There are few things as American as eating a hot dog in the sweltering midsummer heat. We’re in for a scorcher this year, which means you should double down on your patriotic gear and lean into this particular Fourth of July stereotype. Here are three downtown spots where you can party in the USA with a hot dog before, during and after the most American day of the year — and if you’re looking for some post-frankfurter downtown spots to celebrate at, we’ve got you covered, too. Liberty and justice and hot dogs for all.
77 Burger (77 Pearl St.)
While you certainly can eat a hot dog inside, hot dogs are undisputedly best consumed outside in the open air. Pick up any of your favorite classics, including chili and chili cheese dogs, at this burger and hot dog spot, take a little stroll through the neighborhood and enjoy your meat sticks al fresco while people-watching on Stone Street.
Shake Shack (Fulton Center)
Hot dogs are a perfect handheld food, which makes them the ideal snack between meal times. For a dog on-the-go, visit the Shake Shack outpost at the Fulton Center transportation hub before or after your commute. If you’re extra hungry, we won’t judge if you finish it on the train. But please be polite and bring napkins just in case.
Greenwich and Delancey (50 West St.)
The $13 price tag for this elevated frankfurter is somewhat heftier than what you’ll find on the rest of the list, but the goods at this upscale delicatessen are always high-quality and delicious, and the dogs are no exception. Here, a grilled kosher dog comes with ketchup, mustard and sauerkraut on the bun — classics are classics, after all. Wash it down with a Dr. Brown’s soda (Black Cherry or Cel-Ray, natch) for the true delicatessen experience.
photo: 77 Burger
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on July 1, 2024. It has since been updated.
