Labor Day weekend in St. Pete wouldn’t be complete without a stop at some of the city’s best hot dog spots. From gourmet twists to nostalgic classics, these restaurants and carts prove the casual comfort food deserves star treatment.
These venues bring a taste of Chicago and Paris to Pinellas County with their takes on the hot dog. And yes, there’s even a vegan cart serving up plant-based gems.
Wondering where to grab a bite? Here are the Burg’s best hot dog spots.
The best hot dog spots in St. Pete
Engine No. 9’s hot dogs are 9 inches long, made with 100% Vienna beef and available in three varieties.
The best one? We vote for the “No.9” dog—which comes topped with grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, bacon and American cheese—though the giant “Corn Doggie” is a close second.
56 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N
Photo via Portillo’s
Portillo’s may be a chain, but there’s a reason their hot dogs are famous. From their spongy buns to drippy links, this Midwestern-based restaurant has nearly perfected the art of the fast food dog.
Though the spot is known for their classic “Chicago Dog,” our favorite is hands-down the “Char-Grilled Maxwell Street Polish Sausage” pictured above.
2302 Tyrone Blvd N
For years, Pacific Counter has been a St. Pete fan-favorite for poké and dole whip. Recently, however, the spot launched a hot dog menu that is one of the most unique in the ‘Burg.
With destination-inspired creations such as the “Hawaiian Dog” (chili aioli, sweet Hawaiian salsa and sesame seeds) and the “Bahn Mi Dog” (cucumber, jalapeno, daikon, avocado lime dressing), Pacific Counter’s links will take your tastebuds on a culinary journey.
660 Central Ave | Website
Ted Peter’s Famous Smoked Fish
Sometimes simplicity is key, and no restaurant does “simple” quite like Ted Peter’s. Known for their no-nonsense slabs of smoked fish, the classic spot takes a similar approach to hot dogs.
Served on a toasted bun with condiments on the side, Ted Peter’s gives its meat plenty of room to shine. And—with perfectly crispy skin and incredible thickness—shine it certainly does.
1350 Pasadena Ave S | Website
Nah Dogs
St. Pete has a thriving vegan community, so it makes sense that Nah Dogs—the ‘Burg’s 100% plant-based hot dog cart—would serve some of the city’s best weenies.
Soft and juicy, it’s hard to tell that these dogs are animal-product free. Especially when they come dripping in pimento ‘cheese,’ smothered in garlic mayo, or covered in crispy fried onions.
Location varies. The cart’s location can be tracked by clicking here.
Alesia
Alesia’s Parisian hot dog is fantastic. It all comes down to the incredible crunch of the French baguette. Seriously, this dish changed my expectations for all hot dogs going forward. It’s also served with caramelized onions, gruyère and mornay sauce. There’s a reason Alesia is considered one of the best restaurants in Pinellas County.
Location: 7204 Central Avenue | Website