Lobster might be the most iconic Maine food, but the Maine red hot dog, or “red snapper” is a close second. The red hot dog is just like a regular beef and pork frank, but it’s red and makes a nice “snap” sound when you take a bite into the natural casing. But hot dogs of all varieties are a big part of a Mainer’s diet. Nothing quite beats a freshly-made frank when you’re really craving one. Here are the 7 best hot dog joints in the state.
Known primarily for their delicious tater-tot dishes, like the tot-tine, the Blue Rooster also has an extensive hot dog menu. Owner Damian Sansonetti, who was once an executive chef in New York City, designed a hot dog menu of the most creative and tasty dogs in town. Who can resist a hot dog with a name like “Dirty Dog” or “Slawsky and Hutch?”
Selling hot dogs since 1959, Flo’s Famous Hot Dogs is a family owned and operated business in Cape Neddick. Every hot dog is served with their famous homemade relish. The hot dog stand is opened year-round and if you love the relish so much, you can even buy a jar to take home.
Named as one of the top hot dog stands in America by Thrillist, Simones’ has been selling hot dogs since 1908. While hot dogs are the star of the menu, Simones’ serves up a variety of dishes for all taste buds. And, don’t miss “$1 Hot Dog Day” on Wednesdays!
With over four hot dog stands throughout the mid-coast region, Wasses Hot Dogs is building a small hot dog empire in the state of Maine. The original Wasses is located on Maine Street in Rockland. Hot dogs are fried on the griddle alongside the must-have “fried onions.” The “Texan” hot dog is amongst the most popular choices.
Popular amongst the University of Maine college students, the Family Dog offers up a delicious menu for the whole family. From its classic Vienna beef Chicago-style dog to its Detroit Coney Island dog, you’ll find something you like on this menu. The small restaurant also offers seasonal cocktails and serves Black Bear microbrews and Shain’s of Maine ice cream.
Located just a hop, skip, and a jump from Maine’s capital city, Bolley’s Famous Franks serves up classic hot dogs that will live you satisfied. For the price of these dogs, you can buy a whole bunch of them for your friends and family. Who needs to barbecue when you have Bolley’s?
Dunston’s Doghouse is opened seasonally along Sea Street in Boothbay Harbor. With a decent size menu serving up traditional Maine foods, like lobster rolls, hot dogs, and hamburgers, Dunston’s is a great stop for a good value menu that will fill you up before you hit the road again.