A New Jersey rite of passage, here are Big Joe’s top 5 best spots for the best hot dogs in New Jersey

So, I’m sitting at home getting ready to watch the baseball game, and my friend says he’s bringing over hot dogs from WindMill.

I was like a dog waiting for a treat. I couldn’t wait. It was outstanding — the crunch, the soft bun, perfect. I could have eaten three, but I’m on a diet, so I had one and savored it.

To top it off, I poured my favorite beer into a frozen glass, and you could see my smile from the Shore to Mahwah.

Hot dogs are a rite of passage in the spring, summer, and early fall. Every now and then, a great hot dog is a special treat.

With that said, here are my go-to hot dog spots in New Jersey. No particular order.

Rut’s Hut Clifton, New Jersey

This is the most famous hot dog destination spot in New Jersey. Rut’s Hut has been on many food TV shows, won countless awards, and have been hot dog critics picked as the best in New Jersey, and some say the East Coast. The original stand opened in 1928.

The deep-fried ripper hot dog is something to enjoy. They have simple sides, and they are particularly good. Enjoy this hot dog royalty.

The WindMill Various New Jersey locations

The Windmill has been serving great hot dogs and their world-famous cheese fries since 1964. I enjoy their hot dogs; they are well-cooked, and the offering of toppings is extensive and enjoyable.

You can find WindMill hot dogs up and down the Jersey Shore. As I stated above, you must check out this hot dog palace.

Destination Dogs New Brunswick, New Jersey

Ok, I know this is the best hot dog article, but Destination Dogs also serves outstanding sausages. Their list of hot dogs and the way you can enjoy them is huge. The toppings are many, the selection of how you want the dog is extensive.

I strongly suggest that you study the menu before you go and write down what you want to enjoy. It is an amazing menu. Go hungry and enjoy a couple of dogs with your friends. You will not regret it.

Oh, and you can sit and enjoy one of their twenty-eight beers or cocktails while munching on that amazing dog.

Boulevard Dogs and More, Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey

The bill themselves as “The Dogfather.” They have some great choices and interesting combinations like their mac and cheese with bacon hot dog. One trip to my cardiologist and I was fine.

It was incredibly good. I made a specific longer trip to try out their dogs, and I am glad I did.

Jimmy Buff’s West Orange and Kenilworth, NJ

This is a 92-year-old institution. They serve a masterpiece with their hot dog Italian style. They created it and served their special Italian dog with peppers, onions, and potatoes on a soft bun. It is exceptionally good.

Their menu is simple and almost everyone who walks through their doors grabs an Italian-style hot dog.

Hot Dog Johnny’s Belvidere, New Jersey

The original Hot Dog Johnny’s was a small hut that would easily fit in your backyard. I love the simplicity of this place. Established in 1944 and there are no thrills, zero.

You order a dog with the toppings that you want, grab a delicious shake, or drink and enjoy. Sit at their picnic tables and enjoy the experience, right off Route 46. A wonderful place for a weekend afternoon.

Why NJ hot dog spots stand the test of time

Many of these places have been around for decades — and that says everything.

They’ve survived because they serve great hot dogs, plain and simple.

Next time you’ve got a craving, check out one of these New Jersey classics.

You won’t be disappointed. 🌭

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 weekend host Big Joe Henry. Any opinions expressed are Big Joe’s own.

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