Comparing Beer, Hot Dog, and Ticket Prices at Major League Baseball Parks
As Opening Day for baseball draws near, all eyes turn to hometown teams and the potential of watching them win a World Series championship. As you eagerly buy tickets to enjoy a game in the stadium, you can probably already taste savory hot dogs and ice-cold beer from your favorite concession stand. Unfortunately, ballparks were not immune to the rising prices of this past year, causing all-time highs for tickets and concessions. If you’re wondering how much it costs to go to a baseball game and enjoy a beer and a hot dog or two, look no further than our "Comparing Hot Dog and Beer Prices at Baseball Parks" infographic. We break down the cheapest and most expensive ballparks for the 2024 season.
Ever wonder how much it costs to buy a beer at Fenway Park or a hot dog at Coors Field? We crunched the numbers for all thirty major league ballparks and compiled this illustrated guide for baseball lovers across the country.
Which Ballparks Charge the Least (And the Most) for a Beer?
Beer is a staple of sports stadiums, but some ballparks sell it for far cheaper than others. Below, we compiled the highest- and lowest-priced beers you can buy at baseball stadiums across the country.
Cheapest Baseball Parks for Beer
Once again, Coors Field holds its beer prices steady at $3 for one beer. Though the league average is $6.98, several ballparks price their beer well below this number. Check out this list of stadiums that sell beer for less than $5.
- Colorado Rockies (Coors Field): $3
- Toronto Blue Jays (Rogers Centre): $4.44
- Los Angeles Angels (Angel Stadium of Anaheim): $4.50
- Arizona Diamondbacks (Chase Field): $4.99
- Los Angeles Angels (Angel Stadium of Anaheim): $5
- Minnesota Twins (Target Field): $4.99
- Atlanta Braves (Truist Park): $4.99
Most Expensive Baseball Parks for Beer
Nationals Park unseats Citi Field as the most expensive ballpark to buy a beer, raising their prices from last year by $5. Beer prices have skyrocketed this year, so you might want to wait and have a glass after the game to save some money. Check out the following ballparks that all charge more than $10 for beer.
- Washington Nationals (Nationals Park): $14.99
- Baltimore Orioles (Oriole Park at Camden Yards): $10.99
- Chicago White Sox (Guaranteed Rate Field): $10.50
- Boston Red Sox (Fenway Park): $10.50
- Chicago Cubs (Wrigley Field): $10.49
Fun Fact: An estimated 14.6 million beers (about 1.2 million gallons) are sold at major league stadiums every year. That’s enough to fill 1.7 Olympic-size swimming pools.
Which Ballparks Charge the Least (And the Most) for a Hot Dog?
Hot dogs are as fundamental to baseball games as throwing and catching, but it might not be worth the high cost this season. The league average has risen to $5.32, but some places still keep their hot dogs affordable. We’ve done the research for you and determined which ballparks charge the least and most for hot dogs so you can budget for the big game.
Cheapest Baseball Parks for Hot Dogs
Despite rising concession prices across baseball, many ballparks still offer inexpensive hot dogs to allow you to enjoy this gameday ritual without breaking the bank. Chase Field retains the honor of offering the cheapest hot dog with Yankee Stadium not far behind. Check out the stadiums that offer hot dogs for less than $4.
- Arizona Diamondbacks (Chase Field): $2.99
- New York Yankees (Yankee Stadium): $3
- Miami Marlins (LoanDepot Park): $3
- Minnesota Twins (Target Field): $3.99
- Atlanta Braves (Truist Park): $3.99
Most Expensive Baseball Parks for Hot Dogs
If you’re looking to save some money in the stadium, you’re better off skipping the hot dog and sticking with peanuts and cracker jacks at these ballparks. Once again, Petco Park and Oracle Park top the list as the most expensive stadiums selling hot dogs. Check out this list of stadiums that offer hot dogs for $7 or more, which is higher than the league average price for beer.
- San Diego Padres (Petco Park): $7.75
- San Francisco Giants (Oracle Park): $7.50
- Washington Nationals (Nationals Park): $7
- Colorado Rockies (Coors Field): $7
- Texas Rangers (Globe Life Field): $7
- New York Mets (Citi Field): $7
Fun Fact: An estimated 22 million hot dogs are sold yearly at major league ballparks. Lined up from end-to-end, that’s 3,100 miles, or about the distance from Boston to San Francisco.
What’s the Total Amount You Would Spend at a Game?
If you add up the cost of a ticket, a hot dog, and a beer, the total amount adds up very quickly. We calculated the total cost for three of the most affordable games compared to three of the most expensive stadiums to attend.
Kansas City Royals (Kauffman Stadium)
- Ticket: $42
- Beer: $5
- Hot Dog: $4
- Total = $51
The Kansas City Royals slide in as the team offering the cheapest gameday experience in 2024, allowing you to buy a ticket, beer, and hot dog for only $51. With prices well below the league average, Kauffman Stadium is well worth a visit.
Cleveland Guardians (Progressive Field)
- Ticket: $50
- Beer: $5
- Hot Dog: $4.50
- Total = $59.50
As the first Ohio team to make this list, the Cleveland Guardians provide a fun-filled day at an affordable price. This team has been hot in recent seasons with 8 winning seasons in the last 10 years and 5 playoff berths in the last 8 years.
Cincinnati Reds (Great American Ball Park)
- Ticket: $52
- Beer: $7.49
- Hot Dog: $6.29
- Total = $65.78
Not to be outdone by their cousins in east Ohio, the Cincinnati Reds manage to offer a relatively inexpensive trip to a ballgame despite their high concession prices. The on-field action with their dynamic roster should make skipping the concession stand easy.
San Francisco Giants (Oracle Park)
- Ticket: $89
- Beer: $9
- Hot Dog: $7.50
- Total = $105.50
Oracle Park is a gorgeous venue overlooking the San Francisco Bay, but their gameday prices are far less appealing. High concession prices are overshadowed by tickets nearing $90, making them a one-time stop on your ballpark tour.
New York Yankees (Yankee Stadium)
- Ticket: $98
- Beer: $6
- Hot Dog: $3
- Total = $107
Despite offering the third-cheapest baseball experience in 2023, watching a game and concessions at Yankee Stadium now costs over $100. Their streak of 31 winning seasons is little consolation for the high gameday cost, making them a team best enjoyed from your couch.
Los Angeles Dodgers (Dodger Stadium)
- Ticket: $115
- Beer: $7
- Hot Dog: $6.50
- Total = $128.50
After offering several record-breaking contracts in the off-season, the Los Angeles Dodgers raised their prices significantly to see these superstars live. With a total nearing $130, you should book tickets to watch the Dodgers play on the road.
What’s the Average Attendance for All Teams?
In-person attendance has grown steadily in the years after Covid-19, and the 2023 season hosted nearly 30,000 fans per game. We expect 2024 to be even more enjoyable, making ballparks crowded once again. Below, we've listed the average attendance for all baseball teams for the past three years.
