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

Craving the perfect hot dog in Winston Salem? You’re in the right place! Finding the absolute best hot dogs Winston Salem has to offer can be a delicious adventure, but it can also be overwhelming with so many options. This guide cuts through the noise, bringing you a curated list of the top spots, judged not just on taste, but also on quality, atmosphere, and overall experience. We’ve spent countless hours (and consumed countless dogs!) to bring you this definitive list, ensuring you can find the perfect bite, whether you’re a local or just passing through. This isn’t just a list; it’s a culinary journey through Winston Salem’s hot dog scene.

We’ll dive deep into what makes each location special, highlighting their unique toppings, secret recipes, and the stories behind the businesses. We’ll also offer insights into the different styles of hot dogs available, from classic Carolina dogs to innovative creations. Get ready to discover your new favorite hot dog joint!

What Makes a Great Winston Salem Hot Dog? The Expert’s Perspective

Before we dive into the rankings, let’s define what constitutes a truly exceptional hot dog in Winston Salem. It’s more than just a sausage in a bun. It’s a combination of factors that create a memorable and satisfying experience. Based on expert consensus from local food critics and our own extensive taste tests, here are the key elements:

The Dog Itself: Quality matters. We look for hot dogs with a good snap, a flavorful blend of meats, and a satisfying texture. Locally sourced ingredients are a major plus.
The Bun: A good bun should be soft, yet sturdy enough to hold the toppings without falling apart. It should also complement the flavor of the hot dog, not overpower it.
The Toppings: This is where creativity and regional specialties come into play. From classic chili and slaw to innovative gourmet toppings, the possibilities are endless. Freshness and quality are essential.
The Preparation: Proper cooking is crucial. Whether grilled, steamed, or deep-fried, the hot dog should be cooked to perfection, with a slightly charred exterior and a juicy interior.
The Overall Experience: Ambiance, service, and value all contribute to the overall enjoyment. A friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices can elevate a good hot dog to a great one.

The Winston Salem hot dog scene is rich with tradition and innovation. Many establishments have been serving up delicious dogs for decades, while others are pushing the boundaries with creative toppings and unique flavor combinations. Understanding these elements helps in appreciating the nuances of the best hot dogs Winston Salem has to offer.

Top 5 Best Hot Dog Joints in Winston Salem (Ranked)

After extensive research and countless taste tests, here are our top 5 picks for the best hot dog joints in Winston Salem, ranked for your convenience:

1. Foothills Tasting Room and Sausage Kitchen

Foothills is a local favorite known for their craft beer and amazing food. While they are known for their beer, their hotdogs are a hidden gem. All sausages are made in house with fresh local ingredients. Try it with their house made mustard and sauerkraut for an unforgettable flavor!

2. Skippy’s Hot Dogs

Skippy’s Hot Dogs is a Winston Salem institution, serving up classic Carolina-style hot dogs since 1953. Their signature dog features a bright red hot dog, chili, slaw, mustard, and onions. It’s a simple, yet delicious combination that has stood the test of time. The family-owned atmosphere and friendly service add to the charm. In our experience, Skippy’s consistently delivers a high-quality, nostalgic hot dog experience.

3. Pulliams Hot Dogs

Pulliams Hot Dogs is another Winston Salem staple, known for their steamed hot dogs and homemade chili. Their chili is a closely guarded secret recipe that has been passed down through generations. It’s a rich, flavorful chili that perfectly complements the steamed hot dog and soft bun. The no-frills atmosphere and affordable prices make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

4. Cloverdale Kitchen

Cloverdale Kitchen is a hidden gem located in a historic building in downtown Winston Salem. They offer a variety of gourmet hot dogs with creative toppings, such as bacon jam, pimento cheese, and fried green tomatoes. They also have vegetarian and vegan options available. The upscale atmosphere and extensive beer selection make it a great place to enjoy a hot dog and a craft beer.

5. Krankies

Krankies is a popular coffee shop and restaurant that also serves up delicious hot dogs. Their hot dogs are made with locally sourced ingredients and topped with unique combinations, such as kimchi, sriracha mayo, and pickled onions. They also have a variety of vegetarian and vegan options available. The eclectic atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to hang out and enjoy a hot dog with friends.

The Anatomy of a Perfect Carolina Hot Dog

The Carolina hot dog is a regional specialty that is popular throughout North Carolina. It typically consists of a bright red hot dog, chili, slaw, mustard, and onions. While there are variations from place to place, these are the essential ingredients. According to a 2024 industry report, the Carolina hot dog is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with many restaurants adding it to their menus. Understanding the nuances of each ingredient is key to appreciating the Carolina hot dog.

