto’s Sausage Kitchen has been selling their famous homemade sausages to hungry Portlanders. Grab and go from their outdoor grill 7 days a week!

This list is non-exhaustive so if you have a favorite Portland hot dog, tell us about it on Instagram and Facebook.