A close-up of a hot dog in a soft bun, loaded with yellow mustard, ketchup, diced white onions, and relish, on a white background.

When you make hot dogs at home, you likely just grill them and add some ketchup and mustard.  Sometimes, simple is the most satisfying.  Other times,  however, it’s good to change things up.  Across the U.S., different regions are known for their take on the American classic.  Read on to find out more!

Detroit: Although Coney Island is in New York, this Michigan city is known for its ‘coneys’ – hot dogs topped with chili, cheese, and raw onion.  If you’re in town, head to American and Lafayette, two hot dog stands right across the street from one another – and you be the judge.

Chicago: You won’t find ketchup on a hot dog in the Windy City.  Instead, you get a tangy mix of relish, mustard, onion, and pickles, with peppers and tomatoes, too.  Try the one at Allium for lunch.

New Jersey: The classic New Jersey hot dog is the Italian Dog, featuring peppers, onions, and fried potatoes.  Additionally, it’s served on Italian bread rather than your standard bun.  Try it at Jimmy Buff’s for the original.

Kansas City: The KC hot dogs take their inspiration from the Reuben sandwich.  They come loaded with sauerkraut, melted Swiss, and maybe some Thousand Island dressing.  Grab one at a game at Kauffman Stadium.

Atlanta: In Atlanta and a lot of the South, your dog will come stacked high with coleslaw and onion. Try the one at Little’s Food Store, where you can get a scoop of chili under the ‘slaw if you’re game.

New York: The New York hot dog is the original.  Steamed onions and mustard.  Head to Katz’s on the Lower East Side or, for the truly classic, Nathan’s on Coney Island.