02-07-2025
8 Best Hot Dog Spots in Durham, North Carolina
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From New York dogs to Carolina classics Jul 2, 2025, 1:49 PM UTC
Probably one of the least pretentious of popular American foodstuffs, hot dogs, along with the establishments serving them, are broadly adored but rarely reviewed. The ubiquitous sausage, made from highly processed, condensed ground meat, is one of the most iconic American foods, steeped in nostalgia and evoking images of backyard summer cookouts.
Dining out has gotten more expensive and less accessible, but in Durham, North Carolina, the quality and quantity of affordable local hot dog joints will give any fast food chain a run for their money. The Durham County Library even hosted a hot dog crawl in 2023. Think pillowy buns, grilled dogs, topped with an array of tangy, dripping condiments. From the Southern classic all-the-way dog (topped with chili, mustard, coleslaw, and onions) to new twists, like a pulled pork barbecue-topped dog, there's something for every hot dog lover in the Triangle.
Locations are listed geographically from north to south.
From New York dogs to Carolina classics Jul 2, 2025, 1:49 PM UTC
Probably one of the least pretentious of popular American foodstuffs, hot dogs, along with the establishments serving them, are broadly adored but rarely reviewed. The ubiquitous sausage, made from highly processed, condensed ground meat, is one of the most iconic American foods, steeped in nostalgia and evoking images of backyard summer cookouts.
Dining out has gotten more expensive and less accessible, but in Durham, North Carolina, the quality and quantity of affordable local hot dog joints will give any fast food chain a run for their money. The Durham County Library even hosted a hot dog crawl in 2023. Think pillowy buns, grilled dogs, topped with an array of tangy, dripping condiments. From the Southern classic all-the-way dog (topped with chili, mustard, coleslaw, and onions) to new twists, like a pulled pork barbecue-topped dog, there's something for every hot dog lover in the Triangle.
Locations are listed geographically from north to south.
The most unassuming place to grab a bite is Blake's Coney Island. This is a one-man operation, owned by Blake Hawthorne, whose cart is parked outside of Lowe's Home Improvement, which has been its home for the past 15 years. Though Hawthorne is originally from Oklahoma, he has lived in North Carolina for three decades, but serves up New York specialties. Sabrett hot dogs, the same snappy, all-beef franks iconic to NYC street carts, are boiled then finished on the flattop. Italian sausage and bratwurst are available for those craving something with a bit more kick, or you can ask for your dog with Sabrett onions and red sauce, another New York specialty. These all-beef hot dogs are set on a potato bun for an extra layer of richness and comfort. The highlight of a visit to Blake's is a chat with the man himself, whose friendly demeanor beams as he preps your dog. 117 William Penn Plz, Durham, NC 27704
With two locations, in North and South Durham, chances are anytime you're craving a hot dog, you're not too far from a Jimmy's. Have your hot dog with ketchup and mustard for $2.09 or go 'all the way,' piling on chili, slaw, onions, and mustard for $2.59. Plus, you have your pick of beef, turkey, or pork. Jimmy's nails the classic hot dog. The dog is expertly grilled, and the bun is toasted. As a bonus, classic toppings like coleslaw and pickled jalapenos are free. And, if you're not in the mood for a sausage, don't sleep on Jimmy's fried catfish with an extra crispy coating or the homemade banana pudding loaded with fresh bananas and vanilla wafers.
The space itself feels like a time capsule. Black-and-white photos of Durham streets and sports stars adorn the walls, lending the place a nostalgic energy that feels older than it is, like a local institution that has been open for years, perhaps even decades. 2728 Guess Rd, Durham, NC 27705
(919) 471-0005
(919) 471-0005 Visit Website
Driving by one of the four locations, three of which are in Durham, and one in Hillsborough, you cannot miss the Dog House. The outposts are true to the name; the buildings are shaped like an actual dog house, making it a fun, quirky roadside destination. The playful theme continues on the menu where customers can keep it simple with the 'Puppy Dog,' just $2.35, or try something tangy like the 'German Shepherd' with spicy mustard and sauerkraut for $2.95.
