Hot dogs may be a simple street food staple, but regional hot dog variations across the U.S. have transformed them into unique local specialties. From New York to Los Angeles, and even around the world, hot dog styles often reflect the culture and flavors of their home cities. Two of the most distinctive styles come from Chicago and Seattle, each with its own unmistakable flavor profile and loyal fan following.
Chicago and Seattle offer hot dogs that couldn’t be more different — one is a bright, veggie-packed masterpiece, while the other leans into savory creaminess and bold toppings. Yet both highlight the incredible versatility of the humble hot dog. Choosing between the fresh crunch of a Chicago dog or the rich, gooey comfort of Seattle’s version is tricky; both styles have the power to satisfy most hot dog lovers’ palates. Let’s dig into what sets each city’s version apart and how you can spot them among the rest of the hot dogs out there.
Chicago-style hot dogs are loaded with veggies
Chicago-style hot dogs are perhaps the most famous regional variety, known for being as colorful as they are flavorful. The classic Chicago dog begins with an all-beef frankfurter, traditionally steamed or water-simmered, nestled in a poppy seed bun. This choice of preparation helps keep the dog juicy and that soft bun is perfect for soaking up all the toppings to come.
And it’s those toppings that really set a Chicago dog apart. A true Chicago-style hot dog is “dragged through the garden,” a term that refers to its loaded pile of fresh vegetables and condiments. Standard toppings include yellow mustard, bright green sweet pickle relish, chopped onions, tomato slices or wedges, a kosher dill pickle spear, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. Notably, ketchup is never included — it’s practically a culinary sin in Chicago to ask for it.
While this is the traditional setup, some local variations may include grilled dogs instead of steamed or swap in different types of pickles or peppers. But the essence remains: Fresh, tangy, and a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy.
Seattle dogs include an unusual spread
Head northwest to Seattle, and you’ll find a hot dog that breaks all the traditional rules. Seattle-style hot dogs are best known for their surprising signature topping: Cream cheese. This creamy addition might raise eyebrows at first, but one bite explains its popularity.
Seattle dogs typically feature a grilled or split-and-griddled beef hot dog served in a toasted bun that can range from standard white to a sturdier bialy-style bun. The hot dog is slathered with a generous helping of cream cheese, which is often applied using a piping bag or offset spatula for even coverage. The cream cheese melts slightly against the warm dog, creating a rich, tangy base.
Toppings can vary, but the most common additions include sauteed onions, jalapeños, and sometimes cabbage or sauerkraut. Some vendors even add sriracha, barbecue sauce, or grilled bell peppers to give the dog more heat and complexity. The result is a creamy, spicy, and deeply satisfying hot dog that reflects Seattle’s eclectic food scene.
