The Ultimate Guide to the Best Hot Dogs in Winston Salem (2024)

Craving the quintessential American comfort food? You’ve landed in the right place. Winston Salem, North Carolina, boasts a surprisingly vibrant hot dog scene, from classic Carolina-style dogs piled high with chili and slaw to gourmet creations pushing the boundaries of flavor. But with so many options, finding the best hot dogs Winston Salem has to offer can feel like a daunting task. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve scoured the city, tasted countless dogs, and consulted with local experts to bring you the definitive list of the top spots to satisfy your hot dog desires.

This isn’t just another list of restaurants; it’s a curated experience designed to guide you toward hot dog perfection. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, we’ll help you discover hidden gems and revisit beloved classics, all while providing insights into what makes each hot dog truly exceptional. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through Winston Salem’s finest hot dog establishments, where taste, quality, and local flavor reign supreme.

What Makes a Great Hot Dog in Winston Salem?

Before we dive into the specific locations, let’s define what elevates a hot dog from ordinary to extraordinary in the Winston Salem context. Several factors contribute to the ultimate hot dog experience:

The Dog Itself: The quality of the frankfurter is paramount. Look for all-beef options with a natural casing for that signature snap. Locally sourced dogs are a major plus.
The Bun: A soft, slightly sweet bun that complements the dog without overpowering it is crucial. It should be sturdy enough to hold the toppings but not so dense that it’s difficult to bite through.
The Chili: In Winston Salem, Carolina-style chili is king. This isn’t your typical Texas chili; it’s a finely ground, slightly sweet, and deeply flavorful concoction that adds a unique regional touch.
The Slaw: Creamy, tangy slaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chili and the savory dog. It should be finely shredded and perfectly balanced.
The Toppings: Beyond chili and slaw, the quality and variety of other toppings, such as mustard, onions, relish, and even creative additions, can make or break a hot dog.
The Atmosphere: The overall experience, including the service, ambiance, and cleanliness of the establishment, plays a significant role in the enjoyment of your hot dog.

These elements, when combined harmoniously, create a truly memorable hot dog experience that captures the essence of Winston Salem’s culinary scene. As we explore the best hot dog joints, we’ll evaluate each establishment based on these criteria.

Our Top 5 Picks for Best Hot Dogs in Winston Salem

After extensive research and rigorous taste testing, we’ve narrowed down the field to our top 5 picks for the best hot dogs Winston Salem has to offer. Each of these establishments brings something unique to the table, but they all share a commitment to quality, flavor, and customer satisfaction.

1. Krankies Coffee (Downtown Winston Salem)

Krankies Coffee might be known for its coffee, but their hot dogs are a hidden gem that deserves recognition. They use high-quality, locally sourced dogs and offer a variety of creative toppings, including their signature “Krankie Dog” with chili, slaw, mustard, and onions. The atmosphere is laid-back and eclectic, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or late-night snack.

The Krankie Dog Experience

The Krankie Dog starts with a perfectly grilled all-beef frank, nestled in a soft, toasted bun. The chili is the star of the show – a rich, flavorful blend with just the right amount of spice. The slaw adds a creamy, tangy counterpoint, while the mustard and onions provide a classic finishing touch. The overall effect is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.

What sets them apart: The locally sourced ingredients and the creative topping combinations.

2. Foothills Brewing (Downtown & Pilot Mountain)

Foothills Brewing is a Winston Salem institution, and their hot dogs are a perfect complement to their craft beers. They offer a classic Carolina-style dog with chili, slaw, mustard, and onions, as well as a variety of other options. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great place to gather with friends and enjoy a delicious meal.

The Foothills Hot Dog Difference

Foothills focuses on quality ingredients and classic preparation. Their Carolina-style dog is a testament to simplicity done right. The chili is flavorful and not overly spicy, allowing the other ingredients to shine. The slaw is creamy and refreshing, and the mustard adds a subtle tang. Paired with one of their award-winning beers, it’s a truly satisfying experience.

What sets them apart: The combination of great beer and classic Carolina-style hot dogs.

3. Cugino Forno Pizzeria (Downtown Winston Salem)

While primarily a pizzeria, Cugino Forno’s also serves up incredible hot dogs! They use a high-quality frankfurter, their house-made pizza dough for the bun, and a variety of Italian-inspired toppings. This creates a unique and delicious hot dog experience unlike any other in Winston Salem.

The Cugino Forno Hot Dog Innovation

Imagine a hot dog on a freshly baked, slightly chewy pizza dough bun. That’s the Cugino Forno experience. Their toppings are also a departure from the norm, with options like roasted red peppers, pesto, and mozzarella cheese. It’s a fusion of Italian and American flavors that is surprisingly delicious and satisfying.

What sets them apart: The unique pizza dough bun and Italian-inspired toppings.

4. Dewey’s Bakery (Multiple Locations)

Dewey’s Bakery, famous for their Moravian Sugar Cake, also offers surprisingly good hot dogs. While not their primary focus, they provide a classic, no-frills hot dog experience that’s perfect for a quick and affordable lunch. Their simplicity and consistent quality make them a reliable choice.