- 2023 Average Attendance: 29,293
- 2022 Average Attendance: 26,808
- 2021 Average Attendance: 18,900
Fun Fact: The most expensive ticket ever sold went for $1.7 million in a 2016 showdown between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians (now Guardians).
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Top 10 Styles of Beer
Beer is one of the oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic beverages in the world, with over 9,000 craft breweries in the U.S. alone. Gaining an understanding of the different types of beer available can be the key to success if you’re planning to start your own brewery. From their unique flavor profiles and food pairings, we’ll break down the most popular beer types so you can make recommendations and create a beer list your customers will love. Shop All Brewery Equipment Click below to learn about the different types of beer: IPA Stout Porter Pilsner Wheat Beer Pale Ale German Bock Brown Ale Belgian-Style Ale Specialty Beer Cooking with Beer Ales vs Lagers There are two main categories of beer - ales and lagers. The difference between ales and lagers comes down to their temperature and fermenting yeast. Ales are brewed at warmer temperatures than lagers with top-fermenting yeast, typically between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit. This results in a faster fermentation process, which imparts a more complex flavor profile that can range from fruity and spicy to bitter and hoppy. Most craft beers will have ales as their base because of the rapid fermenting and ease of temperature control. Lagers are known for their crisp, clean taste and are typically brewed at cooler temperatures, around 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit, using bottom-fermenting yeast. Lagers are known for their smooth and refreshing qualities, making them popular choices for easy-drinking beers in the summer. While ales and lagers differ in brewing techniques and flavor profiles, both types of beer offer a wide range of options for consumers and businesses alike. ABV vs IBU ABV, or alcohol by volume, measures the alcohol content in beer and is expressed as a percentage. It indicates the strength of the beer and can range from 3% in light beers to over 10% in stronger brews. IBU, or International Bitterness Units, measures the bitterness of beer from hops and is a scale that typically ranges from 0 to 100 or more. The ABV and IBU of a beer can help determine its flavor profile and balance, with higher ABV beers often having more intense flavors and higher IBU beers being more bitter. Types of Beer When it comes to choosing the right beer for your establishment, it's essential to understand the various types available to cater to different preferences and occasions. From bold and hoppy IPAs to rich and creamy stouts, the world of beer offers a diverse array of options to suit every palate. We’ll explore the top 10 styles of beer to help you choose the ones that are best for your business. <iframe scrolling="no" width="392" height="226" src="/v/?num=12750&width=600&height=500&embed=1" frameborder="0"></iframe> 1. IPA IPA, or India Pale Ale, is a popular beer style known for its bold hop flavors and aromas. This style originated in England in the 19th century and has since evolved into various subcategories, including American IPA, Double IPA, and New England IPA. One defining characteristic of IPAs is their high hop bitterness, which provides a distinct and often intense floral, citrus, or piney flavor profile. This bitterness is balanced by a strong malt backbone, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that appeals to many beer enthusiasts. American IPAs are typically more hop-forward than their English counterparts. These beers often have a higher alcohol content and a more pronounced bitterness, making them a favorite among craft beer aficionados looking for a bold and flavorful drinking experience. Double IPAs, also known as Imperial IPAs, have an even higher alcohol content and hop additions. This creates a more robust and complex flavor profile that can range from resinous and dank to tropical and fruity. New England IPAs are characterized by their hazy appearance and creamy mouthfeel. These beers are known for their low bitterness and intense hop aroma, perfect for those seeking a softer and more approachable IPA experience. IPA ABV: 5.0-14.0% IPA IBU: 30-100 Types of IPAs: American IPA, Imperial or Double IPA, English IPA IPA Brands: Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, Russian River Brewing Company's Pliny the Elder, Goose Island India Pale Ale IPA Pairings: American cuisine, Indian cuisines, fish, sharp cheeses IPA Serving Temperature: 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit 2. Stout Stout is a dark, rich beer known for its robust flavors and creamy mouthfeel. Originating in the United Kingdom, stout has gained popularity worldwide for its distinctive color and smooth finish. Stouts feature mid-to-high alcohol levels and pair well with a variety of foods, including hearty dishes like roasted meats, stews, and rich desserts. One of the most well-known types of stout is Irish dry stout made popular by Guinness. This style is characterized by the visual cascading effect in the glass and its dry, roasted malt flavors with hints of coffee and chocolate. Another popular variation is the oatmeal stout. These are brewed with oats, which contribute to a smooth, silky mouthfeel. Oatmeal stouts have a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of roasted coffee, chocolate, and sometimes a hint of sweetness. They are popular for their complexity and drinkability. Imperial stout, on the other hand, is a bold and intense variation of the stout style. This beer is characterized by its high alcohol content, rich malt flavors, and complex aromas. Imperial stouts often feature notes of dark fruits, roasted coffee, and bittersweet chocolate. Stout ABV: 3.8-8.9% Stout IBU: 20-60 Types of Stouts: Irish Dry Stout, Oatmeal Stout, American Imperial Stout Stout Brands: Guinness Draught, Troegs JavaHead Stout, Stoudts Fat Dog Imperial Stout Stout Pairings: Heavy foods like beef and stew, oysters, chocolate, brie cheese Stout Serving Temperature: 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit 3. Porter Porter is a dark and robust style of beer with a rich history dating back to the 18th century in England. Originally popular among the working class, this beer has since evolved into a beloved style among beer enthusiasts worldwide. Similar to stout, porter is characterized by its deep brown-to-black color. The way porter differs from stout is that it uses malted unroasted barley instead of unmalted roasted barley. This gives porter its complex flavor profile that often includes notes of caramel, toffee, and dark fruit, making it less intense than stout. American imperial porter is a bold and robust variation of the traditional porter style. Known for its higher alcohol content and intense flavors, this beer often features rich notes of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee. English brown porter offers a more moderate take on the porter style, with a balanced flavor profile that showcases the beer's malt character, creating a smooth and easy-drinking experience. Robust porter strikes a harmonious balance between the two, with a medium-to-full body and a robust malt presence. This style is known for its smooth mouthfeel and well-rounded flavor profile. Porter ABV: 4.5-12.0% Porter IBU: 20-50 Types of Porters: American Imperial Porter, English Brown Porter, Robust Porter Porter Brands: Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Porter, Shipyard Longfellow Winter Ale, Smuttynose Robust Porter Porter Pairings: American