Hot Dogs! Get Your Hot Dogs in Delco, PA!

If you’re reading this during the dog days of summer, then you’ve probably had your share of hot dogs at picnics, carnivals and “downashore,” plus your fill from hometown favorites. For those popping in during other times of the year, rest assured that you still can get that summertime feeling from any of these Delco hot dog purveyors. Some have “hot dog” in the name, others are local staples that turn out a delicious dog. 

And about the Texas Tommy, which appears on many of these menus: Did you know that,  despite its name, it was invented in Pottstown, PA in the 1950s? It’s a hot dog with bacon and cheese; it was originally split and grilled, with cheese piled in the middle and finally wrapped in bacon, which was popular in women’s magazines at that time. In Delco, you’ll see variations on the theme — of course! — and there’s nothing stopping you from adding extras. The origin of the name? It’s pretty unclear, but local lore has it that it may have something to do with the general conception back then of hot dogs as a “Texas thing” on the East Coast.

 

Spots that are All About the Dogs

 

The Hot Dog Stand

Get your small town, family vibe on here, whether you pull up to a counter, sit outdoors or do takeout. The menu’s short-and-sweet with your hot-off-the-grill basics: hot dog, cheese dog, chili cheese dog and the Texas Tommy — plus a few other Delco faves (hot roast pork!) to keep everyone happy. Bonus: Extra toppings are free!

401 W. MacDade Boulevard & Virginia Ave., Folsom, (610) 915-3777.

 

RJ’s Hot Dog Stand 

Yes, this local favorite opens at 6 a.m., because they “don’t trust people who don’t eat breakfast”! Still, the name says it all, and despite a hefty menu, the hot dogs get the glory at this no-frills joint. Grab a seat at the indoor counters or outdoor tables, or call for takeout and try a regular old hot dog, slaw dog, chili dog, cheese dog, chili cheese dog, jalapeno dog or the Texas Tommy (bacon and cheese!).

41 Wyandotte St, Lester, (610) 521-5511.

 

Relish

Relish, located in Milmont Park, Ridley, is a must-visit for hot dog lovers. Founded by Ridley native Jamie Campbell, this eatery specializes in Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs with a variety of homemade relishes, including green sweet dill and hot pepper. A standout item is “The Ridley Ripper,” a deep-fried hot dog with cheese whiz. Beyond hot dogs, the menu features burgers, kielbasa, roast pork sandwiches, and homemade beignets. With a welcoming atmosphere and online ordering options, Relish has quickly become a local favorite.

 

Restaurants with Darn Good Dogs on the Menu

Little Hut Sandwich Shop

This one makes our list because you can request your hot dog well done, and for the sheer number of toppings you can pile on a hot dog. We like some of the non-traditional hot dogs, like spinach, but you can’t go wrong with fried hot peppers, mustard and sauerkraut. You can customize your Texas Tommy with any number of cheeses; we love that the default is Cheez Whiz!

650 E. Chester Pike, Ridley Park, (610) 532-9679.

 

Dairy Cottage

It’s billed as “a hometown family restaurant,” and that’s how it feels, whether you stay in or do takeout. Among items on its family-friendly menu is a hot dog that you can top with cheese and a Texas Tommy: Simple, filling and delicious — a staple since 1975. Pro tip: Save room for a signature sundae; it is, after all, called the Dairy Cottage.

328 W. Woodland Ave., Springfield, (610) 328-4875.

•••

 

Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Contact us at (610) 565-3679, by email, or online.

— Nina Malone

 

Featured photo courtesy of The Hot Dog Stand