Anthony Bourdain was never shy about sharing his food opinions, and one of his most surprising declarations came when he crowned Chicago’s hot dogs superior to New York City’s. The late chef, author, and travel documentarian made the statement during an episode of No Reservations, admitting that Chicago had “hands down, a better hot dog than New York City.”
A Love for “Meat in Tube Form”
Bourdain often described hot dogs as “meat in tube form,” celebrating their versatility and cultural significance. He sampled countless versions worldwide, from Iceland’s late-night hot dogs to Vancouver’s Japanese-inspired Japadogs. Yet, it was Chicago’s iconic “dragged through the garden” style that won his heart.
Hot Doug’s: The Game-Changer
The hot dog that sealed the deal for Bourdain was from Chicago’s legendary Hot Doug’s, a restaurant famous for its inventive toppings and duck fat fries. Before closing in 2014, fans lined up for hours to savor creations featuring foie gras, escargot, and Guinness mustard. Even without Hot Doug’s, Bourdain believed Chicago’s classic hot dog — with its carefully balanced toppings — set the standard.
Why Chicago Dogs Stand Out
Chicago-style hot dogs are known for their long list of toppings: yellow mustard, neon-green relish, onions, tomato wedges, a dill pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. Each ingredient plays a role in balancing flavors, creating a briny, tangy, and savory bite that complements the beef frank. Unlike New York’s “dirty water dogs,” Chicago hot dogs emphasize precision and balance. Local vendors often experiment with variations, but the foundation remains the same — no ketchup allowed. For Bourdain, this attention to detail and respect for tradition elevated Chicago’s hot dog above all others.
A Culinary Legacy
Bourdain’s endorsement of Chicago’s hot dogs remains one of his most memorable food takes. While he loved New York’s Papaya King and its street food culture, his declaration highlighted Chicago’s mastery of the hot dog craft. Today, his words continue to fuel the debate between two of America’s greatest food cities.
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