The humble hot dog is enjoying a bit of a renaissance lately. No longer relegated to backyards or ballparks, the new dog is enjoying a position of prominence on menus across the city. And forget mustard and ketchup, these days it’s topped with homemade pimento cheese, guacamole or even tomatoes.
With May marking the official start of hot dog season, we’re highlighting some of the finest franks in the city. The options range from foot-long to mini, fast food to foodie – proving, once and for all, that every dog truly does have its day.
…and the weiners are…
Best Ballpark
AT&T Field 201 Power Alley, 423-267-2208
Hot dogs and baseball have always been a winning combination. According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, they remain the MVP of the concession stand with more than 20 million consumed each year at Major League Baseball ballparks across the country. At AT&T Field, hot dog purists can enjoy this classic in its natural element, surrounded by green grass, aluminum bleachers and a roaring crowd. This All-American dog is best when kept simple – ketchup and mustard on a steamed bun. $3.25
Best on the Go
“The New York Dog” at Sonic Multiple locations
Grab a New York-style dog on the go, minus the accent or the attitude. This premium beef dog is grilled to perfection then topped with spicy mustard, sauerkraut and grilled onions. For an added slice of Americana, these dogs are skated right to your window by a Sonic carhop. You can also wash down your dog any way you like with one of the drive-in’s 398,929 drink combinations. $1.99 (hot dog only)
Best Puppy Dog
“Krystal Chili Cheese Pup” Multiple locations
While these two-bite treats are small in stature, their flavor is full-sized. Krystal introduced its famous chili in the ’50s, but it wasn’t until the ’90s that the Chattanooga company had the brilliant idea to slather it on a mini hot dog called a “pup” and top it with shredded cheddar. Krystal boasts a strong presence in the area with more than 20 locations, making it easy to get your fix. $1.29 (one hot dog)
Best Known
“Miss Griffin” at Griffin’s Footlong Hot Dogs 1449 Cemetery Avenue, 423-265-5280
This famous foot-long is topped with yellow mustard, onions, hot sauce and the restaurant’s patented relish, which has remained a secret for more than 70 years. Created by original owner Willie Mae Griffin, the savory and sweet topping has put this dog on the map, earning a multi-generational following. Beginning as a walk-up stand in 1939, the iconic restaurant moved to its present location in the early ’70s, located at the corner of Main and Central. $3.30
Best Backyard
“Q-Dog” at The Purple Daisy Picnic Café 4001 St. Elmo Avenue, 423-822-6477
One of the only restaurants in town to offer frankfurters kissed by the flame, the “Q” offers the trademark smokiness of a backyard dog with a twist. After spending several hours in the restaurant’s hickory smoker, this all-beef dog is topped with pulled pork then accessorized with tangy barbecue sauce and homemade spicy slaw. During warmer months, owner Tony Davis keeps the fires burning nearly every day, luring passing cars with the aroma of outdoor cooking. $4.75
Best Dressed
“Chicago Dog” at Good Dog 34 Frazier Avenue, 423-475-6175
The Windy City meets the Scenic City with this well-dressed dog. A few modifications have been made but all the flavors are present, assures Good Dog owner and hot dog aficionado Susan Paden. Tomatoes, onions and pickles are bite-sized for a more eater-friendly experience, but staples such as neon green relish and sport peppers are the real deal, imported straight from Chicago. Celery salt and poppy seeds are sprinkled on top as a final touch. $4.25
Best Mess
“Puffer Dog” at Puffer Belly BBQ 67 Sanford Lane (Flintstone), 706-820-4200
You may want to double-check your health insurance before diving into this dog. The Puffer begins with a whopping quarter-pound dog, which is wrapped in bacon, deep fried, then topped with melted cheese, salsa, mustard, mayo, relish, onions, guacamole and cowboy beans. Jalapenos are optional. A hoagie roll supports this monstrous concoction since a standard bun would most likely collapse under the pressure. As if this weren’t enough food, this dog also comes with a side of fries for just $5.75.