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.
More from TBAYtoday
We’ve got the latest on the Rays’ new stadium plans, safety upgrades to a historic Tampa neighborhood, and a Pinelllas Park youth sports complex finally comes to fruition.
Dining in Tampa and St. Pete is always a fresh experience with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
We rounded up rounds of music, drag, and old fashioned bingo across the Gulf Coast area.
Here’s a look at the latest towers and businesses rising up in Tampa and St. Pete.
The economic landscape of Tampa Bay, who’s hiring, and who’s most likely to expand investments into our community.
From Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Parade to a beer and barbecue festival, it’s going to be a busy February weekend across Tampa and St. Pete.
Fit the Surf n’ Turf Alfredo Sundae and other fair delights into your budget.
Get in on the action this Super Bowl Sunday with six local watch parties featuring big screens, a chili cook-off, and food + drink specials.
These local donation sites will collect items like clothing, home goods, diapers, and other things that people may need.
The grand opening of the alpine event is on Friday, Feb. 6 in Northern Italy. We’re imagining how it would go down in the Tampa Bay area.