Some of Columbus’s most beloved bites have been around for generations—the classic chili-topped dog at that old-school stand, the legendary late-night spot near campus, the ghosts of past festivals still haunting the North Market. But just like new breweries in Franklinton and babies born at Ohio State, fresh contenders are sizzling up the scene. From gourmet sausages with craft beer to Korean-inspired creations, here are the must-try dogs in the 614.
Hot Dog Wally’s
$ | (614) 530-9299 | WEBSITE
Hot Dog Wally’s is known, first and foremost, for their brilliant hot dog creations: things like the all-beef with jalapeño, the classic beef dog, and the spicy dog, which turns out to be a more thrilling combination than you’d think. We also like Hot Dog Wally’s because it looks like a fun spot (and kind of is), but the atmosphere is simple and cool. At prime game time, the small space gets packed and you might be scooting your stool back and forth constantly to let the friendly staff through.
But no one really cares. The lively crowd is too busy throwing back sodas and cheering.
Johnnie’s Tavern
$ | (614) 488-0110 | WEBSITE
If you live near Johnnie’s Tavern, it might already be your second living room. Maybe you even call it “(Your Name)’s Tavern.” This place is reliable for a solo burger or casual hangout in Columbus. Order a local beer, a juicy burger, and crispy fried mushrooms. It also works if you’d like to prove to someone that you know good, classic spots in the neighborhood.
Dirty Frank’s – OSU Campus
$ | (614) 826-0064 | WEBSITE
From the laid-back late-night vibe at the entrance to the quick-bite energy inside, everything at Dirty Frank’s feels perfectly chill—and that includes the hot dogs, which come loaded with fresh toppings and a sauce that ties it all together.
This spot has campus energy and solid hot dogs with classic toppings, but start with the specials on the menu: the Hell is Real special is especially loved and tingles with just the right kick, and the Wednesday $6 dinner special comes with a faithful Chicago dog that’s hard to stop eating, even as some might find the relish a bit too generous. Then come back to delve into the rest of the menu for a no-pressure bite.
Mike’s mobile lunches
$ | (614) 512-8298 | WEBSITE
Mike’s Mobile Lunches serves some of our favorite quick bites in the area, including massive, delicious pizza slices and full pies that offer incredible value. Count on this friendly food truck whenever you’re craving a fast, satisfying meal with upbeat service. The portions are generous and the atmosphere stays consistently cheerful.
Myungrang Hotdog Columbus
$ | (614) 754-8478 | WEBSITE
There are a lot of Columbus food archetypes (buckeye fans at Skyline, late-night students at Dirty Frank’s), but our personal favorite is people grabbing a quick, messy treat at Myungrang Hotdog. This spot is the kind of place where you try something new every time—for us, it’s always the Korean corndog and squid ink dog with a sprinkle of sugar, both uniquely crispy and satisfying.
The prices are cheap, but in this scene, paying just $4-6 for a hot dog that’s bigger than expected is just part of the fun.
Lil J’s: good food on the go
$$$ | (614) 321-5007 | WEBSITE
There’s a lot of good breakfast spots in this part of town, but the first place we send anyone who regularly utters the words ‘extra salsa, please’ is Lil J’s. This quick-service restaurant is run by a friendly owner who ensures attentive service, before he gifted Columbus with some of the best chorizo breakfast burritos and Buffalo chicken dip in Ohio.
They’ve made the most of the limited space with a few picnic benches outside, but this place would still be buzzing and full of brunch-goers without any of that. All the ambiance it needs comes from the lively vibe and the crunch of tater tots at every table.
The Good Frank
The Good Frank offers a straightforward, modern counter-service setup that prioritizes quality over flashy decor—think clean lines and minimal branding that lets the food speak for itself. We’ll embrace the simplicity, because these natural hot dogs deliver exactly what matters: plump, juicy, snappy links with a noticeably cleaner, more vibrant flavor thanks to the absence of processing and fillers. Each bite practically begs for classic toppings like jalapeños or a swipe of mustard.
Stop in for a quick bite and see if you can resist ordering two of each kind, because one hot dog just leaves you craving another—and maybe a well-packaged side to go with it.
Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace
$ | (614) 824-4673 | WEBSITE
Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace is the answer to the perpetually hot question, ‘Where do I get a great hot dog in Columbus?’ It’s just a few steps from the downtown buzz and they’ve been making creative dogs with local beers since 2009. Try their special Alex-style tater tots with chili and cheese or build your own dog, and get some onion rings at the end. Dirty Frank’s is consistently busy and crowded, with mostly casual seating, so it’s a bit of a squeeze for a large group.
Ritzy’s
$ | (614) 754-8960 | WEBSITE
Ritzy’s is a burger joint with that old-fashioned charm, so you can imagine the level of greasy goodness on display. Red vinyl booths and checkered floors give the place a nostalgic feel, and you’ll hear families laughing over milkshakes near the counter. Sit at a table and you can easily pretend you’re having a classic American meal—especially once you have their crispy-edged smash burger and hot shoestring fries on the table.
The Ritzy with cheese comes in around $12 with fries, and while the place could use a good scrub, the friendly service and tasty food make it worth the visit.