cuisine, English cuisine, barbecue, tiramisu, asiago cheese Porter Serving Temperature: 40-55 degrees Fahrenheit 4. Pilsner Pilsners are light, crisp lagers with a clean, refreshing taste. They are known for their golden color and balanced bitterness. This style of beer became popular in what is now the Czech Republic and Germany. They are perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses. The classic American lager is a type of pilsner that is widely consumed in the United States. This beer is light-bodied, with a clean and crisp taste that makes it a go-to choice for many beer drinkers for celebrations like Mardi Gras. German Pilsner, also known as pils or pilsener, is characterized by its pale golden color, floral hop aroma, and balanced bitterness. German pilsners are traditionally brewed using noble hops, which give the beer a subtle yet complex flavor profile. Czech or Bohemian pilsner is another popular variation of pilsner known for its rich malt character, spicy hop aroma, and crisp finish. Czech pilsners are brewed using Saaz hops, which impart a distinctive herbal and earthy flavor to the beer. Pilsner ABV: 3.2-5.6% Pilsner IBU: 15-45 Types of Pilsners: American Lager, German Pilsner, Czech or Bohemian Pilsner Pilsner Brands: Budweiser, Troegs Sunshine Pils, Dogfish Head Piercing Pils Pilsner Pairings: German cuisine, spicy food, poultry, fish, spicy cheese Serving Temperature: 40-45 degrees Fahrenheit 5. Wheat Beer Wheat beer is a popular style of beer made by using wheat as the malt, giving the beer its signature refreshing and crisp taste. With its tangy flavors, brewers often add seasonal fruits to wheat beer to create an enticing presentation. American pale wheat beer is a light and easy-drinking beer that is brewed with a significant proportion of wheat in addition to barley. This style is known for its pale color, mild hop bitterness, and subtle wheat flavor, making it a popular choice for those looking for a refreshing and approachable beer. Berliner Weisse is a traditional German wheat beer that is known for its light body and high carbonation. This style is typically low in alcohol content and is often served with a flavored syrup, such as raspberry or woodruff, to balance out the sourness of the beer. Hefeweizen is a classic German wheat beer that is brewed with a large proportion of wheat and a distinctive yeast strain that produces flavors of banana and clove. Hefeweizens are known for their cloudy appearance, full body, and effervescent carbonation. This style of wheat beer is often unfiltered, allowing the yeast to remain in the beer and contribute to its unique flavor profile. Wheat Beer ABV: 2.8-5.6% Wheat Beer IBU: 3-35 Types of Wheat Beers: American Pale Wheat, Berliner Weisse, Hefeweizen Wheat Beer Brands: Blue Moon Summer Honey Wheat, Freetail Brewing Company Yo Soy Un Berliner, Magic Hat Circus Boy Wheat Beer Pairings: German cuisine, Mexican cuisine, spicy food, seafood, brick cheeses Wheat Beer Serving Temperature: 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit Back to Top 6. Pale Ale Pale ale is a popular beer style known for its balanced flavors, offering a mix of hoppy bitterness and malt sweetness. They are lower in alcohol content than IPAs and pair well with a wide range of dishes. American pale ale is a hop-forward beer with a moderate malt backbone. It typically features American hop varieties that impart citrus, pine, and floral notes to the brew. These ales are known for their refreshing bitterness and bright aromatics. Blonde ale is a lighter and more delicate version of pale ale, with a focus on crisp, clean flavors. They are characterized by their pale golden color and subtle malt sweetness. These beers are easy-drinking and versatile, making them a popular choice for those new to craft beer or looking for a lighter option. English pale ale is a classic beer style with a rich malt profile and earthy hop character. They often showcase traditional English hop varieties, which creates a balance between bitterness and biscuity malt flavors. Pale Ale ABV: 4.0-5.5% Pale Ale IBU: 15-45 Types of Pale Ales: American Pale Ale, Blonde Ale, English Pale Ale Pale Ale Brands: Smuttynose Shoals Pale Ale, Victory Brewing Company Summer Love, Flying Fish Extra Pale Ale Pale Ale Pairings: Italian cuisine, English cuisine, fish, fried foods, pepper jack cheese Pale Ale Serving Temperature: 35-45 degrees Fahrenheit 7. German Bock Bock beer is a traditional German style that has gained popularity worldwide for its rich malt character and robust flavors. They are higher in alcohol content and can range from pale to dark in color with notes of caramel and toast. This style is often enjoyed as a winter beer for its warming qualities and pairs well with rich and savory foods. Traditional bock is a strong lager known for its malty sweetness and deep amber-to-dark brown color. Weizenbock is a wheat bock beer that combines the characteristics of a traditional bock with the fruity and spicy notes of a wheat beer. It is known for its hazy appearance and complex flavor profile, which includes banana, clove, and bubblegum notes from the yeast strain used during fermentation. Maibock, also known as Helles bock, is a pale bock beer that is lighter in color and body compared to traditional bock. Maibock is brewed with a higher proportion of pale malts, giving it a clean and crisp profile with a noticeable malt sweetness. This style of bock beer is often brewed in the springtime and enjoyed during the month of May, making it the perfect addition to any beer garden. Bock ABV: 6.0-9.5% Bock IBU: 15-35 Types of Bock Beer: Traditional Bock, Weizenbock, Maibock Bock Beer Brands: Samuel Adams Winter Lager, Southern Tier Brewing Company Goat Boy, Capital Brewery Maibock Bock Beer Pairings: Italian cuisine, German cuisine, fish, shellfish, asiago, Swiss cheese Bock Beer Serving Temperature: 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit 8. Brown Ale Brown ale is a malt-forward beer with a deep amber-to-dark brown color and flavors of caramel, nuts, and toffee. This style is smooth and easy to drink, making it a great option for customers looking for a more approachable beer. English brown ale, also known as Northern English brown ale, is known for its malt-forward profile, showcasing toasty, biscuity, and caramel flavors with minimal hop bitterness. English brown ales are typically lower in alcohol content and have a lighter body compared to the American style, offering a smooth and easy drinking experience. American brown ale is a modern take on the traditional English brown ale, characterized by a balanced flavor profile that combines malty sweetness with moderate hop bitterness. This style typically features a medium body and a slightly higher alcohol content compared to its English counterpart. American brown ales often showcases notes of caramel, chocolate, and nutty flavors, making them a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts. Brown Ale ABV: 4.0-6.3% Brown Ale IBU: 15-45 Types of Brown Ale: English Brown Ale, American Brown Ale Brown Ale Brands: Newcastle Brown Ale, City Star Brewing Bandit Brown, Brooklyn Brewery Brown Ale Brown Ale Pairings: American cuisine, beef stew, red meat, poultry, gouda cheese Brown Ale Serving Temperature: 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit 9. Belgian Ale Belgian beers are known for their spiced fruity flavors and high alcohol content. Despite their high ABV, Belgians are usually low in bitterness. Belgian-style ale encompasses a wide range of styles, from fruity and spicy to complex and yeasty ales. These beers are often brewed with unique yeast strains, resulting in distinctive flavors, aromas, and high carbonation. Belgian pale ale is a