The standard offering is a snappy red hot dog, but for an extra 50 cents, diners can upgrade to beef. Either way, expect a soft, slightly mushy bun and a no-frills approach. The Dog House leans into simplicity, nostalgia, and value.
Opened in 1970, this local fixture also serves up Southern staples like golden hush puppies and an old-school fried bologna sandwich. It's the kind of place where convenience meets comfort food. No fancy presentation, just a reliably satisfying bite when you're on the move.
Dain's Place serves a hot dog that is a cut above the rest, both in taste and price, coming in at the relatively steep, but justifiable price of $4.99. The dog is delivered 'on a fresh baked roll' as the menu proudly states, that is thick and slathered in butter. The all-beef hot dog is split down the center, perfectly grilled and crispy on the outside, and sauces come drizzled across the top in a zig-zag for a lofty presentation.
The free toppings list is impressively long, covering all the classics and venturing into more adventurous territory with options like chipotle mayo, banana peppers, and Thousand Island dressing. All of the freebies are tempting, but exercise restraint to find the ultimate balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and spicy elements.
Dain's also stands out in its ambience, with cozy bar stools and booths. Regulars sit for hours nursing a beer on the outdoor picnic tables as students trot up and down Ninth Street. The hot dogs are a secret highlight at this Durham establishment. 754 9th St (W Markham Ave), Durham, NC 27705
(919) 416-8800
(919) 416-8800 Visit Website
If your timing is right when you visit King's, hop across the street with your hot dog and watch a high school baseball game at the historic ballpark. Centrally located in downtown Durham, King's is a piece of history surrounded by breweries and new builds. Opened in 1942, King's is one of the longest-standing restaurants in Durham. It provides a quintessential hot dog experience all the way, nothing fancy. When asked what toppings are offered, the cashier responded, 'Anything you can think of putting on a hot dog.' Vegetarians will appreciate that amidst the menu of dogs, burgers, and shakes is a fine veggie dog. Loaded with all of the toppings, it's hard to notice the difference.
A veggie dog will ring in at $3.50, while a traditional 'King's' hot dog starts at just $1.85.
When it comes to budget-friendly dogs, it's hard to beat Dollar Dog Night at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Thursdays, during the season, Sahlen's all-beef hot dogs go for just $1. Few things are more American than hot dogs and baseball, and here, you can indulge in both without breaking the bank.
It's also the cheapest (and boldest) way to attempt the infamous Nine Innings Challenge — that's one hot dog and one beer per inning.
Earlier this year Que Dogs upgraded from a humble hot dog cart to a brick-and-mortar. Though in true hot dog spirit, it's a walk-up window tucked in the middle of the Lakewood Shopping Center parking lot. Que Dogs isn't shy about its raison d'etre, the hot dog topped with smoky, tender pulled pork barbecue. Que Dogs is pricier than other vendors, with the signature Que Dog set at $9, and toppings are available at an additional cost. But the indulgent combination of bold flavors makes every cent and every bite worthwhile.
Taking over the former home of Joe's Diner — once known for its One Pound Big Dog Club — Cate's has some seriously big buns to fill. The spirit of Joe's lingers with articles about Joe's encased in glass and pinned to a bulletin on the wall. One reads, 'Stand with Joe and President Obama and tell Congress to extend tax cuts for middle-class families.'
Beef, chicken, and turkey hot dogs are all $3 each, with a selection of free toppings. While the decor may be no-frills, the food isn't. Cate's doesn't try to reinvent the hot dog, but it does master the basics with care. The potato bun and hot dogs are grilled to order, and toppings are generous. On any given day, you'll find a rotating cast of soulful sides, such as creamy mac and cheese and collard greens.
