I used to never like telling people about Hot Doug's. It's tiny and usually full. My selfish appetite didn't want it to get any more crowded. I would reserve the information for a select few. But, the secret is obviously out (judging by the crowds), and Doug deserves the praise.

Hot Doug's is Chicago's finest tribute to the sausage. The standard sausages (hot dog, polish, brat, etc.) rival the best in the city, but Hot Doug's shines with the specials. Exotic and game meats (rattlesnake, buffalo, duck, etc.) are always found on the menu, along with gourmet creations like "Garlic Pork Sausage with Spicy Tropical Mayonnaise and Toasted Walnuts". These specials change often (if not daily) and offer a truly unique Chicago hot dog experience.

I recommend going with a friend or two and getting some sausages to share so you can taste a few.

All the wheres and whens can be found at www.hotdougs.com.

There's so much more to tell about this tiny little place but I'm sure this is not the last time I will be writing about Hot Doug's.

Doug's has the finest hot dogs in town. Make sure you do not overlook the cheese fries either. Doug hand cuts them every day and they are smothered in a delicious, yellow cheese sauce.

Best of luck with the Chicago food blog!

Craig Lycke

Posted by: craig lycke at March 28, 2004 11:47 AM

Did you see that the Trib gave Hot Doug's 4 forks today in its Cheap Eats section?

I like Hot Dougs, but I think some of the "special" sausages are expensive for what you get. I prefer their brat.

Posted by: Vital Information at April 7, 2004 3:56 PM

not to mention they have the best veggie dog ever. hands down.

Posted by: Missuh at April 26, 2004 2:27 PM

I went to Hot Doug's right before Labor Day weekend. I joined some wino friends of mine and we each brought a bottle of wine to sample and pair with HD's gourmet hotdogs. Wow! What an experience. I enjoyed the duck sausage the most and it was topped with 4 "chunks" of foie gras (mind you this was a week after foie gras was banned in the city). Doug said that he was rebelling the ban and I am glad he is! I also enjoyed his take on the Reuben sandwich, boy that was yummy! BTW, Hot Doug and The Wine Discount Center on Elston is having a wine tasting on Nov. 14 at 7:30 and they are featuring Hot Doug's gourmet sausages for $40.00! That is a treat! Anyone else going? We are!

Posted by: Jose-Mari at October 23, 2006 3:33 PM