style known for its balanced maltiness and hop bitterness. It typically features fruity esters and spicy notes, with a moderate alcohol content. Belgian tripel is a strong ale with a higher alcohol content compared to other Belgian styles. It is characterized by its pale color, complex malt profile with a dry finish, and effervescent carbonation. Belgian saison, also known as farmhouse ale, is a rustic beer style that originated in the French-speaking region of Belgium. Traditionally brewed in the winter months for consumption in the summer, saisons are known for their fruity and peppery yeast character and dry finish. Belgian Ale ABV: 4.4-10% Belgian Ale IBU: 20-50 Types of Belgian Ale: Belgian Pale Ale, Belgian Tripel, Belgian Saison Belgian Ale Brands: Samuel Adams Belgian Session, Weyerbacher Merry Monks, Victory Brewing Company Helios Belgian Ale Pairings: American cuisine, Asian cuisine, pasta dishes, barbecue, meat, Limburger cheese Belgian Ale Serving Temperature: 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit 10. Specialty Beer Specialty beers offer unique and diverse options for beer enthusiasts, catering to a range of tastes and preferences. From experimental brews to niche flavors, there is a specialty beer for every palate. These beers can range from barrel-aged beers to sour ales, from fruit-infused beers to spiced variations, offering customers a chance to try something new and exciting. Sour ales are a distinctive type of beer known for their tart and acidic flavors. These beers are fermented with specific strains of yeast and bacteria, resulting in a sour and tangy taste profile that sets them apart from traditional ales. Another specialty beer is gluten-free beer. They are brewed using alternative grains such as sorghum, millet, or rice to create a beer that is safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Spruce up your beer menu with crowd-pleasing flavors of beer that you can rotate throughout the seasons. Pumpkin beer is a seasonal favorite that typically makes its appearance during the fall months. Brewed with pumpkin puree and a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, pumpkin beer offers a festive and flavorful twist on traditional beer styles. Chocolate beer is a decadent and indulgent option for those with a sweet tooth. Brewed with chocolate malt or actual cocoa nibs, these beers offer a rich and velvety flavor profile that is reminiscent of a chocolate dessert, perfect for Valentine’s Day. Whether you're looking to explore new flavor profiles or indulge in a seasonal favorite, specialty beers offer a diverse and exciting range of options for beer enthusiasts to enjoy. Specialty Beer ABV: 3-10% or over Specialty Beer IBU: Varies Types of Specialty Beer: Sour Ales, Gluten Free Beer, Pumpkin Beer, Chocolate Beer Specialty Beer Brands: Dogfish Head Beer SeaQuench Ale Session Sour, Wicked Weed Brewing Gluten FREEk, Elysian Brewing Company Night Owl Pumpkin Ale, Yuengling Hershey’s Chocolate Porter Specialty Beer Pairings: Varies Specialty Beer Serving Temperature: Varies Cooking with Beer Beer is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to desserts and dressings. When used in cooking, beer can impart unique flavors, enhancing the overall taste profile and texture. Here are just some beers you can use in the kitchen: IPA: IPAs are characterized by their hoppy bitterness and floral aromas, making them a bold choice for marinating meats or adding to cheese sauces. The intense flavors of IPAs can infuse dishes with a complex and aromatic profile, making them a popular choice for battered beer fish or shrimp. Wheat Beer: Wheat beers have a light and citrusy profile that is perfect for cooking seafood or incorporating into salad dressings. The bright and refreshing notes of wheat beers can add a subtle tanginess to dishes, enhancing the overall taste experience. Stout: Stout beers are known for their bold roasted malt flavors which are excellent for braising meats or adding depth to chocolate desserts. The rich and complex flavors of stouts can elevate dishes like beef stew or chocolate cake, creating a decadent and satisfying meal. When cooking with beer, it is important to consider the alcohol content and flavor profile of the beer to ensure it complements the other ingredients in the dish. Experimenting with different types of beer can help you discover new and exciting ways to enhance your culinary creations with the diverse flavors of this beloved beverage. Back to Top From popular lagers and ales to unique stouts and porters, there is a wide range of beer types to help you cater to your customer preferences. By knowing the characteristics and flavors of each type of beer, you’ll be able to enhance your beverage menu and provide a memorable experience for your patrons. Once you have narrowed down your options, pair your menu with the right beer glasses for each beer type.
Concession Stand Food Ideas
If you develop the right menu, opening a concession stand is a low start-up cost way to join the foodservice industry. Whether you want to revamp your existing concession stand menu or generate one from scratch, we developed a comprehensive concession stand food ideas guide filled with healthy items, profitable snacks, pre-made concessions, and spruced-up concession stand fare to help you increase your sales. Shop All Concessions Supplies Click below to learn more about concession stand foods: Classic Concession Stand Food Ideas Most Profitable Concession Stand Foods Healthy Concession Stand Food Ideas Pre-made Concession Stand Food Ideas Store Bought Snack Ideas Preparing Concessions On-Site vs Off-Site Classic Concession Stand Food Ideas Your concession stand menu isn't complete without these classic foods. Investing in some key concession equipment allows you to expand your menu to include popular foods that will boost your sales. We rounded up the most profitable menu items and provided tips on upgrading these classic concessions. Hot Dogs If you're looking for a traditional concession food that's cost-effective, popular with customers, and requires very little labor to prepare, hot dogs are the perfect choice. Countertop hot dog rollers do most of the work for you, displaying footlongs, brats, and sausages while they cook and adding a tempting aroma to your concession stand that draws more attention. Condiment dispensers make it convenient for guests to choose their favorite toppings, whether it's ketchup, relish, or mustard. Try adding some of these popular hot dog combos to your concession stand menu: Ketchup or Mustard: In the battle for the most popular hot dog topping, you can stay neutral by offering your guests their choice. Chicago Style: To make this regional favorite, start with an all-beef frankfurter and top it with yellow mustard, green relish, a pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled peppers, and a sprinkle of celery salt. Coney Island Hot Dog: The quintessential Coney Island dog is made with a beef frank topped with meaty chili, hold the beans. Finish it off with chopped onions and yellow mustard. Cleveland Polish Boy: This Cleveland classic combines a kielbasa sausage with a generous topping of cole slaw, french fries, and barbecue sauce. Extra napkins are a must for this messy hot dog. French Fries It's hard to resist a bucket of fresh-cut french fries. This classic concession food can be prepped ahead of time or cut fresh to order with a french fry cutter. Just a few minutes in your countertop fryer and you'll be ready to serve up this crowd-pleasing snack. Try some of our ideas for mixing up your concessions french fry menu: Potato Alternatives: Instead of russets, try a different type of potato like a purple Peruvian or a Japanese sweet potato. You