Where to Celebrate National Hot Dog Day In NYC

New York City has arguably the best selection of hot dogs in the world. From street vendors and food trucks to delis and upscale restaurants, there’s a hot dog for everyone. July 18th is National Hot Dog Day and there are plenty of options to choose from. Check out some of the most notoriously delicious hot dogs that can be found around the city:

Nathan’s Famous:

Now a well-known location for all New Yorkers, Nathan’s Famous on Coney Island has become something of a landmark when it comes to hot dogs. Established in 1916, Nathan’s Famous slaps together a bun and a wiener like no other, offering up cheap, plain hot dogs as well as chili and chili cheese dogs. Al Capone, Cary Grant, and Franklin Roosevelt were all known to frequent the establishment quite often, which has contributed to the legendary status of this historic hot dog joint.

The Nomad Bar

Definitely more of an upscale location to enjoy a hot dog, the Nomad Bar “Humm Dog” will cost you a whopping $16. While planted firmly in the restaurant’s comfortable and classy leather seats, enveloped in a warm and elegant atmosphere, however, the Humm Dog is well worth the price. The “Humm Dog” is wrapped in bacon and topped with celery, black truffle, and a layer of melted Gruyere cheese. If you’re in the market for a fancier frank, Nomad Bar is the perfect place for you.

Katz Delicatessen

The Frankfurter from Katz Delicatessen is but one popular item on their long menu of classic New York foods. This all beef hot dog in an all- natural casing is grilled perfectly until it’s crisp on the outside, but still juicy on the inside. It’s served on a classic bun with sauerkraut and mustard. While widely revered for their famous pastrami sandwich, their take on the classic hot dog is not to be missed.

Gray’s Papaya

Founded in 1973 by Nicholas Gray, Gray’s Papaya is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Sticking to the classics, Gray’s Papaya offers a plain hot dog for $1.95 with chili and cheese available for an additional $0.50 each. They may be simple, but you’ll be surprised at how delicious these straightforward franks are. Top tip: during the wee hours of the morning after a night out with friends, Gray’s Papaya is a perfect pit stop to fuel up and enjoy a classic New York hot dog.

Crif Dogs

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Crif Dogs, a hot-dog-lovers paradise that offers a number of unique and outlandish takes on the classic dog. With 16 different varieties and a “make your own” option, there’s sure to be something for everyone here. A particularly snappy and creative menu option is the “Spicy Red Neck,” a bacon-wrapped dog with chili, coleslaw, and crispy jalapenos.