Your Guide to Finding the Best Hot Dogs in Birmingham

As the summer sun heats up, so does our craving for the perfect hot dog. That quintessential American treat conjures up memories of backyard barbecues, lake picnics and poolside snacks. We’ve rounded up eight of our favorite hot dog joints in ‘The Magic City’, featuring long-standing Birmingham staples and a few you might not expect.

1. Paramount | Downtown Birmingham

Beginning the list on a strong note, Paramount takes the trophy for being one of the best places in the city for high-quality burgers, hot dogs and American classics. The highlight is ‘The Smokewagon’, a Niman Ranch hot dog, loaded with smoked ham, cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce, slaw and spicy jalapeños.

Location: 200 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Hours: Daily 11AM-9PM

2. Pizza Grace | Mercantile on Morris

Perhaps surprisingly, Pizza Grace makes this list with its unique pizza dog. Freshly baked in their signature pizza dough, this hot dog is a treat, and can be customized with a wide variety of toppings. Only drawback – it’s only available for lunch.

Location: 2212 Morris Ave Suite 105, Birmingham, AL 35203

Hours: Lunch 11:30AM-2PM | Dinner 5-9PM

3. The Collins Bar | 2nd Ave N

A history lesson for newbies: The famous Lyric dogs, first introduced by Greek immigrant John Collins in 1957, are now served in multiple variations at The Collins Bar. Now offering six types of the iconic Lyric hot dog, this fine establishment is also a great spot for experimental cocktails.

Location: 2125 2nd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Hours: Monday-Saturday 4PM-12AM

4. Gus’s Hot Dogs | 4th Ave N

Gus’s Hot Dogs is a classic institution in Birmingham, serving delicious hot dogs since 1947. Named by ‘The Daily Meal’ as one of the 35 best hot dogs in the U.S, Gus’s is the perfect lunch spot to grab a chili dog, a bag of Golden Flake potato chips and a Pepsi.

Location: 1915 4th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

Hours: Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM | Saturday 10AM-4PM

5. Back Forty Beer Company | Avondale

Popular for their craft beers and massive taproom, Back Forty Beer Company also serves mouth-watering gourmet pub grub. The Back Forty hot dog, an all-beef frank loaded with cheese, beer mustard, onions and relish is a team favorite. Fans of spice can opt for the Conecuh dog, topped with spicy brown mustard and sauerkraut.

Location: 3201 1st Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35222

Hours: Monday + Wednesday 11AM-9PM | Thursday 11AM-10PM | Friday-Saturday 11AM-11PM | Sunday 11AM-8PM

6. The Standard | The Pizitz + Vestavia Hills

The Standard is renowned for its classic, high-quality burgers and sandwiches. Diners can opt for a plain hot dog or load it up with a variety of over 10 toppings like pimiento cheese, beef sauce, and pickled jalapeños.

Location: The Pizitz Food Hall: 1821 2nd Ave N #188, Birmingham, AL 35203
Vestavia Hills City Center: 700 Montgomery Hwy Suite 164, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

Hours: Monday-Saturday 11AM-8PM

7. Tony’s Hot Dogs | Pelham

Family-owned Tony’s Hot Dogs in Pelham has been named one of the top 50 best hot dogs in America by Big 7 Travel, and the best hot dog in the state by ‘Eat This, Not That’.

Location: 1922 Montgomery Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35244

Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30AM-3PM | Saturday 6:30AM-3PM

8. Stephen’s Hotdog Wagon | Locations Vary

Stephen’s Hotdog Wagon, a locally-owned hot dog food truck, is known for its creative menu featuring unique topping options like potato salad, cajun crab dip, and Frito’s. Make sure to check their socials for location updates.

Location: Check socials for weekly location schedule

Hours: Hours vary

Unleash your craving for hot dogs, and explore these prime hot dog joints. Make sure to share your experiences and tag us on our social media handles. Happy eating!