Milwaukee's best hot dogs: Your ultimate guide

The Milwaukee metro area delivers a robust scene of Vienna Beef classics, gourmet creations, and nostalgic drive-in experiences that'll satisfy the whole family. From authentic Chicago-style dogs "dragged through the garden" to creative craft concoctions, our region benefits from its proximity to the Windy City while adding distinctly Wisconsin touches—think cheese curds on the side and frozen custard for dessert. We've scoured Milwaukee County, Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington, Racine, and Kenosha counties to bring you 45+ family-tested destinations where you can grab a quality frank.

What makes Milwaukee's hot dog culture unique? Unlike Chicago's rigid hot dog orthodoxy, our region embraces both tradition and innovation. You'll find purists serving Vienna Beef dogs with sport peppers and celery salt alongside creative chefs topping dogs with mac and cheese or pulled pork. Many of our best hot dog spots are frozen custard stands—a Wisconsin specialty that means you'll always have dessert covered.

Milwaukee County

The Dogg Haus — Brady Street

Address: 1433 E. Brady Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 727-1224
Hours: Monday–Thursday 11 AM–10 PM; Friday–Saturday 11 AM–3 AM; Sunday 11 AM–10 PM

This Brady Street institution has been serving Vienna Beef dogs since 2005 and has earned "Best in Milwaukee" honors from the Shepherd Express, Milwaukee Magazine, and WISN. The build-your-own option lets picky eaters customize their dog, while adventurous types can try signature creations like the Kansas City (Italian beef and hot dog combo with BBQ sauce and cheddar) or the Wisconsin dog topped with cheese curds. Hot dogs run $3.49–$5, making this budget-friendly for families. Street parking can be challenging on weekends, but daytime visits with kids are much easier. The late-night hours make it perfect for post-event dining.

Portillo's — Greenfield

Address: 8705 W. Sura Lane, Greenfield, WI 53228
Phone: (414) 877-5400
Hours: Monday–Thursday 10 AM–10:30 PM; Friday–Saturday 10 AM–11 PM; Sunday 10 AM–10:30 PM

The famous Chicago chain delivers the authentic experience with dogs "dragged through the garden"—mustard, relish, celery salt, onions, tomatoes, pickle, and sport peppers on a steamed poppy seed bun. Kids love the 1930s Prohibition-era themed décor, and the drive-thru is a lifesaver with antsy little ones. Regular dogs start around $4–5, with combo meals at $9–12. Exclusive to Wisconsin locations: char-broiled Usinger's bratwurst with Bavarian-style sauerkraut. The large free parking lot and family-style dining room make this one of the most accessible options for families. Don't skip the famous chocolate cake shake for dessert.

Sammy's Taste of Chicago — West Allis

Address: 1234 S. 108th Street, West Allis, WI 53214
Phone: (414) 774-0466
Hours: 10:30 AM–7 PM (check Facebook for updates)

Owner Sammy Bohringer opened this authentic stand in 1989, bringing genuine Chicago taste to Milwaukee. Hot dogs run just $2.80–$3.80, with Sunday specials dropping many dogs to $2. The counter-service spot with indoor seating features old car memorabilia décor and uses quality franks. Milwaukee Magazine has recognized Sammy's as one of the best hot dog spots in the area. The strip mall parking lot provides ample spaces, and the no-frills atmosphere welcomes families. Also try the Italian beef sandwich ($4.45) and wash it down with a Sprecher Root Beer float.

Dawg City Hot Dogs — Downtown

Address: 275 W. Wisconsin Avenue (inside 3rd Street Market Hall), Milwaukee, WI 53203
Second Location: 5900 W. North Avenue (North Avenue Market)
Phone: (414) 517-7821
Hours: Monday–Thursday 11 AM–8 PM; Friday–Saturday 11 AM–10 PM; Sunday 11 AM–7 PM

This Black-owned business founded in 2021 serves 100% all-beef natural casing hot dogs with a satisfying snap. The menu draws inspiration from East Coast and Southern flavors—try the Philly Cheesesteak Dog or the Boss Hogg loaded with pulled pork and BBQ sauce. Specialty dogs run $6–10. The 3rd Street Market Hall location is ideal for families with picky eaters since other vendors offer different cuisines. Games are available in the food hall, and corn dogs appeal to younger kids. Downtown parking ramps serve the area.