Loops
$ | (614) 670-8808 | WEBSITE
Loops is a Chicago-inspired joint in Columbus that’s become a neighborhood standby. Like its authentic Windy City counterparts, this place has a nice outdoor patio, but you’ll often see a crowd of hungry locals waiting to order solid, fresh, and tasty food like the Italian beef sandwich, which pairs perfectly with the flavorful au jus, as well as the Loops Dog made with a steamed Vienna beef hot dog and topped with classic Chicago ingredients.
If you’re looking for a more shareable side, pick up the cheesy and hearty chili cheese fries. The friendly and helpful staff serve up these authentic Chicago favorites in a clean restaurant with Chicago-themed decor, making it a go-to spot worth the limited parking behind the building.
Dad’s Coneys and “Burrito” Wraps
$ | (614) 487-0255 | WEBSITE
Dad’s Coneys and “Burrito” Wraps, which started in Columbus, is one of the most reliable spots for a coney in the city, if not in the whole state. Their classic with onions and cheese is fresh and flavorful at the same time, and made with top-tier ingredients. Get one of those, and for something a little out of the ordinary, add on their super cheesy burrito wrap.
Dad’s Coneys always works for a quick family meal, or you can brave a short walk over to the outdoor seating for your next lunch—you’ll get the friendly service you deserve, trust us.
Lui’s Concessions
$ | (614) 204-0010 | WEBSITE
This Columbus institution with its classic street food and bustling energy has been serving its renowned Philly steak sandwich since Menards was just another hardware store down the road. If you haven’t been to this iconic concession stand, there are a few things you should know: it will inevitably have a line, it’s incredibly affordable, and you need to try the greasy, cheesy sandwich that everyone raves about.
And once you’ve been, you’ll think about going back every time you crave something hearty, satisfying, or just plain delicious.
Village Coney
$ | (614) 445-9633 | WEBSITE
This cozy spot is our favorite hot dog joint in Columbus, and it’s also one of the best in the whole city. Your friends, your family, and all food fans will approve of the classic coneys here, which are inexplicably juicy and flavorful. Get them along with mini meatball subs, burgers, and a couple more affordable but satisfying salads and chicken sandwiches.
Five Guys
$ | (614) 855-3500 | WEBSITE
The arrival of Five Guys in Columbus felt like a major fast-food event, right up there with the return of the classic burger joint or a beloved hot dog stand opening a new location. Stop by this casual spot, where a cheeseburger loaded with fresh jalapeno rings might be the best $8.50 you can spend on a quick meal in the area. This straightforward setup is geared towards takeout, but you can enjoy a basket of those famously plentiful fries at one of the tables if you like.
Or take your food to go, and savor your perfectly cooked burger and thick shake on your next road trip.
Dad’s Coneys and Wraps Graceland
$ | (614) 396-7141 | WEBSITE
Great hot dog joints serve coneys that are so distractingly delicious you might forget your own phone number—but the best ones account for all of your senses. A visit to Dad’s Coneys and Wraps Graceland is as much about the scent of that 50-year-old chili recipe in your nostrils as it is the Angus beef hot dogs parading into your stomach. There are two different ways to enjoy things here.
At the main counter, the owner often runs the show with his incredibly kind staff, and in the casual dining area, you’ll find cheese coneys made with that famous chili and tater tots with queso that come highly recommended. If you’re not quite prepared to drop $15 on one of the state’s best cheese coneys with all the fixings, try their loose meat sandwiches instead, where you’ll find affordable prices and that same welcoming atmosphere that makes customers travel long distances just for a taste.
Tony’s Coneys
$ | (614) 878-7353 | WEBSITE
For a quick bite, or a satisfying meal on the far west side, look no further than Tony’s Coneys. The cozy, vintage-filled diner with a $12 average meal price first opened decades ago, and it’s now run by the friendly team. The food here draws from classic American cooking, in dishes like the perfect double cheeseburger, crispy fries, and a thick chocolate shake. The service is quick, the ice cream is creamy, and the low hum of diner chatter runs through the day.
Tasty Dawg
$ | (614) 962-6967 | WEBSITE
Remember this lively hot dog spot from the Tasty Dawg crew for your next casual meal featuring the Philly dog, loaded red potatoes, and soaking up the friendly energy. Each of the popular menu items has a slightly different appeal. If you’re with a friend, try the South of the Border dawg. When you’re showing visitors around Columbus, the classic Chicago dog with chili potatoes makes a satisfying stop after a day of exploring the area.
Dirty Frank’s Worthington – Carryout/Delivery
$ | (614) 396-8192 | WEBSITE
You can’t really talk about Columbus hot dogs without at least mentioning Dirty Frank’s. Yes, this is a casual and affordable take-out spot specializing in classic dogs and vegetarian favorites. But a meal here is also exceptional. In addition to their creative hot dog combinations, Dirty Frank’s also has delicious vegan dogs from Vida’s Plant Based Butcher.
In case you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go experience that’s a smidge more convenient than what happens at the downtown location, you can get carryout or delivery from this North side spot.
Skyline Chili
$ | (614) 914-8434 | WEBSITE
Columbus has plenty of spots for a solid hot dog. But Skyline Chili stands out because of the Cincinnati-style chili. Each meal costs around $12 and comes with a Coney dog, a 4-way chili plate, and the freedom to customize with onions or cheese. The space at Skyline Chili is cozy—it’s a clean dining area built around a straightforward layout. But as you dig into your meal, you won’t even notice your surroundings. Bring the family or just yourself.