NEW JERSEY - New Jersey is the perfect place to find a great hot dog and is well known for delicious dogs; some are so good you will never find anything else like it.
New Jersey's Hot Dog Obsession: A Guide to Rippers, Italian Dogs, and the Best Spots
In many states, a hot dog is just a simple snack. In New Jersey, it's a culinary art form.
With a history stretching back over a century, the Garden State is a "hot dog paradise," built on iconic, family-owned joints and unique, regional-specific styles. From deep-fried "Rippers" to the potato-loaded "Italian Hot Dog," New Jersey has a hot dog culture all its own.
Before you grab a bite, here are the essential NJ hot dog styles you need to know.
Know Your NJ Dog: The Local Styles
- The Ripper: This North Jersey legend is a pork-and-beef hot dog that is deep-fried in oil. The hot oil cooks it so fast that the casing rips open, giving it its name and a crispy, crunchy texture.
- The Italian Hot Dog: A true NJ invention, famously served at places like Jimmy Buff's. This isn't just a hot dog; it's a full meal. One or two hot dogs are tucked into a half-moon of "pizza bread" and loaded with fried peppers, onions, and crispy potatoes.
- The Texas Wiener: Don't let the name fool you; this style is pure Jersey. It's a hot dog (often fried or grilled) "all the way"—topped with a spicy, all-meat chili sauce, diced raw onions, and a line of yellow mustard.
Ready to try one? Here is a list of New Jersey's most iconic and beloved hot dog joints, from north to south.
The Best Hot Dog Spots in New Jersey
North Jersey Hot Dogs
- Hiram's (Fort Lee): A legendary roadside joint serving up iconic, deep-fried Rippers since 1932. It’s a no-frills, counter-serve spot with outdoor tables and an unbeatable old-school vibe.
- Location: 1345 Palisade Ave, Fort Lee, NJ 07024
- Jimmy Buff's Italian Hot Dogs (West Orange): The originator of the Italian Hot Dog. This counter-serve outpost specializes in this messy, delicious, and essential NJ meal, serving it with all the traditional trimmings.
- Location: 60 Washington St, West Orange, NJ 07052
- Hot Dog Johnny's (Belvidere): A true roadside destination. This longtime hot dog stand is famous for its simple, tasty dogs, frosted mugs of birch beer, and buttermilk. The classic neon sign and swing set make it a perfect family stop.
- Location: 333 US-46, Belvidere, NJ 07823
- Destination Dogs (New Brunswick): For the adventurous eater. This easygoing bar and restaurant serves up gourmet hot dogs in dozens of global and regional styles, from a "Chicago" dog to wild game sausages.
- Location: 101 Paterson St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Central Jersey Hot Dogs
- Captain Paul's Firehouse Dogs (Lawrence Township): A local favorite with a fun, military and emergency-personnel-themed decor. This no-frills spot features great hot dogs and outdoor dining.
- Location: 2230 Princeton Pike, Lawrence Township, NJ 08648
- Dicky's Dogs (Toms River): Step inside this hot dog joint and you'll feel like you're back in the 1950s. It’s bright, cheery, and the hot dogs are done perfectly.
- Location: 332 Atlantic City Blvd, Toms River, NJ
- Russ Ayres Hot Dogs (Bordentown): A simple, classic setup with famously tasty hot dogs. You can get anything here, from a chili cheese dog to an Italian dog with all the fixings.
- Location: 676 US-206, Bordentown, NJ
South Jersey & Jersey Shore Hot Dogs
- Hot Dog Tommy's (Cape May): An upbeat, must-visit food shop in the heart of Cape May. Serves up hot dogs with classic and one-of-a-kind toppings, including great vegan versions. Get here early—the line is usually long for a reason.
- Location: 10 Jackson St, Cape May, NJ 08204
- The Windmill (Long Branch): A true Jersey Shore icon, famous for its giant windmill building. This traditional counter-serve spot is a go-to for its classic hot dogs, burgers, and legendary cheese fries.
- Location: 444 Ocean Blvd N, Long Branch, NJ 07740
- Grab A Wiener (Wildwood): A low-key boardwalk store that's a must-stop in Wildwood. Features hot dogs with a huge variety of "diversified" toppings, along with loaded fries.
- Location: 4000 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260
- Nifty Fifty's (Turnersville): A kitschy, 1950s-style diner with a nostalgic air. Known for its dozens of milkshake flavors and fresh-ground burgers, its hot dogs are a classic American treat.
- Location: 4670 NJ-42, Turnersville, NJ 08012
- Maui's Dog House (Wildwood): A vibrant, fun stand with covered seating and a huge personality. Serves up great hot dogs with what seems like countless toppings.
- Location: 806 New Jersey Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260
Share This Article on Social Media
Written By: Philly Bite Magazines Staff
New Jersey Best Of Series consists of a round-up of the best places to find great food, entertainment, and more in NJ.
