venue Hot Doug’s
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Mark Dawursk
A standard Chicago-style dog with all the trimmings.
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Mark Dawursk
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Mark Dawursk
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Mark Dawursk
An extremely popular “encased meat emporium,” Hot Doug’s inspires fierce devotion from its many fans. In a city with numerous sausage stands, Hot Doug’s menu distinguishes it: The daily and weekly specials can be unbelievably complex, such as savory ostrich sausage with cassis crème fraiche, cherry-cheddar cheese, and vodka-soaked dried cherries. Good luck finding that anywhere else. Specials can include everything from smoked alligator sausage with remoulade and blue cheese, salsa pork sausage, Thai chicken sausage, and anything that comes through owner Doug Sohn’s brain. Purists, of course, can choose from a number of plain ol’ Chicago-style dogs as well. Be prepared for long lines and 20- to 30-minute waits for lunch. The wait, though, is always worth it. Just make sure to go the ATM ahead of time, as Doug only accepts cash.
Features: food, outdoor seating, cash only
