8 Best Hot Dogs near Independence

“Up Dog: A Savage Feast in Independence The road to Independence, Missouri, stretches like a fever dream under the Midwest sun, a shimmering asphalt ribbon cutting through the heart of Truman’s old stomping grounds. I rolled into town with a head full of static and a hunger that clawed at my gut like a rabid coyote. The mission: Up Dog, a joint so brazen it dares to sling hot dogs and smashburgers in a world drowning in fast-food mediocrity. The address—114 N Liberty St—burned in my mind like a neon sign in a desert night. This wasn’t just lunch. This was a plunge into the wild, greasy soul of America. Stepping into Up Dog is like mainlining 1950s nostalgia straight into your veins. Black-and-white checkered floors gleam under fluorescent lights, red vinyl booths scream of Elvis and drive-ins, and the jukebox hums with rock ‘n’ roll that makes your bones itch to dance. The air’s thick with the scent of sizzling beef and frying onions, a primal perfume that hits you harder than a double shot of bourbon at noon. The kids behind the counter—young, sharp, moving like they’re dodging bullets—take your order with a grin that says they know they’re serving something unholy and delicious. The menu’s a love letter to excess, a carnival of hot dogs dressed up like they’re auditioning for a culinary circus. Chicago Dogs with their poppyseed buns and sport peppers, Detroit Dogs slathered in chili and mustard, New York Dogs with sauerkraut so tart it could make a grown man weep. But the smashburgers—oh, sweet chaos, the smashburgers. Thin, crispy-edged patties, dripping with juice, stacked with cheddar and bacon, served on buns so soft they’re practically a sin. I ordered the Missouri Dog, a beast piled with pickle, bacon, and cheddar, and a smashburger combo with tots that crunched like the sound of victory. The first bite hit like a thunderbolt, flavors exploding in a symphony of salt, fat, and heat. The dog was plump, the bacon crisp, the pickle a sour jab that kept it all honest. The burger? A greasy revelation, each bite a reminder that sometimes the best things in life leave your fingers slick and your heart pounding. The place hums with life—locals jawing over Cokes, tourists snapping pics of the retro decor, kids giggling as they munch on mini corn dogs. The staff, despite the lunch rush, move with the precision of a pit crew, slinging plates and cracking jokes. You can feel the pride here, the kind that comes from knowing you’re not just feeding people but giving them a moment to savor. The prices? Cheap enough to keep your wallet happy, with dogs starting at a few bucks and combos that won’t make you flinch. My meal, a king’s ransom of flavor, set me back less than a twenty, tip included. Up Dog sits on Independence Square, a stone’s throw from the Truman Library, where history whispers in the brick and cobblestone. This ain’t just a hot dog shack; it’s a beacon of joy in a world that’s forgotten how to have fun. The vibe’s so infectious you’ll want to linger, sipping a fountain Coke, soaking in the chatter and the clatter of the grill. It’s the kind of place that makes you believe in the American Dream again, or at least in the dream of a perfect lunch. I left Up Dog with a full belly and a grin that wouldn’t quit, the taste of that smashburger lingering like a good riff in a rock song. If you’re ever in Independence, do yourself a favor: find this joint, order big, and let the madness of Up Dog wash over you. It’s not just food—it’s a wild, beautiful ride, and you’ll want to take it again and again.“

“Ordered online for pickup last night. I have to say this was the best cheeseburger I have had in a very long time! Fresh hot & delicious, but the burger itself wasn’t smashed flat or packed down making it dense like other places. Fries were hot & fresh. Great meal & I will be back, thanks Five Giys!“

“I've delivered food from here a couple times, never eaten here:
The staff always impressed me with how friendly they were. They were noticeably kind and professional - their food could be garbage for all I know, but they deserve respect for going above and beyond to be polite.“

“Very unique an awesome food you must try the chapata and dip it in their beans they make their I can't remember how to say the Little triangle things tapata I think anyway they are very very good and Muhammad and the gang are awesome very good people you must go there at least once you will return just like I have and me and my better half will return again this is me with the love of my life“

“My Gf has been here and I finally had time today. After a long day of work I needed something for my spirit and gd!!!!🙏🏽👏🏽

$20 for a half rack of ribs, fried pickles and potato salad. 10/10. I’d type more but I’m finna be asleep so 😴😴“

“Almost missed it but smelled something delicious as I was headed into the market next door. Stepped in and glad I did. Love is a throwback owner, taking care of guests and mixing it up in the kitchen.

Excited to try more of what is on the menu.“

“Love this place!!! Grandsons have to eat here every time we come to KC.“

“The food was good. The service could definitely be a little better. The guy that took our order did not seem like he wanted to be helping us at all. It seemed like he was bothered that he had to take our order and the line that formed after we made our order moved very slowly.“