There’s a definite standard when it comes to hot dogs in the South. Shops have to have a fine, well-flavored, not-too-creamy slaw and a bean-free chili that’s not too wet nor too dry. However, there is the exception for the unique, as hot dogs with a quirky spin, or perhaps a well-executed version from another region, will bring Georgia hot dog lovers in by the droves.
The Varsity, Atlanta
The Varsity will forever and always belong in any great Georgia fast food article, and of course, it belongs on this list. The bean-less chili atop a beef dog and a soft bun, with a kiss of mustard—that’s the holy grail of hot dogs. The french fries are fresh cut and completely superior to frozen crinkle variations.
Yellow Jacket Hot Dogs, Ellenwood
Yellow Jacket Hot Dogs is a strip mall hot dog hut in Ellenwood that has been around for decades and seems somewhat like The Varsity’s arch-nemesis. With a Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets theme, 100% natural, local ingredients are used to make the southern slaw and slightly “wetter” chili. We have to admit, with Idaho potato fries and apple or peach hand pies, they may compete with The Varsity (gasp!).
456 Santa Fe Trail, Ellenwood, GA 30294, USA— +1 770-389-9933
Nu-Way Weiners, Macon
Nu-Way’s vibrant-hued frankfurters are known as the dog of all dogs to most Macon natives. It’s hard to say why the hot dogs are so red, but the “Greek chili” created in 1916 is said to rival all other hotdog locations in the south, and that’s saying something. The slaw is dryer too, and quite fine, making it perfect as a hotdog topping.
The Original Hot Dog Factory, Atlanta
We love the international spin on the Smyrna weenies at The Original Hot Dog Factory. The Jamaican Jerk Chicken Dog, Taste of Seattle, and the Italian Dog are all delicious combos with ingredients that fit the names. But the Street Polish Dog is where it’s at, with Polish sausage on a poppy seed bun, grilled onions, mustard, and sport peppers.
75 Piedmont Ave NE #150, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA— +1 404-907-4133
Brandi’s World Famous Hot Dogs, Marietta
Brandi’s World Famous Hotdogs sets within a modest century-old shop in Marietta, slightly above Atlanta. Once owned by “Betty,” Brandi took over in the early 2000s, making the old owners proud. Following traditional South hot dog protocol, the chili has a bit more kick, but the spice can be taken down a notch by ordering it “drained.” Oh, and they get the gold medal for their delicious sweet tea.
1377 Church Street Ext NW, Marietta, GA 30060, USA— +1 770-422-3681
Charlie Joseph’s, LaGrange
Lagrange’s go-to American food joint is Charlie Joseph’s, which was opened in 1920 by a Lebanese couple. Their simple little dogs are nestled into soft steamed buns and slathered with an excess of chili and cheese. Pair it with their crushed ice and coke.
Skip's Chicago Dogs, Atlanta
Going against the grain of the traditional chili and slaw, Skip’s Chicago Dogs in Avondale brings us truly classic Chicago dogs, complete with Vienna beef, mustard, green relish, onions, celery salt, pickles, peppers, and tomatoes. You’ll feel like your dining in the Windy City.
48 N Avondale Rd, Avondale Estates, GA 30002, USA— +1 404-292-6703
