5 Hot Dog Spots To Relish

Dan’s Dogs  
Why we love it: Go back to the 1950s in this diner that has more than 50 ways to dress your dog. Checkered floors, pink Cadillac booths and an old Wurlitzer Jukebox send you back in time while you munch. “We like to say that we have the pleasures of the past in the present,” says owner Paul Davis. Try this: The taco dog ($3.49) with refried beans, cheddar cheese, house-made sour cream sauce, black olives and green onions. 111 W. Liberty St., Medina, 330-723-3647, eatdansdogs.com

Happy Dog 
Why we love it: Try something more outlandish with a choice of 50 toppings. Cover your frank in mac ‘n’ cheese, Froot Loops, SpaghettiOs or even a sunny-side up egg. “We wanted to have some stuff that you would never think to put on a hot dog,” says owner Sean Watterson. Try this: The Symon ($6), inspired by Michael Symon, tops an all-beef hot dog with chunky peanut butter, Sriracha and alien pickle relish. 5801 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-651-9474; 11625 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-231-5400, happydogcleveland.com

Old Fashioned Hot Dogs 
Why we love it: The restaurant still uses the chili recipe Emanuel Vicillio created in 1928 as well as the cast-iron grill and simple cash register that made the place popular. “We’ve been here as a nine-stool diner, and we aren’t changing anything,” co-owner Loretta Sorma says. Try this: The original chili dog ($1.75) served on a steamed bun with chili meat sauce, mustard and freshly chopped onion. 4008 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-631-4460

River Dog Cafe 
Why we love it: It’s not the same old dog and bun at this joint. Each house-made Angus beef quarter-pound dog is served on a house-made bun and comes with a side of house-made chips. “You get more of a meal here,” says owner Christian Barnes. Try this: The Adam Bomb ($7) topped with smoked, beer-braised brisket, crumbles of bacon and house-made cheese sauce. 19900 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 216-767-5559, riverdogcafe.com