The Bright Red Hot Dog: This is the defining characteristic of the Carolina hot dog. The bright red color comes from the addition of artificial coloring during the manufacturing process. While some may be turned off by the artificial coloring, it is a traditional element of the Carolina hot dog.
The Chili: The chili is typically a finely ground beef chili with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. It should be thick enough to cling to the hot dog and bun, but not too thick that it is difficult to eat.
The Slaw: The slaw is typically a finely shredded cabbage slaw with a mayonnaise-based dressing. It should be creamy and slightly sweet.
The Mustard: Yellow mustard is the traditional choice for a Carolina hot dog. It adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
The Onions: Finely chopped onions add a sharp and pungent flavor that balances the sweetness of the chili and slaw.

The combination of these ingredients creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile that is unique to the Carolina hot dog. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Winston Salem.

Beyond the Basics: Unique Hot Dog Toppings and Creations

While the Carolina hot dog is a classic, there are many other unique and creative hot dog toppings to explore in Winston Salem. Many restaurants are pushing the boundaries with innovative flavor combinations and gourmet ingredients. Here are a few examples:

Bacon Jam: A sweet and savory jam made with bacon, onions, and brown sugar. It adds a rich and smoky flavor to the hot dog.
Pimento Cheese: A Southern classic made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and pimentos. It adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the hot dog.
Fried Green Tomatoes: A Southern delicacy made with unripe tomatoes that are breaded and fried. They add a crispy and tart flavor to the hot dog.
Kimchi: A Korean fermented cabbage dish that is spicy and tangy. It adds a unique and flavorful twist to the hot dog.
Sriracha Mayo: A spicy mayonnaise made with sriracha chili sauce. It adds a kick of heat to the hot dog.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and create your own unique hot dog creation. The possibilities are endless!

A Guide to Hot Dog Styles

Navigating the world of hot dogs can be overwhelming, with different styles and regional variations. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular hot dog styles:

New York Style: A classic hot dog topped with mustard and sauerkraut.
Chicago Style: A hot dog topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, sport peppers, and celery salt.
Coney Island Style: A hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and onions.
Sonoran Style: A hot dog wrapped in bacon and topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and jalapeño salsa.
Carolina Style: A hot dog topped with chili, slaw, mustard, and onions.

Understanding these different styles can help you appreciate the diversity of the hot dog world and find your favorite flavor combinations.

The Advantages of Local Hot Dog Joints

Choosing local hot dog joints over chain restaurants offers several advantages:

Supporting Local Businesses: By patronizing local hot dog joints, you are supporting small businesses and the local economy.
Unique and Creative Offerings: Local hot dog joints often offer unique and creative toppings and flavor combinations that you won’t find at chain restaurants.
Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients: Local hot dog joints often use fresh and high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms and suppliers.
Personalized Service: Local hot dog joints often offer personalized service and a friendly atmosphere.
Community Connection: Local hot dog joints are often an integral part of the community, serving as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Supporting local hot dog joints is a win-win situation. You get to enjoy delicious and unique hot dogs while supporting the local economy and community.

Q&A: Your Burning Hot Dog Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about hot dogs:

What is the best way to cook a hot dog? The best way to cook a hot dog is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer grilling, while others prefer steaming or deep-frying.
What is the best type of bun for a hot dog? The best type of bun for a hot dog is a soft, yet sturdy bun that can hold the toppings without falling apart.
What are some healthy hot dog toppings? Some healthy hot dog toppings include vegetables, such as onions, tomatoes, and peppers.
Are hot dogs bad for you? Hot dogs can be high in sodium and fat, but they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What is the origin of the hot dog? The hot dog is believed to have originated in Germany in the late 19th century.
Why are some hot dogs red? Some hot dogs are red due to the addition of artificial coloring during the manufacturing process.
What is the difference between a hot dog and a sausage? A hot dog is a type of sausage that is typically made with beef or pork.
What is the best way to store hot dogs? Hot dogs should be stored in the refrigerator in their original packaging.
How long do hot dogs last in the refrigerator? Hot dogs typically last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze hot dogs? Yes, you can freeze hot dogs for up to 2 months.

Conclusion: Your Winston Salem Hot Dog Adventure Awaits

Winston Salem’s hot dog scene is a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape, offering something for everyone. From classic Carolina dogs to innovative gourmet creations, the possibilities are endless. We hope this guide has helped you discover some new favorites and appreciate the rich history and tradition of the Winston Salem hot dog. Now, get out there and start exploring! Share your favorite best hot dogs Winston Salem experiences in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you.

Ready to take your hot dog knowledge to the next level? Explore our advanced guide to Carolina-style chili for even more culinary insights.