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Celebrate National Hot Dog Day in Tampa Bay style

Calling all glizzy gladiators to chow down on some local dogs.

Three vegan hot dogs from 3 Dot Dash. One has mustard on it, one has mac and cheese and fries, and the other has lettuce and onion. There is a grey brick wall behind.

Meat-free never looked so good. | Photo by @3dotvegan

Move over Independence Day — July’s biggest celebration has arrived. Each year, July 17 is a chance to honor one of mankind’s greatest creations, the hot dog.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, here are a few of our fave local spots:

  • Mel’s Hot Dogs | In 1973, Mel — a self-described “Chicagoland hippie” — opened his eatery right outside Busch Gardens, where tradition remains in every bite.
  • 3 Dot Vegan Kitchen | The trendy Seminole Heights vegan restaurant serves up delectable dogs, burgers + craft beers to boot.
  • 4th Street Sandwich Shop | The St. Pete spot uses Nathan’s skinless all beef franks for its gourmet dogs, with toppings like chili, slaw, and sauerkraut all on the menu.
  • Diggy Dogs | Often found in Hyde Park, this food truck pops up across Tampa Bay, with a brand new menu featuring almost too many tempting toppings to choose from.
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