Mike's Red Hots — North Milwaukee

Address: 6914 N. Teutonia Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53209
Phone: (414) 228-7080
Hours: Check for current hours (typically lunch through early dinner)

The same owners have operated Mike's for an impressive 54 years, serving Chicago-style dogs at unbeatable prices. Regular dogs start at just $1.34, with Super Chicago dogs at $3.29–3.79. Their daily specials sweeten the deal: Tuesday brings half-off second dogs, Wednesday knocks $1 off Italian beef, and Friday features Super Chicago Dog specials. The loyalty program rewards frequent visitors with a free meal after 10 visits. Family-friendly with street and lot parking.

Real Dogs — Downtown Cart

Address: 111 E. Wisconsin Avenue (corner of Wisconsin & Water), Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 732-1374
Hours: Typically 10 AM–3 PM weekdays, weather permitting (seasonal—closes winters)

This legendary street cart has served downtown Milwaukee for 20+ years, featuring Usinger's sausages including hot dogs, all-beef smoked sausages, and jumbo options. Prices run $3–5. Owner Rick Karbash reportedly brings in over $1,000 daily from his loyal customer base outside Chase Tower. The outdoor cart experience is quick and fun for kids, though winter closures mean this is strictly a warm-weather destination. Downtown metered parking and ramps serve the area.

Leon's Frozen Custard — South Side

Address: 3131 S. 27th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53215
Phone: (414) 383-1784
Hours: Open daily year-round (closed major holidays)

This 1942 landmark delivers pure nostalgia with its iconic neon signage and classic drive-in atmosphere. Hot dogs here are basic at under $3—but you come for the experience and the legendary butter pecan custard, not gourmet franks. The large parking lot gets packed on warm evenings, so arrive early. Kids love eating outdoors while watching cars cruise through. A Milwaukee tradition for over 80 years.

Dooby Dogs — Bay View Food Truck

Current Location: The Mothership, 2301 S. Logan Avenue, Milwaukee
Hours: Check Instagram @doobydogs for current schedule (typically Wednesday–Sunday)

Founded by Mitch Ciohon of Taco Moto fame, this Grateful Dead-themed food truck serves creatively topped gourmet dogs and corn dogs. Prices run $6–10. The truck moves seasonally—it spent summer at Boone & Crockett's riverfront patio before winter quarters at The Mothership. The casual food truck experience delights kids, especially the corn dogs. Street parking varies by location.

George's Big Dogs — Downtown Mobile Cart

Locations: Mobile cart found near U.S. Bank Center, Fiserv Forum area
Hours: Daytime, weather dependent

For a quick, affordable bite before Bucks games or downtown events, George's serves hot dogs at just $2.50 with brats and Polish at $3.50. Multiple carts operate at various downtown locations. The friendly service and rock-bottom prices make this perfect for families heading to events.

Ozaukee County: North shore favorites

Dr. Dawg — Thiensville

Address: 105 W. Freistadt Road, Thiensville, WI 53092
Phone: (262) 302-4023
Hours: Monday–Saturday 11 AM–8 PM (kitchen); Bar until 10 PM; Sunday CLOSED; Open for all Packer games

Consistently rated among Milwaukee's best, Dr. Dawg serves Vienna Beef dogs with an option to have them boiled, grilled, or "ripped" (lightly deep-fried). The Chicago dogs come fully loaded, and 12-inch jumbo dogs cost $6.99 while regular dogs run $3.89. Combo meals with fries and drink hit around $6.49. The restaurant features a nice patio for outdoor dining and welcomes leashed dogs. The Shepherd Express named it a Best of Milwaukee finalist. While slightly north of the city, the quality makes the drive worthwhile. Dedicated parking lot available.

Wayne's Drive-In — Cedarburg

Address: 1331 Covered Bridge Road, Cedarburg, WI 53012
Phone: (262) 375-9999
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 11 AM–8 PM; Monday CLOSED
SEASONAL: Open early April through mid-November only

This 1950s-style drive-in housed in a distinctive 12-sided building has served families for 27 seasons. Vienna Beef Chicago dogs cost $5.69 (with $0.25 donated to the Cedarburg Community Scholarship Fund), while Junior Hot Dogs for kids run $3.39. Kids' meals including hot dog, fries/tots, and drink cost $6.59. The nostalgic atmosphere includes indoor booths, outdoor picnic tables, and Wednesday Corvette Nights plus Thursday Classic Cruise Nights—events kids absolutely love. Cedar Crest ice cream offers 12+ flavors, and "Pup Cups" for dogs (mini cone with vanilla and Milk Bone) make it truly family-friendly. Free Wayne's VIP App for mobile ordering. Large parking lot with "LOTS of parking." Perfect before/after visiting historic downtown Cedarburg.