can even skip potatoes altogether and offer jicama or yucca fries. Cooking Oils: Experiment with a range of deep frying oils like coconut oil, olive oil, or duck fat. Loaded Fry Ideas: Load up your fries with tasty toppings like carne asada fries, bahn mi loaded fries, or poutine fries. Chicken Wings Fried foods like chicken wings are great for concession stands because the cooking process is very simple. Drop an order of wings in the fryer and toss them with sauce when they're done. Plate the wings with celery and blue cheese, and they are ready to be served. You can take this simple menu item and spice it up with our tips: Meatless Alternatives: More consumers are interested in plant-based meats than ever before. Try offering vegan wing alternatives made of crispy cauliflower, deep-fried seitan, or buffalo tempeh. Smoked Chicken Wings: If you want to put your chicken wings over the top, try smoking them the night before. Flash fry them to order and toss them in a classic Memphis dry rub seasoning before serving them with ranch dressing. Global Flavors: Take inspiration from popular street foods around the world and offer Korean fried chicken wings, shawarma chicken wings, and pollo frito chicken wings. Nachos Even with gourmet ingredients, loaded nachos are relatively inexpensive to produce and quick to assemble. Unexpected Proteins: ahi tuna, toasted chickpeas, pulled pork, huli-huli chicken, fried tofu. Unique Cheeses: beer cheese, paneer, cheese curds, queso, vegan cheese, Ayib. Tortilla Chip Alternatives: pita chips, beetroot chips, Fritos, wonton chips, sweet potato chips, Cheetos. Funnel Cake Trends toward health consciousness aside, most patrons are happy to splurge at events. Use these funnel cake ideas to create desserts customers will set their diets aside for. Funnel Cake "Sandwiches": funnel cake ice cream sandwich, fried chicken funnel cake sandwich, funnel cake Monte Cristo. Sub Funnel Cake Into Classic Desserts: Replace vanilla wafers in banana pudding, shortcake in strawberry shortcake, or graham crackers in smores with funnel cake. Flavored Funnel Cake Batter: red velvet, chocolate, peanut butter, birthday cake, lemon. Grilled Cheese Grilled cheese is classic comfort food that sells well at concession stands when they're made with unexpected and fanciful ingredients. Artisan Breads: sourdough, pumpernickel, focaccia, gluten-free, croissant, rugbraud, buttermilk biscuit. Specialty Spreads: spinach and artichoke, ajvar, baba ganoush, Amba. Add-Ins: mojo pork, mac and cheese, BBQ chicken, crab cakes, burnt ends. Pizza There will be other vendors offering this beloved food, so use our pizza ideas to outproduce your competitors. DIY Toppings: allow customers to select their desired sauces, cheeses, and toppings. Serve Less-Known Types of Pizza: Roman pizza, Detroit pizza, Ohio Valley pizza, Sicilian pizza, Greek pizza. Accommodate Alternative Diets: gluten-free pizza crust, vegan cheese, cauliflower pizza crust, meatless sausage toppings. Cotton Candy Nostalgic and easy to eat on the go, cotton candy is a classic concession stand food. Use our gourmet cotton candy ideas to attract the cultivated modern palette. Use Organic Ingredients: use organic sugar and flavorings in your cotton candy recipe. Creative Cotton Candy Containers/Sticks: ice cream cone, twisty stick, mason jar, rock candy stick, glow stick. Fancy Flavors: pina colada, prickly pear, cherry cordial, pumpkin spice, pitaya, white chocolate, acai. Corn Dogs Corn dogs are classic concession stand fare, but there is nothing basic about these corn dog ideas. Non-Sausage Corn Dogs: lobster corn dog, dill pickle corn dog, chicken tender corn dog. Creative Batters: beer battered corn dog, tempura battered corn dog, pancake battered corn dog. Unique Dipping Sauces: marinara sauce, curry ketchup, mustard BBQ sauce, maple syrup, tomato chutney. Beef Sandwiches There are countless takes on the beef sandwich, proving that however you smother or slice it, people love hot beef between warm bread. Dress your beef sandwiches up to the nines with these beef sandwich ideas. Convert Comfort Food Into A Sandwich: beef stroganoff sandwich, Salisbury steak sandwich, pot roast sandwich, beef bourgeon sandwich. Regional Beef Sandwiches: Philly Cheesesteak, Beef on Weck, Italian Beef, Baltimore’s Pit Beef sandwich. Unique BBQ Sauces: El Sancho BBQ sauce, Carolina mustard BBQ sauce, guava BBQ sauce, Carolina vinegar BBQ sauce. Concession Stand Menu Tip: Find something that you do very well and make that the focal point of your menu. Once you have a loyal customer base frequenting your stand, look to expand. Most Profitable Concession Stand Foods Profitable concession stand foods are inexpensive to purchase in bulk, easy to mass-produce, and don't require cutlery. We've rounded up the most profitable concession stand foods below: Popcorn Cotton Candy Nachos Pretzels Roasted Nuts Snow Cones Corn Dogs Ice Cream Back to Top Healthy Concession Stand Food Ideas When forming your concession stand menu, it's important to consider the growing trend towards health-conscious eating and the broader awareness of food allergens so you can accommodate customers' dietary restrictions. Here are some healthy snacks you can sell at your concession stand. 1. Fruit Snacks The best fruit snacks for concession stands are easy-to-peel and consume. Stock your concession stand with these fruit snacks. Fruit Snack Ideas Pre-Cut Melon Slices Bananas Apples Oranges Fruit Cups 2. Roasted Nuts Roasted nuts' healthy fat content will keep ballpark customers satiated when the game goes into overtime, making them an ideal, nutrient-packed snack to offer at your concession stand. Roasted Nut Recipes Praline Pecans Honey Roasted Nuts German Roasted Nuts Cinnamon Roasted Nuts Toasted Coconut Rum Nuts 3. Vegetable Snacks Pre-cut vegetables paired with single-serve dips are on-the-go snacks that won't leave your concession stand customers feeling heavy. Vegetable Snack Ideas Celery and Peanut Butter Sweet Bell Pepper and Hummus Cucumber Slices and Tzatziki Jumbo Dill Pickles Carrot Sticks and Ranch Back to Top Pre-made Concession Stand Food Ideas You can make simple crowd-pleasers off-site and transport them to your concession stand. Some of these food options require equipment if you want to serve them hot. Investing in a food warmer allows you to keep pre-cooked food at ready-to-serve temperatures without having to upgrade your concession stand space or increase on-site prep times. 1. Cookies On average, we eat seven billion cookies each year in the United States. Selling these beloved treats is a safe way to turn a profit, but which flavors do people prefer? We're sharing the most popular cookies so you can turn a major profit. Most Popular Cookies Chocolate Chip Cookies Peanut Butter Cookies Oatmeal Cookies Sugar Cookies Snickerdoodle 2. Popcorn These beloved popcorn flavors are sure to sell. Reimagine them to set your concession stand apart. Popcorn Flavors Caramel Popcorn Cheese Popcorn Chocolate Popcorn Coconut Oil Popcorn with Toasted Coconut Cajun Popcorn 3. Brownies Brownies are a beloved baked good you can easily make ahead in large batches and sell for a high profit at your concession stand. Here are some ideas for the best types of brownies to sell. Types of Brownies Keto Brownies Vegan Brownies Everything Brownies (cookie, Oreo, and brownie layered bar) Peanut Butter Brownies Cream Cheese Brownies 4. Sandwiches Pre-assemble America's most popular sandwiches and sell out daily. Most Popular Sandwiches BLT Roast Beef Sandwich Turkey Sandwich Grilled Chicken Sandwich Ham Sandwich 5. Soft Pretzels From giant soft pretzels to pretzel bites, soft pretzels are inexpensive to produce and return a considerable profit. Discover