Where Did Chicago Hot Dogs Originate: A Tasty Tale Of Windy City Delights

The invention of hot dogs is a topic with some historical debate surrounding it. Traditionally, Frankfurt-am-Main in Germany is often credited with originating the frankfurter, a type of hot dog. However, there is a disputed claim that suggests the popular sausage, also known as a dachshund or little-dog sausage, might have been created in the late 1600s by Johann Georghehner, a butcher who lived in Coburg, Germany. This dual attribution has sparked discussions about the true origin of hot dogs within Germany.

What comprises a traditional Chicago-style hot dog? To craft this iconic delicacy, one begins with a steamed poppy seed bun embracing an all-beef frankfurter. This base is then adorned with a classic medley of toppings: a generous drizzle of zesty yellow mustard, a vibrant heap of neon-green relish, a finely chopped assortment of fresh onions, succulent red tomato wedges, and a crisp kosher-style pickle spear. To infuse a spicy kick, a duo of fiery sport peppers is strategically placed atop the ensemble, culminating in a burst of flavor heightened by a final sprinkling of fragrant celery salt. This symphony of ingredients is a quintessential representation of Chicago’s beloved hot dog tradition.