Out & Out Custard, Eatery and Catering — Cedarburg

Address: W61N305 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI 53012
Phone: (262) 377-5515
Hours: Daily 10 AM–8 PM

A Cedarburg staple for nearly 20 years, Out & Out offers Chicago Red Hots alongside their legendary mac and cheese (18+ years perfecting the recipe). Budget-friendly pricing and a walk-up window make ordering easy with kids. Outdoor patio seating shines on sunny days, with indoor seating for inclement weather. Gluten-sensitive options include brown rice pasta and millet bread. Won "Neighborhood Favorite" on Nextdoor multiple years. Located in charming downtown Cedarburg—perfect for combining with a family stroll through antique shops.

The Kabab Shack (formerly Oh My Dog) — Bayside

Address: 8838 N. Port Washington Road, Bayside, WI 53217
Phone: (414) 797-0470
Hours: Monday–Sunday 11 AM–9 PM (verify current hours)

Originally opened as "Oh My Dog," this spot evolved into The Kabab Shack but still serves quality Chicago-style and Coney dogs alongside excellent Middle Eastern fare. The dual concept works perfectly for families where some want hot dogs and others prefer falafel or shawarma. Very reasonable pricing. Strip mall parking lot with ample spaces. Call ahead to confirm hot dog availability.

Estabrook Beer Garden — Shorewood/Whitefish Bay Border

Address: 4400 N. Estabrook Drive, Milwaukee (Estabrook Park)
Hours: Seasonal (late spring through early fall)

For families combining outdoor adventure with hot dogs, this beer garden adjacent to the 3-acre Estabrook Dog Park serves hot dogs and pretzels alongside Munich Hofbräuhaus beers for parents and sodas for kids. Leashed dogs welcome at picnic tables. The beautiful park setting on the Milwaukee River offers playground areas and nature exploration. Park along the parkway for access.

Waukesha County: Suburban gems worth the drive

John's Drive-In — Waukesha

Address: 1317 Arcadian Avenue, Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (262) 542-2842
Hours: Monday–Tuesday 11 AM–4 PM; Wednesday–Saturday 11 AM–8 PM; Sunday 11 AM–7 PM

A Waukesha institution since the 1950s, John's serves classic dogs at unbeatable prices: hot dogs at $2.38, chili dogs at $2.81, and creative options like the Nacho/Bacon Dog at $3.52. The outdoor play area and multiple picnic tables in grassy areas make this ideal for families with energetic kids. Drive-up service available year-round. Famous for their homemade root beer (available by the quart and gallon). Also serves Friday fish fry and frozen custard. Wheelchair accessible with ample parking.

Portillo's — Brookfield

Address: 17685 W. Bluemound Road, Brookfield, WI 53045
Phone: (262) 289-3390
Hours: Monday–Thursday 10 AM–10:30 PM; Friday–Saturday 10 AM–11 PM; Sunday 10 AM–10:30 PM

The first Wisconsin Portillo's location delivers the same authentic Chicago-style experience as Greenfield—dogs "with everything" on steamed poppy seed buns, plus the Wisconsin-exclusive char-grilled Usinger's bratwurst. Large indoor dining with 1950s Americana décor, drive-through for convenience, high chairs, and vegetarian options. Located near Brookfield Square shopping center for easy trip combining. $4–7 per dog. Large parking lot.

Bubba's Frozen Custard — Pewaukee

Address: 1276 Capitol Drive, Pewaukee, WI 53072
Phone: (262) 695-8189
Hours: Monday–Thursday 10:30 AM–9:30 PM; Friday–Saturday 10:30 AM–10 PM; Sunday 10:30 AM–9:30 PM

Family-owned since 1998, Bubba's serves Vienna Beef Red Hots alongside their award-winning custard. Try the Chicago Dog (fully loaded) or the Milwaukeen Dog (with sauerkraut and dill pickle). Dogs run $3–5. Indoor and outdoor seating with 4 outdoor tables that welcome pets. Drive-through available for convenience. Home of the Wisconsin Cheesehead Burger—pair cheese curds with your dog for the full Wisconsin experience. Named 2009 Business of the Year.

LeDuc's Frozen Custard — Wales

Address: 240 W. Summit Avenue, Wales, WI 53183
Phone: (262) 968-2894
Hours: Daily 11 AM–9 PM

Ranked #1 restaurant in Wales on TripAdvisor, LeDuc's has used the same original custard recipe since 1980. Hot dogs cost just $2.39, chili dogs $3.49. Free WiFi and outdoor patio seating. Pet-friendly outdoor tables. Convenient location at Highways 83 and 18 makes it accessible by bike. Over 75 different daily custard flavors keep kids coming back. They serve Delafield Brewhaus Root Beer. Their frozen custard pies (9" with 5 pints) are perfect for family gatherings.

