Grabbing an authentic Chicago dog in Austin is definitely doable.
Hot dogs are an American summertime classic that have gone through a bit of a resurgence lately, especially since many butchers and chefs have started to make their own by hand. Long gone are the days of the standard boiled hot dogs at sidewalk stands. Today, many people who have taken Austin culinary arts courses are learning to craft their own hot dogs, and they are getting more sophisticated year after year.
If you’re looking to see what the hot dog craze is all about or simply want to grab a delicious summertime snack, be sure to check out these excellent hot dog hot spots in Austin:
Dai Due Butcher Shop & Supper Club: While this place is known for its brunch and Southern-style offerings, the hot dog on the lunch menu is gaining a lot of buzz with local foodies, and when you read the list of ingredients, you’ll understand why. The hot dogs are made of venison, then topped with kimchi, classic mayo and cured mackerel (yes, you read that right). Then, the dogs are fitted perfectly in an onion seed roll – pure hot dog decadence.
Evil Wiener: Food trucks are huge in Austin, and hot dogs are the perfect food to serve out of them. While there are many hot dog food trucks in the city, this one takes the cake. Though you can get a standard American classic with the traditional fixings, you can also try options like the Carolina (topped with pulled pork and coleslaw) or the green dillo (chicken fried with poblano gravy, green onions and shredded cheese).
Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden: Hot dogs and beer are a perfect combo, and this place takes the pairing to the next level. Jalapeno cheddar brats, turducken hot dogs, currywurst, beet and goat cheese dogs and chicken, spinach and sundried tomato dogs are just a few of the unique tube-form concoctions you’ll get to see and taste here. There are also veggie dogs, classic dogs and andouille for spice lovers as well. A plethora of local, regional and foreign beers (over 100 on draft) are also available to wash everything down, and the beautiful picnic-style beer garden is the perfect setting for an Austin summertime gathering with friends.
Mighty Dogs Cafe: This adorable area favorite features 100 percent all-beef hot dogs, and chefs here make sure to use farm-to-table ingredients for toppings – perfect for fans of sustainable eating. This place boasts an authentic Chicago dog (green relish and all) and Italian beef sandwich, but also takes on other city versions, such as an Athens dog with feta, sauteed spinach and tzatziki in a pita, the Tucson with tomatoes, pinto beans and jalapenos, and the Austin (of course) with creamy jalapeno sauce, nacho cheese and black beans. If you aren’t a fan of those combinations, you can also build your own from a wide variety of fun toppings.
