50 Best Hot Dogs near Forest Park

“Good food“

“It's my neighborhood go to. I ate dinner from their last night 🌉. Their food is so good and the service is cool. It's like I know them all, I only be going to Sub Tender for 20 plus years, and I still enjoy it. Thank Sub T. Looking forward to my chocolate & banana 🍌 shakes“

“Went to portillo's because it was my birthday today the cashier made a mistake charged me for my free chocolate cake! I told the manger he fix it right away thank you very much my friend I appreciate that! And give me two chocolate cakes for the mistake from the cashier! I will recommend this place everyone is friendly!“

“A no frills experience but a very good burger, especially for the price. The food was very good, I had the RHR double cheeseburger, it was moist, greasy, and really tasty. The chips were good and it was a big portion. You can choose what you want in the burger and service was quick. The train is VERY loud going overhead but it gives the place a Chicago charm. Would recommend and will visit again. It's cash only, ATM charges $2 for a withdrawal.“

“Solid great prices always people in and out all day and night.“

“When it comes to hidden gems in The Windy City, Budacki's Drive In can be counted among them. It's practically tucked away in the Ravenswood neighborhood near a school, but quite an awesome find for quintessential Chi-Town staples such as the Italian beef and the red hot.

I have a cousin who grew up within walking distance of Budacki's so it's a huge part of his life story, even after he moved to the suburbs. That said, he tends to take me or my older brother here whenever either one of us come to visit from Texas. It's safe to say that we share his immense love for the nearly 50-year-old hole in the wall.

Up until Thursday, I had two visits. For my most recent one, I ordered the Letter A , or the red hot combo. Aside from a pair of what I believe are the best hot dogs in the world, the meal comes with fresh cut fries and a drink. I confess that I didn't get a good look on the price, but I can assure you that you get your money's worth.

Each of the red hots was made fresh and specific to my request. I wanted them dragged through the garden, and the kitchen staff delivered. What I sunk my teeth into are a Vienna beef decorated with a tomato, sport peppers, a pickle spear, onions and hints of salt and mustard. All of which are held together in a soft bun.

The dogs were paired with a delicious, abundant amount of fries. They were so good that I finished them even before the tube steaks themselves. In Chicago, it's nearly a law to keep your red hots free of ketchup and on your fries, but I ate my long taters without ketchup. That's how tasty they were. Before I forget, I should mention that there's an outdoor dining area for customers to enjoy their food at.

The neighborhood Budacki's is in has gone through several changes, but the restaurant has withstood the test of time. Sadly, however, the heir to the business, Jae Lee, recently passed away. And this review is dedicated to his memory.“

“Best Hot Dogs in Chicago! I drive from Indiana just for a Mighty Dog!“

“friendly staff, food is always warm, and yummy“

“Allll I have to say is YUMMMMYYYY to my tummy“

“Ate at Jimmy's years ago . Hey JIMMY . Take some red hots to the announcers at the track this weekend . Get your name on the air . Your dad would bring Red Hots to the Field when Sal raced there .“

“I have no idea what to expect“

“like a dream had went back for a second round Thanks!“

“I had to try it today before going back to FL delicious 😋.“

“Absolutely loved everything about Nicky's! From the moment we walked in, the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making the experience even better. The restaurant was spotless, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

The food was outstanding, and the hot dog was easily one of the best I've ever had. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and prepared perfectly. Between the delicious food, exceptional cleanliness, and fantastic customer service, Nicky's is a true hidden gem that shouldn't be overlooked. I highly recommend stopping by—you won't be disappointed.“

“The Best! The best fries, the best steak sandwich, the best hamburgers, the best everything!“

“Fantastic chilli cheese dog.“

“First , the smoke and aroma comin’ out the roof exhaust pipes . Lol 😛 Known for their hamburgers , dogs , apparently everything else on their menu is good . Being a member of Chicago Italian Beefs fB page , I just HAD to try theirs . Pretty darn good ! 9.0/10 Sweet n hot , dipped , nice crinkly fries 🍟 comin’ for da ride , and a tamale 🫔 to wash it down . Nice job guys at the PP in Des Plaines !!!“

“This is a neighborhood staple! Good food great people!“

“Gpay didn't work and I had no physical card. After trying the Gpay several times, I gave up. The manager asked for the drink I was drinking back, lol. I got in the car, saw my wallet in the seat and decided not to go back in. I drove out of my way to try this food, but this experience with being asked for the drink back was shocking. #theapartmentlady“

“In its category in Chicago this is the BEST we had. Absolutely excellent Italian beef with great fries. Gentleman at register was also very nice and informative about what we can get.
It was a raining cold spring day 2026.
4 star instead of 5 is because we wish there was a bit more seating inside.“

“Total child hood nostalgia for anyone who has grew up in the area. The food tastes the same as it did in the 90's, and is my go to fast food joint. Hotdogs, gyro, bulgogi, are among my faves. Definitely give it a try if you're ever in the area.“

“This is MUST any time we're around town.
The guys have been consistently making the best food and best conversation for 50+ years. My dad brought me as a kid and now I'm bringing mine.
This place is a REAL, ungentrified chicago eaterie.
Do not miss it!“

“Horrid! As a native Chicagoan I never expected to be disappointed by a neighbourhood hot dog stand. Yesterday, for the first time I went to Jr’s Red Hots. For starters they messed up the order of two hotdogs with fries. Instead we received two overcooked polish sausage with greasy fries. I couldn’t consume more than two bites of either. It was obvious the grill and oil from deep fryer aren’t routinely cleaned. Failed on a grand scale!!!! Never going back to Jr’s.“

“Iconic!! Came here in 2009. Great food at a great price! If you come to Chicago, you have to try Jim’s!!“

“Fast and friendly service. Food was amazing and at a great price. Definitely a new favorite spot!“

“Delicious food and great customer service!“

“We came here for lunch a few days ago unplanned after doing some work Resolution. I’m glad we did!!

