Hot Diggity Dog!
Who knew that July was National Hot Dog Month? It was in 1957 that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce gave July this official designation. So let’s jump on the hot dog bandwagon and celebrate July the way it was meant to be celebrated! This summertime favorite is easy to find in Newport News. Here are some of the most popular local places in the city to find great franks:
Gus’s Hot Dog King
10725 Jefferson Ave.
A Newport News institution since 1972, Gus’s Hot Dog King is known for its mouth-watering hot dogs, typically served “all the way” with the restaurant’s homemade signature chili, mustard and onions. As one reviewer on Yelp wrote: “Just moved to the Peninsula and tried this place yesterday. It was so good that I swear I’m going back today!” It’s important to note that the business will be celebrating National Hot Dog Month by closing for two weeks (July 3-17) to give their staff a much-deserved break, so grab your dog July 1-2 or July 18-31 when everyone returns (closed Sundays).
Sam’s Hot Dog Stand
880 J. Clyde Morris Blvd.
Sam’s Hot Dog Stand, which opened in 2020, serves all-beef hot dogs with an array of toppings. One option to consider is their Chili Dog Tater Bake, served with their house chili, diced onions, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, tater tots, and cheddar cheese. While there, don’t forget to ask for your Big Dog Club punch-card, which rewards you with a free hot dog for every six purchased. A recent review on Yelp had this to say about the establishment: “The all-beef dogs were great, the homemade chili was exceptional, and the service was top-notch. Highly recommend!”
Papou George’s Hot Dogs
330 Oyster Point Road
Papou George’s Hot Dogs serves regular, foot-long, and corndogs. In addition to ketchup and mustard, their toppings include sauerkraut, pepperoncini, coleslaw, bacon, shredded cheese, relish, onions, and tomatoes. On your next visit, give their “Junk Yard Dog” a try; it’s a corn dog with mustard, onion, chili and cheese! One reviewer on Yelp described Papou George’s as a “hidden gem tucked away in a shopping center,” having “some of the best hot dogs!”
Monty’s Penguin
9607 Warwick Blvd.
Another Newport News institution is Monty’s Penguin, which has been around since the 1940s. Almost every online review mentions its vintage look, friendly service, simple menu, reasonable prices, and delicious food. A reviewer on Yelp called Monty’s Penguin “a real gem in Newport News,” adding: “My favorite footlongs with chili anywhere!”
Whether you prefer the chili dog, the corndog or just a plain ol’ hot dog with nothing on it, take the time this month to celebrate one of America’s true cultural icons and have yourself a hot dog!