Dub-L-Dog (Demolished)
Chicago, IL
Photo courtesy Dirk Burhans

Dub-L-Dog was one of the countless neighborhood hot dog stands that helped give Chicago its reputation as one of the best hot dog cities in America. Sitting on the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Melrose Street in the Lakeview neighborhood, it was the kind of no-frills place where locals could grab a quick dog, fries, and a drink before heading on their way.

Like so many independent Chicago stands, Dub-L-Dog wasn't flashy. Its simple roadside sign and compact walk-up building fit right into the city's streetscape, serving customers for decades before disappearing as the neighborhood evolved.

UPDATE: Dub-L-Dog closed around 2000, and the building was demolished several years later. A newer commercial building now occupies the corner, and the familiar roadside sign is gone. 06-26

Tasty Dog (Demolished)
Oak Park, IL
Photo courtesy Chibbqking

Tasty Dog was one of those neighborhood hot dog stands that became a tradition for generations of Oak Park residents. The sign proudly proclaimed it served the "World's Finest Hot Dog!," and judging by its loyal following, plenty of customers agreed. Along with classic Chicago dogs, Tasty Dog was known for serving both Depression-style and "Salad Style" hot dogs, giving visitors a choice between two local favorites. Many thanks to Chibbqking for info. 05-09

When redevelopment threatened the original location, the village built a replacement across the street. Tasty Dog reopened there in 2003, continuing its neighborhood tradition. Customers could choose a loaded Salad Style dog or a simpler Depression Dog with mustard, onions, hot peppers and fresh-cut fries. Either way, the menu kept its Chicago identity.

UPDATE: Tasty Dog closed in 2015. The building was later demolished for mixed-use development, and its familiar roadside sign was removed and sold. 06-26

For more information on the Tasty Dog as well as definitions on these styles of Chicago dogs, check out this site.

Dan's Dogs (Gone)
Medina, OH
Photo courtesy Steve Felder

Dan's Dogs was one of those places that never took hot dogs too seriously—in the best possible way. This Medina favorite served more than 65 different varieties, ranging from classic toppings to creations that sounded downright crazy. If you've ever wanted a hot dog with peanut butter, this was the place to get one. 05-09

The restaurant embraced a fun 1950s diner atmosphere with a jukebox, checkerboard décor, and an old-fashioned counter where customers could watch their food being made. Along with the hot dogs, root beer floats and other classic diner treats helped complete the experience.

Dan's Dogs changed owners over the years but kept its quirky personality right up until it closed in 2022. It became one of those local spots people loved because it wasn't afraid to do things a little differently.

UPDATE: Dan's Dogs permanently closed in 2022 after more than 30 years in Medina. The restaurant has since been sold, and the original sign has been removed. 06-26

Don's Hot Dogs
Chicago, IL
Photo courtesy chibbqking

The rooftop mascot at Don’s Hot Dogs in Chicago looks delighted to squirt mustard over itself. Quite a way to advertise lunch—and a good reason to look up before heading inside. With that enormous hot dog handling the sales pitch, passing motorists had little trouble figuring out the specialty. 02-09

The sign proclaimed “Since 1963,” giving this playful neighborhood stand some history behind its oversized greeting. Chicago has plenty of places to order a hot dog, so a memorable rooftop character certainly helped distinguish this one.

UPDATE: Don’s continues operating as Don’s Drive In on South Kedzie Avenue, serving Vienna Beef hot dogs, Polish sausages, Italian beef and other Chicago favorites. The business still proudly dates its beginnings to 1963. The rooftop mascot’s present condition remains unconfirmed. 10-26