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In the mood for a frank? Whether you like ’em classic with ketchup or loaded with all the fixings, you’ll find the perfect dog at these spots.
By Duke Ratliff with additional reporting by El J Ayala and Zach Gibbs
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. Just in time for the Fourth of July, here are some of our favorite franks.
The Dog Den
1 Main St, White Plains; 914.328.3288
It’s been five 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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Dog Haus
3137 E Main St, Mohegan Lake; 845.915.4287
Dog Haus is iconic for Hawaiian roll buns, which give a hint of sweetness to the savory dogs. Try the staple Haus Dogs such as the Downtown, a smoked bacon dog topped with caramelized onions, pickled peppers, mayo, mustard, and ketchup. Or take a swing at the Chili Idol for a different type of zing, which consists of the Haus chili, cheddar cheese sauce, and onions. Dog Haus even has vegetarian options for non-meat eaters.
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Dougie’s Standby
604 N Main St, Port Chester; 914.939.0022
Port Chester locals know that Dougie’s Standby is the place for hot dogs with homemade chili. While every day is hot dog day at Dougie’s Standby, Wednesday is extra special with a twofer: Buy one hot dog, 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 its hot dog is a great way to be part of its no-frills history. It’s a Hebrew National, and it comes with sauerkraut, relish, or coleslaw. More open-minded gourmands can try the Pita Dog, with two hot dogs, plus mustard and pickles. Instead of chips, go for the 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 signature mustard, and, with one bite, they’ll make you forget all about those DWDs (dirty water dogs) of NYC.
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Related: Where to Get the Hottest Frozen Hot Chocolate in Westchester
