In the same way that Westchester gourmands know that they’re a short drive from the finest, most upscale meal, hot dog lovers — and there are plenty out there — have their favorite local spots for doggy dining. As we really dig into midsummer, here are some of our favorite franks.
The Dog Den
1 Main St, White Plains; 914.328.3288
It’s been six years since Dennis Rubich converted the former historic bus depot in White Plains into a hot dog haven, and local frankfurter connoisseurs have celebrated ever since. Dubbing itself “home of fun on a bun,” The Dog Den features a super-creative mix of specialty dogs including The Swissy Shroom, with cheese and mushrooms, and the Bill Murray, a modernized Chicago-style dog. And if you’re taller than Rubich (he’s seven-foot-one), you’ll eat for free.
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P.C. Stand By
604 N Main St, Port Chester; 914.939.0022
Port Chester locals know that P.C. Stand By is the place for hot dogs with homemade chili. While every day is hot dog day at P.C. Stand By, Wednesday is extra special with a twofer: Buy one hot dog and get one hot dog free. The luncheonette also serves up breakfast, burgers, steak wedges, and grilled chicken.
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Epstein’s of Hartsdale
387 N Central Ave, Hartsdale; 914.428.5320
Epstein’s has been cooking and serving its family recipes since 1969, and tasting its hot dog is a great way to be part of its no-frills history. The dog is a Hebrew National, and it comes with sauerkraut, relish, coleslaw, chili, or potato salad. More open-minded gourmands can try the Pita Dog, a pita pocket stuffed with two hot dogs plus all the fixings. Instead of chips, go for the potato knish (never pass on a knish from a Kosher deli, just sayin’).
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Walter’s Hot Dogs
937 Palmer Ave, Mamaroneck; 914.500.5029
186 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains; 914.397.9406
Walter’s Hot Dogs is a Westchester institution for good reason: Its history goes all the way back to 1919, its stand in Mamaroneck is a national historic landmark, and the dogs are made from an exclusive blend of beef, pork, and veal. They’re split down the middle, grilled in a secret sauce, served on a toasted bun with a signature mustard, and, with one bite, they’ll make you forget all about those DWDs (dirty water dogs) of NYC.
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