the best soft pretzel dip ideas below. Soft Pretzel Dip Ideas Spinach Artichoke Dip Honey Mustard Beer Cheese Whole Grain Mustard Creamy Horseradish Concession Stand Menu Tip: Try introducing a new pre-cooked item and see how it sells. When you learn what your customers like to buy—and how much—you can pre-cook with more confidence. Back to Top Store Bought Snack Ideas Store-bought foods allow you to serve the largest number of people at the lowest prices. We researched and compiled lists of the most popular snack flavors and brands for you. All you have to do is pull these items off the shelf and hand them to your customers. Most Popular Candy Offer the top five most popular candies in America at your concession stand: M&M's Skittles Reese's Peanut Butter Cups Starburst Twizzlers Most Popular Soda The polls are in and these are your patrons' favorite soda flavors: Coca-Cola Diet Coke Pepsi Mountain Dew Dr. Pepper Most Popular Candy Bars Discover the best-selling candy bars in America: Hershey's Bar Snicker's Kit Kats Twix 3 Musketeers Most Popular Chewy Candy The most popular chewy candy brands will fly off your concession stand's shelves: Sour Patch Kids Swedish Fish Gummy Bears Sour Gummy Worms Fruit Gummy Rings Most Popular Gum According to a 2020 research study, Americans ranked the most popular chewing gum flavors as follows: Spearmint Peppermint Wintergreen / Winterfresh Fruit Flavors Cinnamon Concession Stand Menu Tip: Stocking your concession stand with bottled beverages such as bottled water, iced tea, and lemonade at a lower price than on-site food vendors will encourage their patrons to make a separate trip to you. If you sell food, creating a drink deal and including a bottle of water with meals is a great way to set yourself above your competition. Back to Top Preparing Concessions On-Site vs Off-Site If you're trying to decide where to prepare your concessions, we've broken down the benefits and risks of preparing your concessions on- and off-site to help you decide. You should also consider your location and your customer's needs. For example, if your concession stand is at a sporting event, you would do well to focus on pre-made snacks since your customers will want to return to their seats quickly. Benefits and Risks of Preparing Concessions Off-Site Selling pre-made concessions reduces the amount of equipment you need at your stand. If you have limited space, preparing your food in a commissary kitchen ahead of time can be helpful. Less on-site prep time means you can sell more products than if you cooked them to order. Although prepared food saves time on site, it also involves some risk. You must estimate how much you can sell before setting up shop for the day/evening. This gamble could cause overproduction and waste if you're unfamiliar with your customers' needs. Benefits and Risks of Cooking to Order at Your Concession Stand The freshness and authenticity of made-to-order food allow you to charge more for your concessions, and you’re more likely to have return customers if you have something unique to offer. Also, cooking to order means you won’t have extra prepared goods at the end of each day, reducing food waste. There isn’t a lot of risk in selling food to order, but it can be harder to turn a profit. The added prep time means you’ll probably sell fewer items, and the added expense of purchasing equipment lowers your profit margin. Additionally, keeping up with customer orders may require you to hire a small staff or work with a partner. Rapid Cook Ovens If you want to increase your menu and decrease prep times, rapid cook ovens are essential. They can cook a pizza in less than four minutes, create a perfectly crisp panini in seconds, and roast a chicken breast in under seven minutes. Rapid cook ovens take up significantly less space than traditional ovens, making them ideal for concession stands. Depending on your menu, this could be the only piece of equipment you'll need. Back to Top The best concession stand menu is filled with low-cost, easy-to-assemble items that are well-suited to the event it serves. If you're interested in pursuing other vending opportunities, check out our guide comparing food trucks, food trailers, and food carts and discover which mobile food business is right for you.
Types of Hot Dogs
During the Great Depression, the hot dog emerged as a quintessential American food, symbolizing convenience, affordability, and a taste of tradition all in one bite. President Franklin D. Roosevelt served this humble yet beloved sausage sandwich at the White House to the visiting King of England, George VI. This iconic moment solidified the hot dog's place in American culinary history. Not only is it a storied food, but with the rise of inflation and economic uncertainty, the hot dog is making a resurgence. Like the different types of American BBQ, hot dogs are diverse. There are countless regional variations of the hot dog, with different parts of the country building a unique dish on the base of sausage and bun. Shop All Hot Dogs Click below to check out the different types of hot dogs: 1. New York Style Hot Dog 2. Corn Dog 3. Chicago Dog 4. Coney Island Hot Dog 5. Puka Dog 6. Maxwell Street Polish 7. Sonoran Dog 8. Dodger Dog 9. Italian Dog 10. Polish Boy 11. Hot Dog FAQ Hot Dog Styles America boasts a wide range of regional hot dog styles. From universally beloved corn dogs and famed Chicago dogs to niche regional styles like the Sonoran or Puka dogs, we provide a list of the top ten hot dogs in America. 1. New York Style Hot Dog New York City is famous for its diverse culinary scene, and one iconic street food synonymous with the city is the New York-style hot dog. The key components of a New York-style hot dog are a boiled beef frankfurter served on a soft bun and topped with a generous helping of spicy brown mustard, sauerkraut, and onion sauce. Onion sauce is made by sauteing onions in oil, tomato paste (or ketchup), and spices, creating a savory and slightly sweet contrast to the zesty brown mustard. Some vendors also offer additional toppings such as relish, ketchup, or even spicy chili to cater to different preferences. New York-style hot dogs are often served in a paper tray or wrapped in foil for easy handling, accommodating the bustling lifestyle of The City That Never Sleeps. It’s believed that the first hot dogs were born out of New York. In the 1860s, German immigrants started selling sausages on milk rolls with sauerkraut from carts in New York City’s Bowery. These sausage sandwiches were known as Red-Hot Dachshund Sausages. By 1867, a German immigrant and baker named Charles Feltman began selling hot dogs in Coney Island, New York. He served his sausages on a long, sliced bun so beachgoers could enjoy their lunch on the sand. Feltman sold 3,600 hot dogs his first year of operation, and America’s love of hot dogs was born. In recent years, The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council estimated that New Yorkers spend over $120 million a year on franks, proving the New York-style hot dog is still a beloved staple in the city's culinary landscape. Dog: Boiled all-beef frank Bun: Steamed white bun Toppings: Spicy brown mustard, sauerkraut, onion sauce 2. Corn Dog Not just a regional food, corn dogs are a popular choice across America. The key components of a corn dog are a hot dog that is skewered on a stick, coated in a thick layer of cornmeal batter, and deep-fried until golden brown. The hot dog provides a meaty center, while the cornmeal batter adds a crunchy exterior. The batter typically consists of cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and seasonings, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile. To make a corn dog, the hot dog is first skewered