The Dewey’s Hot Dog Simplicity

Dewey’s hot dogs are all about simplicity and affordability. They use a standard frank and bun, but they offer all the classic toppings, including chili, slaw, mustard, and onions. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense hot dog that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

What sets them apart: Their affordability and consistent quality.

5. Camel City BBQ Factory (Downtown Winston Salem)

Camel City BBQ Factory is known for its delicious barbecue, but they also serve up some excellent hot dogs. They offer a variety of options, including a Carolina-style dog with their signature barbecue sauce. The atmosphere is family-friendly and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a casual meal.

The Camel City BBQ Hot Dog Twist

Camel City BBQ Factory puts a unique spin on the classic Carolina-style hot dog by adding their signature barbecue sauce. The sauce adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor that complements the chili and slaw perfectly. It’s a delicious and satisfying combination that’s sure to please barbecue lovers.

What sets them apart: The addition of their signature barbecue sauce.

A Deeper Dive into Carolina-Style Chili: The Heart of Winston Salem Hot Dogs

We’ve mentioned Carolina-style chili several times, but what exactly is it? This regional specialty is a finely ground, slightly sweet, and deeply flavorful concoction that’s essential to the Winston Salem hot dog experience. Unlike Texas chili, which is typically chunky and spicy, Carolina chili is smooth, almost creamy, and has a subtle sweetness that complements the savory dog and the tangy slaw.

The exact ingredients and preparation methods vary from place to place, but most Carolina chili recipes include ground beef, onions, spices, and a touch of sugar or molasses. Some variations also include vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for added tanginess. The chili is typically cooked for several hours to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.

The best Carolina chili is a carefully balanced blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that elevates the hot dog to a whole new level. It’s a testament to the region’s culinary heritage and a key ingredient in the best hot dogs Winston Salem has to offer.

The Bun: An Underrated Hero of the Hot Dog World

While the dog and the toppings often steal the spotlight, the bun is an equally important component of a great hot dog. A good bun should be soft, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to hold the toppings without falling apart. It should also complement the flavor of the dog without overpowering it.

Many Winston Salem hot dog joints use locally baked buns that are specifically designed for hot dogs. These buns are often slightly sweeter and more tender than mass-produced options. They’re also often toasted or grilled to add a touch of crispness and prevent them from becoming soggy.

A great bun can elevate a hot dog from good to exceptional. It’s an often-overlooked detail that can make a big difference in the overall experience.

Advantages of Indulging in the Best Hot Dogs in Winston Salem

Beyond the delicious taste, indulging in the best hot dogs Winston Salem has to offer provides several other advantages:

Supporting Local Businesses: Many of the hot dog joints on our list are locally owned and operated. By patronizing these establishments, you’re supporting the local economy and helping to preserve the unique character of Winston Salem.
Experiencing Local Culture: Hot dogs are a quintessential American food, and Carolina-style hot dogs are a regional specialty. By trying the best hot dogs in Winston Salem, you’re immersing yourself in the local culture and experiencing a unique culinary tradition.
Affordable Indulgence: Hot dogs are an affordable and accessible treat. You can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Comfort Food Nostalgia: Hot dogs evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. They remind us of childhood memories, summer barbecues, and simpler times.
Social Connection: Sharing a hot dog with friends and family is a great way to connect and create lasting memories.

Q&A: Your Burning Hot Dog Questions Answered

We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about hot dogs in Winston Salem to further enhance your understanding and appreciation of this culinary delight:

What’s the difference between Carolina-style chili and Texas chili? Carolina chili is finely ground, slightly sweet, and less spicy than Texas chili, which is typically chunky and contains beans.
What’s the best type of mustard to use on a Carolina-style hot dog? Yellow mustard is the classic choice, but some people prefer brown or spicy mustard for added flavor.
What’s the ideal way to eat a Carolina-style hot dog? There’s no right or wrong way, but most people prefer to eat them with their hands, enjoying the messy combination of chili, slaw, and mustard.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan hot dog options available in Winston Salem? Yes, some establishments offer vegetarian or vegan hot dogs made from plant-based ingredients.
What’s the best time of day to eat a hot dog? Hot dogs are a versatile food that can be enjoyed at any time of day, from lunch to dinner to late-night snack.
How do I make Carolina-style chili at home? There are many recipes available online, but the key is to use finely ground beef, onions, spices, and a touch of sugar or molasses.
What are some creative toppings to add to a hot dog? Some popular options include bacon, cheese, jalapeños, and sauerkraut.
What’s the best way to store leftover hot dogs? Store leftover hot dogs in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat a hot dog without drying it out? The best way to reheat a hot dog is to simmer it in water or broth for a few minutes until heated through.
What’s the history of hot dogs in Winston Salem? While a definitive history is hard to pinpoint, hot dogs have been a staple in Winston Salem for decades, evolving with the city’s culinary landscape.

Conclusion: Your Hot Dog Adventure Awaits in Winston Salem

Winston Salem’s hot dog scene is a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape that offers something for everyone. From classic Carolina-style dogs to gourmet creations, the city’s hot dog joints are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide a memorable dining experience. We have provided you with a list of the best hot dogs Winston Salem has to offer.

We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the city’s hot dog scene and discover your own personal favorites. So, grab a friend, head out to one of these amazing establishments, and indulge in the deliciousness that Winston Salem has to offer. Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below!