Top Spots to Grab a Glizzy in Honor of National Hot Dog Month
The blazing heat of deep summer is upon us, and with it, this summer staple gets the spotlight it deserves. Glizzy gobblers, rejoice: July is National Hot Dog Month. To help you celebrate accordingly, I’ve rounded up the best spots in town that get down with a dog. Whether you prefer a traditional classic or a frank piled high with toppings, these local spots have you covered.
Image Source: Divya Williams
The Mayor
A relatively new addition, The Mayor opened in 2024 where Carytown Cupcakes once was. I got the June special, the BLT dog (Wagyu frank topped with BLT and Duke’s mayo), and my pal got the Portuguese Pirate (Linguiça sausage, pastrami, swiss cheese, and hot mustard). We were both pleasantly surprised by how dignified this often looked-down-on weenie became, just by elevating it with locally sourced ingredients and creative topping combos.
On the absurd chance you’ve had your fill of hot dogs, this spot offers much more. From sandwiches and scotch eggs to a full-service butcher counter, The Mayor packs a ton of versatility into one little Carytown shop.
Location: 3111 W Cary St (Carytown)
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Image Source: Divya Williams
City Dogs
From the familiar Chicago and Coney Island Dogs to more unique offerings like the Fan Dog or a Soy Dog topped with vegan cauliflower chili—City Dogs does it all. They offer four different hot dog brands, three types of house-made chili, and fresh local bread delivered three times a week. This is where you come with a big group of empty stomachs and a dream. Affordable prices and drink specials galore, this casual spot is a Richmond staple for a reason.
Location: 1309 W Main St (The Fan)
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Perly’s
You’ll find Perly’s on many of my “best of” lists—but this time, we’re focusing on the Deli Dogs. This beloved Jewish restaurant and deli offers toppings you won’t find at the other spots on this list. Beyond the expected mustards and pickled veg, Perly’s touts “fancier dresses” like chopped chicken liver, schmaltz, and gribiche. Now that’s a dog with serious pedigree.
Location: 111 E. Grace St (Downtown)
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Image Source: Divya Williams
Joey’s Hot Dogs
Dating back to the 1930s, this Glen Allen institution has had nearly a century to perfect the craft—and that they have. Joey’s has six types of dogs on the menu, but they’re most proud of their Joey Dog—a Usinger’s wiener handcrafted exclusively for Joey’s Hot Dogs. They round out the lineup with bratwurst, hot sausage, turkey franks, all-beef, and veggie dogs, all ready to be customized with their classic topping combinations or a creation of your own.
Location: 4028 Cox Rd, Ste H (Innsbrook)
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Image Source: Divya Williams
CarMax Park
And, of course, what would summer be without a trip (or ten) to CarMax Park to cheer on our Richmond Flying Squirrels? Baseball and hot dogs go together like ketchup and mustard, so of course you’ll easily be able to find a dog at most of the concessions options. But may we be so bold as to recommend the iconic… the elusive… the back-and-better-than-ever: Dill Dog. Exactly as the name suggests, this frank is served in a whole dill pickle as the bun—‘nuff said.
Location: 2929 N Arthur Ashe Blvd (Diamond District)
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Divya is a Richmond explorer in search of the best bites, bevs, and beautiful views this city has to offer. She's a Leo sun, Flying Squirrel rising. Find her at Pony Pasture with her dog Bean, sipping sauvy b on the Jardin patio, or enjoying a Cobra Kai at Jack Brown's—notch card in hand. Follow along @divwilliams.
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