From chili-loaded franks to sausages with mayo, relish, mustard and ketchup, here are the best hot dogs in DC
There is nothing that a well-made wiener—whether a chili-loaded frank or a sausage topped with mayo, relish, mustard and ketchup—can’t fix. Whether starving following a day spent visiting the best Washington DC attractions, hungover after a drinking session at the best bars in DC or simply in need of a pick-me-up following a night at the best jazz clubs in DC, the best hot dogs in DC will cure your ails. Trust us.
Hot dogs are the name of the game at this food truck in the DMV. Although you can’t go wrong with any of Swizzler’s offerings (all feature 100% grass-fed antibiotic- and hormone-free beef grilled over an open flame), the Leonardo dog Vinci is by far the star of the show. The dog is mouth-watering and is served on a pretzel bun from Lyon Bakery. Traditional hot dog toppings are ditched for house-made pesto, fresh mozzarella, grape tomatoes and a balsamic glaze drizzle.
Bourbon Steak chef Joe Palma gives the hot dog a gourmet spin with his decadent A5 Waygu Chicago Dog, which features house-blended pork and A5 sausage nestled in between a bun and topped with pickled sweet peppers and spicy mustard. If you’re in the mood for surf instead of turf, the lobster corn dogs—served with a whole-grain mustard dipping sauce—make for a great treat.
When a hot dog craving strikes late at night, head to El Centro D.F. and order their offering off the siesta menu. All of chef Richard Sandoval’s food is infused with Mexican flavor, including the street-inspired hot dog, which arrives at your table wrapped in bacon and loaded with Mexican slaw, black bean puree and Habanero mustard for a spicy kick.
This celebrity frequented hot spot has been a DC mainstay since 1958. You haven’t had a hot dog until you’ve tried the famous all-meat chili dog made with a grilled premium pork sausage nestled in between a steamed bun and drenched with mustard, onions and, of course, the signature chili sauce.
Who said vegans can’t enjoy a hot dog? This Virginia beer bar offers a mean vegan chili dog that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Carnivores, don’t worry. The wiener is also available with meat and dairy ingredients. Topping options include bacon, kimichi, kraut, onion and jalapeno for a spicy punch. The dogs are best enjoyed with a beer… and there are 28 craft beers on tap to choose from.
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