onto a stick for easy handling. It’s then dipped into the cornmeal batter, carefully placed into a high-heat oil, and deep fried. The oil cooks the hot dog inside while creating a crispy golden crust on the outside. Once cooked to perfection, the corn dog is ready to be enjoyed on its own or with condiments like mustard or ketchup. Drizzle your hand-dipped corn dogs with homemade hot honey to elevate your menu and play into the swicy trend. Scores of food entrepreneurs lay claim to the corn dog’s invention. Many believe it was German immigrants to Texas who first created the corn dog, combining their time-honored sausage-making traditions with the beloved cornbread found in the American South. In 1942, brothers and Vaudeville performers, Neil and Carl Fletcher, started selling “corny dogs” at the Texas state fair, popularizing this now beloved food. However, some contest that the title of corn dog inventor and propagator belongs to a diner in Oregon called Pronto Pup since they started selling their cornmeal-batted hot dogs as early as 1941. Co-founder of the Cozy Dog Drive-In, Ed Waldmire, claims to have perfected the recipe with his future business partner Don Strand after trying a hot dog baked into cornbread at an Oklahoma diner in 1941. Regardless of who popularized it, corn dogs are a beloved food across the United States enjoyed at carnivals, fairs, and concession stands. Dog: Beef and pork blend hot dog Other Ingredients: Cornmeal batter, deep frying oil, stick Condiments: Mustard, ketchup, hot honey 3. Chicago Dog The Chicago dog, also known as the Chicago-style hot dog, is a beloved classic in the world of franks. This iconic “dragged through the garden” hot dog is synonymous with the vibrant food culture of Chicago, Illinois. A traditional Chicago dog starts with an all-beef hot dog served in a poppy seed bun. Its smorgasbord of toppings sets it apart. It’s loaded with bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, yellow mustard, chopped white onions, and a dash of celery salt. These toppings come together to create a flavor profile that is at once tangy, savory, and sweet. The origins of the Chicago dog can be traced back to the 1930s Great Depression era. Fluky’s started marketing their “Depression Sandwich” (which we now know as the Chicago dog) in 1929 for a nickel each. All the toppings provided bulk and nutrients to the simple and affordable meal. Aside from the toppings, Chicago dogs are set apart by their all-beef Vienna Beef dogs popularized by Jewish immigrants to Chicago. The Chicago’s Union Stockyards had notoriously low health and hygiene standards, and the Jewish community's all-beef dogs offered an alternative to the pork sausages made at the Stockyards. Over the years, the Chicago dog has become a staple of the city's culinary scene and is a must-try for hot dog enthusiasts visiting the Windy City. Dog: Boiled or steamed all-beef frankfurter (traditionally Vienna Beef) Bun: Poppy seed bun Toppings: Bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, yellow mustard, chopped white onions, celery salt 4. Coney Island Hot Dog Coney Island hot dogs consist of a grilled beef frankfurter in a natural casing placed in a soft, steamed bun. It's then topped with a flavorful all-meat chili sauce (“Coney sauce”), yellow mustard, and chopped, raw onions. Some variations may also include additional toppings, such as pickles, jalapenos, or cheddar cheese. Hot dog enthusiasts used the term “Coneys” as shorthand for the beloved food, but it can also signify the type of restaurants where Coney Island dogs are served. In Detroit, “Coney Islands” are Greek-American diners that serve Coney dogs alongside other staples such as gyros, Greek salads, burgers, and breakfast foods. Despite its name, the Coney Island hot dog didn’t originate in Coney Island, New York. The story of the Coney Island hot dogs began in the early 20th century when Greek immigrants came through New York’s Ellis Island and encountered hot dogs on Coney Island. After making their way further west to Detroit, Michigan, these immigrants introduced their twist to the classic hot dog by adding a savory meat chili sauce, and the Coney dog was born. Over the years, the Coney Island hot dog has spread nationwide. Today, you can find variations of the Coney Island dog at food carts, trucks, and trailers throughout the United States, each offering a unique take on this flavorful and satisfying street food favorite. Dog: Grilled all-beef frankfurter in natural casing Bun: Steamed hot dog bun Toppings: All meat chili sauce, yellow mustard, chopped raw onions 5. Puka Dog Originating in Hawaii, Puka dogs, also known as Hula Dogs, are a unique and tropical twist on the classic hot dog. This specialty hot dog features a Hawaiian sweet bread bun with a hole in its center. Chefs create the hole by inserting a heating rod into the bun. This also toasts the inside of the bun. They then stuff the hole with a high-quality grilled Polish sausage, adding a rich and meaty flavor to the dish. Traditional condiments include mango or passion fruit mustard, spicy garlic citrus sauce, and tropical fruit relish. The Hula dog offers a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Puka dogs emerged out of a small hot dog hut at the base of the Waimea Canyon in Kauai. The name "puka" comes from the Hawaiian word for "hole", referring to the hole in the bun where the sausage is placed. Inspired by their tropical surroundings, the owners began creating exotic relishes and sauces from the native fruits and plants of Kauai. Popular relish flavors are mango, pineapple, and coconut. The combination of savory sausage and spicy sauce with the sweet relish and bun makes puka dogs an ambrosial food. Create your own version of the trademarked puka dog and invite guests to an island experience at your mainland establishment. Dog: Grilled Polish sausage Bun: Hawaiian sweet bread bun Toppings: Tropical fruit relish, mango mustard, spicy citrus garlic sauce 6. Maxwell Street Polish The “Chicago Dog” isn’t the Windy City’s only famous frank; The Maxwell Street Polish is another beloved hot dog variation from Chicago. This iconic dog is named after Maxwell Street, a historic market street in Chicago known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings. It typically consists of a grilled Polish sausage served on a bun with yellow mustard, fried onions, and sport peppers. This type of Polish sausage is a flavorful and slightly spicy smoked variety that is a staple in Polish cuisine. The Maxwell Street Polish dog was created by Jim’s Original in 1939. Back then, Jim’s original was a stand in Chicago’s historical Maxwell Street Market, run by Yugoslavian-born founder Jimmy Stefanovic. