Then: We've been fans of tater tots since our grade school cafeteria days. So when Happy Dog opened in 2009 with its throwback tribute to hot dogs ($5 for unlimited toppings) and those golden fried potato nuggets ($2.50 per basket), we saved all our lunch money for a trip to the Gordon Square Arts District spot. With Happy Dog's grown-up dipping sauces, such as black truffle honey mustard and saffron aioli, our taste buds graduated to the next level. Now: The West Side spot's fun mix of food and music — plus its basement, dubbed the Underdog, known for its pinball machines and special Thursday night burger menu — led co-owner Sean Watterson to open an East Side place inside the historic Euclid Tavern in 2014. In July, the restaurant was rated the second best hot dog joint in the nation by Foursquare. "We took some pleasure in beating every place in Chicago," says Watterson. "We did kick some butt." 5801 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-651-9474; 11625 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-231-5400, happydogcleveland.com

Best of Cleveland 2015: All-time Favorite: Happy Dog
Known for their bar vibe, music and all the toppings you could want, this hot dog joint will have you smiling from ear to ear.
best of cleveland
12:00 AM EST
September 21, 2015