7 Epic Hot Dogs Hiding Across Connecticut
Connecticut might be famous for pizza, but hot dog aficionados know it also hides amazing franks.
oadside stands and gourmet spots push the envelope, serving seriously delicious dogs. Pack your appetite as we explore seven must-try hot dog havens scattered across Connecticut.
1. Riley’s Hot Dog & Burger Gourmet — New Britain
Right in downtown New Britain, Riley’s transforms the humble hot dog into an art form. Locally sourced ingredients elevate each bite to gourmet status.
Meat lovers rave about the signature Cardiac Arrest Dog topped with chili, bacon, cheese, and onion rings. Vegetarians aren’t left out either: their plant-based options satisfy even dedicated carnivores.
2. Super Duper Weenie — Fairfield
What began as a humble food truck has evolved into a Connecticut institution. Owner Gary Zemola, a trained chef, makes everything from scratch, even the relishes and condiments.
Lines often stretch out the door at this roadside shack, but patience yields rewards. Grab the New Englander with sauerkraut, bacon, mustard, sweet relish, and raw onion for an authentic taste of local tradition.
3. Stanley’s Famous Hot Dogs — Stamford
Since 1932, Stanley’s has been grilling up perfection for generations of loyal customers. Family recipes passed down through decades give these dogs their distinctive flavor.
Grilled to a slight char that locals crave, each hot dog snaps with that satisfying first bite. Order yours “all the way” with mustard, relish, sauerkraut, and bacon bits for the authentic Stanley’s experience that keeps folks coming back.
4. Augie & Ray’s Drive-In — East Hartford
Step back in time at this nostalgic drive-in that’s been serving happy customers since 1946. Vintage vibes complement the perfectly steamed hot dogs that have barely changed in decades.
Motorcyclists and families alike gather here on summer evenings. Footlong dogs arrive wrapped in paper, topped with homemade meat sauce that’s worth the trip alone, just ask any of the regulars who’ve been coming here for 40+ years.
5. Blackie’s Hot Dog Stand — Cheshire
Loyal patrons drive for miles to visit this unassuming roadside stand operating since 1928. Cash only and closed Fridays might seem inconvenient until you taste the legendary dogs.
Simplicity reigns supreme at Blackie’s. Hot dogs come with just mustard and their famous secret-recipe relish, no ketchup allowed! Split and grilled to perfection, these no-frills franks prove that sometimes less truly is more.
6. Dog Daze Cafe — Wilton
Hidden in a Wilton shopping center, Dog Daze surprises visitors with creative combinations that push hot dog boundaries. Gourmet meets comfort food in this unassuming cafe.
Adventure seekers should try the Cowboy Dog topped with pulled pork, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce. Feeling extra hungry? Challenge yourself with the Ultimate Dog Daze, two footlongs buried under practically every topping in the house.
7. Ted’s Hot Dogs — Milford
Founded by Greek immigrant Theodore Spiro Liaros, Ted’s brings authentic charcoal-grilled flavor to Connecticut’s hot dog scene. Watch as your dog cooks over real hardwood charcoal right before your eyes.
Smoke infuses each frank with distinctive flavor impossible to replicate elsewhere. Regulars recommend the hot sauce: a spicy Greek-inspired topping unique to Ted’s. Don’t leave without trying their hand-cut onion rings, the perfect sidekick to any dog.
