Shopping & Food

Top 5 Places in Ottawa for National Hot Dog Day

National Hot Dog Day was first celebrated in 1971 by a student, who adored the bun-squished meat for its affordability. 49 years later, and Hot Dog Day is still celebrated by many across the world, and particularly in America where the image of the dog has a close connection to baseball and the American image. Here in Ottawa, we have our very own hot dog vendors to help you celebrate National Hot Dog Day. 

1. Tavern on the Hill 

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Tavern on the Hill has adapted well to COVID-19 restrictions by adding a large outdoor dining area that comes alive at night on the Hill. The restaurant is situated across from the National Art Gallery, and overlooks Parliament as well as the canal locks below. Tavern on the Hill specializes in two things: beer and gourmet hot dogs, although they offer other menu items as well, and all their food is $11 or under. You can choose between two venues: Tavern on the Hill or Tavern on the Falls. The latter is located near Major Hill’s Park but overlooks the Rideau Falls off of Sussex Drive. 

2. The King Eddy’s Foot-Long Dog

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The dog days of summer are just better with chili & cheese! 🌭🐶🏖 #KElovesall

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The King Eddy is a classic Byward destination for late-night eats and has a similar menu to Zak’s diner. The restaurant only offers a chilli dog, and one other hot dog on their menu, and it’s a foot long! The dog comes with your choice of toppings and a fries or salad for about $15. 

3. Lois’ N’ Frima’s 

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Lois’ N’ Frima’s Homemade Ice Cream is a small shack beside Beaver Tails in the Byward Market. The shack has been there for over 30 years, according to their Facebook page, and their prices reflect this. You can buy a jumbo dog or polish sausage, with your choice of toppings, for only $2, and soak in the beauty of the Byward while you enjoy it!

4. Hot Diggity Dog

It would be impossible to list the best hot dog locations in Ottawa without mentioning at least one hot dog cart. Hot Diggity Dog is a staple of downtown Ottawa, and is on the corner of Bank St and Laurier Ave. For just $3, you can grab an authentic dog from this convenient cart with your choice of toppings. 

5. South Street Burger

South Street Burger in Lansdowne Place is a chain, but that doesn’t make their gourmet dogs any less tasty. They only have one option for a hot dog, but with over 30 toppings to choose from, you can customize and deck it out to match whatever it is that you’re craving. Best of all, their beef is free of hormones, antibiotics, additives, and preservatives, according to their website. 

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