Support Us Button Widget

The best hot dogs you can only get in Richmond

We asked you where to find the best frank in the city

three heavily-adorned hot dogs and a coors banquet beer

Three favorites from City Dogs in the Fan. From left to right: the Philly Dog, the Indy Dog, and the Richmond Original.

Photo by RICtoday

Last week, we asked readers where to find the best hot dog in the River City. From the heart of the Fan to Henrico, here are several local places to grab a hot dog in the Richmond area.

City Dogs
This local staple has two locations — one in Shockoe Slip and one in the Fan. The menu boasts options like the Chicago Dog, the Tennessee Slaw Dog, and the Richmond Original.

Pro tip: For vegetarians or anyone just looking to branch out, any of their franks can be subbed with a soy dog.

Hots and Brats
This Carytown spot is the first permanent location for the former Mayor Meats pop-up concept.

Bonus: The restaurant also sells sausages in bulk.

Ellie’s Hot Dogs & Ice Cream
A relative newcomer to Richmond’s hot dog ecosystem, Ellie’s also serves homemade ice cream. A roadside stand within shouting distance of the Diamond, Ellie’s has an outdoor patio perfect for a quick stop or a sit-down dog.

Melito’s
A West End establishment known for its “world famous hot dogs” as well as burgers and other entrees, Melito’s is an ideal option for a sit-down lunch or dinner.

Extra hungry? Check out the Junkyard Dog, topped with chili, bacon, coleslaw, sweet relish, cheddar, mustard, and onions.

Joey’s Hot Dogs
This Glen Allen family establishment has been slinging hot dogs in Virginia for almost 80 years. The Mirabile family business first began in the Tidewater area, and their chili recipe hasn’t changed since.

Black Lodge
This Scott’s Addition pub offers the Alpine Dog, the Chicago Dog, and Street Corndog.

Pro tip: Try a Late-Nite Dog even after the bar’s kitchen closes — “the good roller bois” are available each night until close.

More from RICtoday
Richmond has a rich history in the United States, dating back to the early 17th century, but what did it look like 100 years ago?
Escape the cold and snow by taking one of these affordable flights to a new city.
Metro Richmond Zoo is putting their new pgymy hippos — Iris and Poppy — front and center on its daily live stream feed on YouTube.
Take a look at these locally owned classic diners in Richmond, Virginia that are serving plates of comfort food.
Here are some ideas to help get you on your way to some commons goals for the new year in our city.
The City of Richmond is hosting a Day of Service on Saturday, Jan. 11, aiming to bring important resources to in-need areas.
Richmond will be star-studded at the start of 2025 with a wide range of concerts and shows taking place in the winter season.
These regulations will impact employee benefits, health care, and the services available to Virginia residents in 2025.
Commonwealth Fusion Systems is investing billions to build the power plant at the James River Industrial Center.
Whether you’re interested in local news, music, sports, or wellness, there’s a River City podcast for you.