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Chicago or looking to add a unique and flavorful hot dog option to enhance your happy hour, the Maxwell Street Polish is a classic choice that never fails to impress with its bold and satisfying taste. Dog: Grilled, smoked pork and beef Polish sausage Bun: Plain hot dog bun Toppings: Fried onions, sport peppers, yellow mustard 7. Sonoran Dog Originating from the Sonora region of Mexico in the early 1970s, the Sonoran dog is a bacon-wrapped, beef hot dog nestled in a soft, slightly sweet bolillo-style bun. The bun is topped with a variety of indulgent condiments, including pinto beans, grilled onions, chopped tomatoes, mustard, mayonnaise, and jalapenos. This combination of ingredients creates a mouthwatering blend of textures and flavors. It has gained a cult following in the United States, particularly in the Southwestern states of Arizona and Texas. Tucson, Arizona, even created a Sonoran hot dog trail to help visitors and locals sample Sonoran dogs from a diverse array of businesses. One of the defining features of a Sonoran dog is its bolillo-style bun. Originating from Mexico, these buns are characterized by a soft interior encased in a crusty exterior. They’re made from a simple dough of flour, water, yeast, and salt. A Mexican variation of the baguette, bolillos are typically shorter and thicker than traditional hot dog buns and are shaped into an elongated oval before they’re baked. Of course, it’s the generous toppings that elevate the Sonoran dog from a snack to a hearty meal. While the traditional Sonoran dog follows a specific recipe, there are regional variations that add a unique twist to this Mexican-inspired dish. Some versions may include queso, cotija, or guacamole, and offer different types of salsas as garnishment. Dog: Grilled, all-beef hot dog wrapped in bacon Bun: Bolillo Toppings: Pinto beans, grilled onions, chopped tomatoes, mustard, mayonnaise, jalapeno 8. Dodger Dog Dodger Dogs are grilled or steamed pork wieners in soft, steamed hot dog buns topped with classic condiments such as mustard, ketchup, onions, and relish. Named after the Los Angeles Dodgers, they are made remarkable by their 10-inch length (the average hot dog is 6 inches). The grilled variety is considered the traditional version and was known as “Farmer John Dodger Dogs” until 2021. There are a few variations of Dodger Dogs. The Super Dodger Dog is made with 100% beef sausage, and the Doyer Dog replaces the traditional toppings with chili, salsa, and jalapenos. Sold at their namesake stadium, these iconic hot dogs are a staple at baseball games and have a rich history that dates back several decades. They received their name in 1958 when the Dodgers moved from Brooklyn to Los Angeles, and the Dodger Dog has been a fan favorite at Dodger Stadium ever since. Dodger Dogs consistently lead hot dog sales at all Major League Baseball ballparks. The hot dogs are supplied by California-based Papa Cantella’s. Outside of the Dodger Stadium, you can purchase Dodger Dogs at a small chain of restaurants throughout Southern California. They make an excellent addition to any sports bar marketing strategy. Dog: Grilled or steamed 10-inch pork hot dog Bun: Steamed hot dog bun Toppings: Mustard, ketchup, onions, relish 9. Italian Dog Originating in Newark, New Jersey, the Italian hot dog is a beloved classic throughout the state. It starts with one or two spicy (aka single or double), all-beef hot dogs and is loaded with flattop fried potatoes, peppers, and onions. To complement its savory flavors, the Italian hot dog is generously drizzled in spicy brown mustard, adding a tangy kick. It’s traditionally served on pizza bread; leftover pizza dough shaped into circular pockets like pita. Pizza bread has an airy but chewy bite, serving as a sturdy yet pillowy base for these hearty frankfurters. Jimmy “Bluff” Racioppi and his wife, Mary Racioppi, introduced the Italian dog to the culinary scene. Jimmy was nicknamed “Jimmy the Buff” for his habit of bluffing when he played poker. When Mary created the now beloved Italian hot dogs in 1932, it was such a hit with Jimmy and his poker buddies that the couple decided to open their restaurant, “Jimmy Buffs” in Newark, New Jersey, to share their delicious sausage sandwiches. Italian hot dogs are now popular throughout New Jersey. As more and more establishments started preparing and serving Italian hot dogs, some chose to use sandwich loaves instead of pizza bread. However, a truly authentic Italian hot dog distinguishes itself by its pizza bread bun. Dog: Spicy, all-beef hot dogs (traditionally from Best Provisions in Newark, NJ) Bun: Pizza bread Toppings: Flattop grilled potatoes, peppers, and onions, deli mustard 10. Polish Boy Originating from Cleveland, Ohio, a Polish Boy hot dog is a grilled or deep-fried smoked kielbasa in a barbeque sauce-coated hoagie roll piled with mounds of coleslaw and French fries. The correct order for assembling a Polish boy is to grill or pan-fry the kielbasa, toast the bun, and then place the sausage inside. To layer the toppings, squeeze a stream of BBQ sauce onto the kielbasa, load in some fries, and then place a pile of slaw on top. This combination of savory and tangy flavors creates a delicious and satisfying meal that has become a favorite among food enthusiasts and makes the perfect Fourth of July menu item. The origins of the Polish Boy hot dog can be traced back to the 1940s when it was first introduced by local Cleveland food vendors looking to create a unique and affordable street food option. A true Cleveland’s Own menu item, the kielbasa gives a nod to Eastern Europe’s influence on Northeast Ohio. Over the years, variations of the Polish Boy have popped up in food trucks, diners, and BBQ joints nationwide. Some variations favor vinegar-based slaw to creamy slaw, some establishments sub perogies for fries, and BBQ restaurants add pulled pork or chopped brisket to the already hefty sandwich. Dog: Grilled or deep-fried smoked kielbasa Bun: Hoagie bun Toppings: Coleslaw, French fries, BBQ sauce Back to Top Hot Dog FAQ Now that you know the top ten types of regional hot dogs, you might have some questions about the hot dog ingredients behind each creation. We answer some of the most frequently asked hot dog questions below, so you can create a delicious dog-eating experience at your establishment. What Are Hot Dogs Made Of? At its core, a hot dog is a type of sausage, traditionally a Vienna sausage or a frankfurter, that is typically made from a mixture of finely ground meat, food starch, flavorings, corn syrup, and water. The most common meats used in hot dogs include beef, pork, and chicken, but there are also variations made with turkey, veal, or a combination of different meats. One key characteristic of hot dogs is their casing, which is the thin, edible membrane that encases the meat mixture. Casings can be natural (made from animal intestines), or synthetic (made from materials like collagen or cellulose). The casing is what gives hot dogs their signature snap when bitten into. Hot dogs can be found in various forms, including fresh, smoked, or cured. Fresh hot dogs are uncooked and must be cooked before consumption, while smoked and cured hot dogs are pre-cooked and can be eaten cold or heated up. Additionally, hot dogs come in different shapes and sizes, from the classic long and skinny frankfurter to the shorter and thicker cocktail franks. They range in flavor from mild and savory to bold and spicy, depending on the seasonings and spices used in the meat mixture. Some hot dogs may also contain additional ingredients like cheese, jalapenos, or bacon bits to add extra flavor and texture. What Is the Difference between Hot Dogs and Sausages? Hot dogs are a type of sausage. The term sausage categorizes ground meat mixed with spices and salt, which is then stuffed into a casing. Fat content and texture distinguish hot dogs from other sausages. While hot dogs are finely ground and typically have a lower fat content, most sausages have a higher fat content and are not as finely ground. Because they typically contain artificial flavorings and corn syrup, hot dogs are considered less healthy than other sausage varieties made with more natural ingredients. Back to Top Hot dogs are a beloved classic in American cuisine, and their popularity is undeniable. It’s estimated that over 7 billion wieners are consumed nationwide during Hot Dog Season (the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day). Consider adding a few of the regional hog dog styles listed above to your summer menu to attract new customers. With so many different types of hot dogs available, this versatile menu item can be reimaged time and again to broaden your customer base.