We had a few dogs and I tried their gravy bucket which was amazing. Yes it was 90 degrees the other day but whatever, it was fire. Chili and Tamale in a cup. Super. The dogs were tasty and the fries were crispy.

The staff were friendly and the seating has a few booths. My big hang up was parking. It was limited on a Wednesday afternoon at 1p.

I can’t wait to come back.“

“Got The Dogzilla and The Lord Byron burger, both Byron's style. Staff was very nice and quick and the food was great. If you're ever in the area, make a stop here. It's worth it. Awesome place and good food.“

“Food is absolutely delicious5, everything I've tried. I'm ready to have it again. I just wish they would trim the one inches high entryway outside a bright yellow. I've even red around the yellow to draw attention to the "trip", at other establishments. It's just an accident waiting to happen. Thank you.“

“Great food, friendly staff, great service.“

“Great Hotdogs loaded with topings and I got a burger too. Fries are crispy and seasoned perfectly. Staff is pleasant and helpful. I will come back here again!“

“tasty char dogs and delicious shakes, I had the banana and my brother enjoyed his oreo“

“The best Italian Beef and Chicago-Style hot dogs 🌭! Love this family.“

“My FAVORITE grilled chicken sandwich! Everything is amazing! Highly recommend!“

“Great selection and halal!“

“At first, I was a little apprehensive because this is inside the Home Depot, but the food was absolutely fabulous. The hotdog was great. It was my first Chicago hotdog and the hot peppers are very hot.! the guys behind the counter were very friendly… fantastic location, fantastic food highly recommend“

“Went for a late weekday lunch. Just ordered the Chicago dog, fries and soda. Hit the spot! More of a takeaway place for locals. No real parking, only paid street parking. A small counter to stand and eat if you'd like (I did). Nice owner.“

“This place is the best food stop in Jefferson Park. The customer service is 10 out of 10. The food is amazing and the prices are awesome. I’m here all the time whenever I can highly recommend for real and the lady working there is super nice. You guys will see!“

“Honestly one of the best airport fast food experiences I’ve ever had. Prices were okay, menu is large, everything is made to order, staff were friendly and seemed to be having a good time. Short line, food was ready about 10 min after I ordered at the kiosk. Kiosk allows for customization. As I was leaving one of the workers asked if I wanted a free order of onion rings since they made some that didn’t get picked up. So rings, dog, and drink for about $15? Hard to get that kind of deal at the airport!“

“BOIIIIIIIIII TTTSSSS HOUND DOG BURGERSSSS WAS SOOOOO TUFFFF 😂😂🗣🗣🗣🔥🔥🔥 ME AND DA BOIIISS WENT AND ORDERED THE HOUND DOG MEAL WIT MUSTARDD AND MA MOMMA AITE FRIES AND IT CAME IN JUST 6 7 MINUTES 🔥🔥🔥🔥 AND THEN ELVIS PRESLEY HIMSELF CAME AND SANG DA HOUND DOG SONG 🔥🔥🔥😩😩“

“We often stop by this diner when we’re out running errands 😊🍽️ It’s a great little spot for a quick and satisfying bite without any hassle. My husband and I really enjoy coming here because the food is always consistent and tasty 👍✨
Their gyros are especially impressive - big in size, juicy, and full of flavor 😋🥙 The shoestring fries are always perfectly crispy and fresh, just the way we like them 🍟🔥 It’s hard to stop eating them once you start!
For the kids (and honestly adults too 😄), the corndogs are a popular favorite 🌭👏 and the Chicago-style hot dogs are also really well made and delicious 💯🌭 Overall, it’s a reliable place with good food, quick service, and a relaxed diner vibe that keeps us coming back 😊❤️“

“Incredibly delicious Chicago dogs and milkshakes.“

“Stopped by for a quick lunch after grocery shopping. My friend ordered the Saturday special—the Super Burger, a massive ½‑lb burger served with fries. I wasn’t as hungry, so I went with the patty melt instead.

The Super Burger lived up to its name and was topped with grilled onions and mozzarella cheese. My patty melt was spot on: crispy bread and a perfect burger‑to‑grilled‑onions ratio. I also grabbed a large fountain drink, and refills were $1.

The interior has been recently updated, and they’re clearly making good use of the space, including a half‑booth facing the window. The booths were comfortable, making it an easy place to sit and enjoy lunch.“

“First time trying this GEM! AMAZING food! Never have been here before, but we'll worth it. Steak burger and a polish with fries. So good!“

“Best place ever! lived in this place as a kid. Come home a few times a year and this is always the 1st place i hit. Best food ever!“

“I’ve been going there for 35 years and I’ve never had a bad dog from this place. And the fries are made fresh in front of u. Always crisp. I believe that if u want a 20 dollar gourmet hotdog this ain’t the place. U wanna hood Chicago dog the way it’s suppose to be made, Jacks got it.“

“Visited yesterday for the first time from NW Indiana. Great Food- Hot Dogs were great!! French Fries- OUTSTANDING Gice them a try - you won't be dissapointed. Very nice people. Very Clean!! WE'LL BE BACK!!“

“great burgers 🍔, dogs and gyros“

“Best gyros ever“

“Good food an friendly service“