Rochester Deli — Downtown Waukesha

Address: 143 W. Broadway, Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (262) 522-9611
Hours: Monday–Thursday 10 AM–7 PM; Friday 10 AM–8 PM; Saturday 11 AM–6 PM; Sunday CLOSED

Ranked #3 of 149 restaurants in Waukesha with a TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice award, this family-owned deli serves The Deli Dog: Vienna All-Beef Hot Dog steamed then grilled, with ketchup, tomatoes, onions, sport peppers, relish, and mustard on a poppy seed bun—served with deli salad, chips, and pickle. While known for their incredible hand-carved corned beef Reubens, the gourmet dog experience stands out. Connected to Periwinkle's Bakery for amazing desserts. Full catering with Vienna dogs for family events. Downtown street parking.

Oscar's Frozen Custard — Waukesha

Address: 21165 E. Moreland Boulevard, Waukesha, WI 53186
Hours: Typically 10:30 AM–10 PM (NOTE: Location rebuilding after 2024 fire—check oscarscustard.com for updates)

Serving Wisconsin families since 1984, Oscar's offers hot dogs around $2.29–2.39 alongside their famous custard. The Waukesha location suffered fire damage in 2024 and is reconstructing a "brand-new location that will honor the Oscar's you know and love." Drive-through available. Check their website for reopening status and alternative Milwaukee locations.

A&W Restaurant — Hales Corners

Address: 5133 S. 108th Street, Hales Corners, WI 53130
Phone: (414) 425-1010
Hours: Monday–Saturday 7 AM–9 PM; Sunday 8 AM–4 PM

This American icon since 1919 serves classic hot dogs, chili dogs, and corn dog nuggets (5pc and 10pc) for $3–6. The signature frosty mugs for root beer made with real cane sugar delight kids. Full sit-down restaurant with kids' meals including dessert. Wisconsin cheese curds pair perfectly with dogs. Breakfast available for early birds.

Washington County: Custard stands and hidden finds

Jumbo's Frozen Custard — West Bend

Address: 1014 S. Main Street, West Bend, WI 53095
Phone: (262) 334-5400
Hours: Sunday–Thursday 10:30 AM–10 PM; Friday–Saturday 10:30 AM–10:30 PM

The premier hot dog destination in Washington County, Jumbo's serves praised Chicago-style dogs alongside their famous custard. Hot dogs typically run $3–5, meals with sides around $8–12. Indoor and outdoor seating available. A popular gathering spot for local families and youth sports teams. Daily "Flavor of the Day" custard keeps kids interested. Clean, welcoming environment with on-site parking. Visit jumbosfrozencustard.com for details.

Robert's Frozen Custard — Germantown

Address: N112 W16040 Mequon Road, Germantown, WI 53022
Phone: (262) 250-1683
Hours: Monday–Thursday 10:30 AM–9 PM; Friday–Saturday 10:30 AM–10 PM; Sunday 10:30 AM–9 PM

This established custard stand serves Vienna hot dogs with cheddar cheese sauce for $4–6. Drive-thru window provides convenience with kids. Kids' meals available. Their award-winning homemade chili makes an excellent hot dog topper. Free WiFi. Extensive menu beyond typical custard fare including wraps and salads. Visit robertsfrozencustard.com.

Five Guys — Germantown

Address: 12840 Pinnacle Drive, Germantown, WI 53022
Hours: Daily 11 AM–10 PM

The national chain serves all-beef kosher-style hot dogs fully customizable with cheese, grilled onions, mushrooms, jalapeños, peppers, relish, mustard, ketchup, and A.1. sauce. Dogs run $5–8. Free peanuts while waiting. Clean, quick-service environment with kids' meals. No MSG. Shopping center parking with ample spaces.

The Sinister Dog — Food Truck

Location: Various locations in Washington County, primarily West Bend area
Hours: Varies by location and event

This mobile gourmet hot dog option appears at events, festivals, and business parking lots. Estimated $5–10 per dog. The food truck experience delights kids. Follow on Facebook ("The Sinister Dog food truck") for schedule.

Culver's — West Bend & Hartford

West Bend: 2350 W. Washington Street, West Bend, WI 53095 — (262) 338-1177
Hartford: 1455 E. Sumner Street, Hartford, WI 53027 — (262) 673-5454
Hours: Typically 10 AM–10 PM daily

Wisconsin's beloved chain serves beef hot dogs on steamed buns for $3–5. Drive-thru available. Indoor and outdoor seating. Kids' meals with toy options. Famous frozen custard for dessert. Clean restaurants that support local community events.

Dairy Queen — Kewaskum

Address: 118 County Road H, Kewaskum, WI 53040
Phone: (262) 626-4774
Hours: Seasonal/Varies—call ahead

Classic hot dogs and chili dogs for $3–5. Drive-thru and outdoor seating available. Pet-friendly outdoor tables. Blizzards for dessert. Good stop en route to Kettle Moraine areas.

Sweet Dreams — Hartford (Opening 2025)

Address: 675 Grand Avenue, Hartford, WI 53027
Hours: Planned 11 AM–10 PM, six days weekly

This beloved former Mickey's Frozen Custard location is being revived by Sweet Dreams (with Hartland and Waukesha locations). Expected menu includes hot dogs, burgers, and custard. Car shows and "Two-wheel Tuesday" events planned for family entertainment. Should open by late March 2025—call to confirm before visiting.

Racine County: Craft dogs and Chicago influence

Dogs & Cream — Racine

Address: 2721 Douglas Avenue, Racine, WI (also Sturtevant location)
Website: dogsandcream.com
Hours: Monday–Wednesday 10 AM–11 PM; Thursday–Saturday 10 AM–12 AM

Founded in 2018 with a mission of "Changing lives one hot dog at a time," Dogs & Cream serves approximately 18 hot dog varieties including the Mac 'n Cheese Dog, Hotlanta Dog, and Chicago Dog described as "authentic just like downtown." Prices are moderate with excellent value. Drive-thru available. Vegan options at Racine location. Frequency card program awards a free dog after trying 8 varieties. Coloring pages for kids. "Dog of the Month" promotions. Live musical entertainment at times. Slogan: "Hot Dogs Done Right!"

Tino's Carry Out — Racine (2 Locations)

Washington Ave: 1100 Washington Avenue, Racine, WI 53403 — (262) 633-7777
Hours: Monday–Friday 9 AM–9 PM; Saturday 9 AM–8 PM
Lathrop Ave: 2300 Lathrop Avenue, Racine, WI 53405 — (262) 554-7772
Hours: Monday–Saturday 11 AM–8 PM

Family-owned for 30+ years, Tino's specializes in Chicago-style fast food that makes Chicago transplants feel at home. Chicago-style All-Beef Dogs cost just $3.50 with mustard, pickles, onions, relish, tomato, peppers, and celery salt. Footlong Maxwell Street Polish runs $6.50. Their Italian beef is praised as "best in the Kenosha area" by Chicago natives. Drive-through available. Quick service—call ahead for 10-minute pickup. Owner Tommy personally interacts with customers.

Flippy's Fast Food — Burlington

Address: 401 N. Pine Street, Burlington, WI 53105
Phone: (262) 763-6754
Website: flippysfastfood.com
Hours: Daily 10 AM–9 PM (delivery available)

Family-owned for 30 years, Flippy's serves what reviewers call the "Best Chicago Dog in Wisconsin." Affordable pricing with reasonable portions. Also serves gyros, Italian beef, tamales, fish fry (everyday), and Eli's Cheesecake. Clean, friendly atmosphere with plenty of seating. Sponsors community youth baseball. Catering available.

Hawgz Dogs — Food Truck

Location: Mobile serving Burlington, Rochester, Waterford & Racine County
Website: hawgzdogs.com
Health Score: 98/100

All-beef gourmet hot dogs, Coney Dogs, and Italian Beef sandwiches. Follow on Facebook for locations at special events and festivals. Available for catering and private family events.

Kenosha County: Where Chicago influence runs deep

Trolley Dogs — Downtown Kenosha

Address: 5501 6th Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53140
Website: trolleydogs.com
Hours: Open daily (hours vary seasonally)

Operating since 2003, Trolley Dogs is considered the most authentic Chicago-style spot in the county. The signature Trolley Dog combines a jumbo Vienna Beef hot dog AND a steamed beef tamale on the same poppy seed bun—a unique creation. Classic Chicago dogs come fully loaded. Also serves Octo-Dogs (kid-friendly), gyros, and falafel (vegetarian). Budget-friendly pricing. The trolley theme pays homage to Kenosha's famous electric streetcar system, with actual streetcar track overhead. Indoor dining with charming décor plus outdoor seating. Street parking in downtown Kenosha.

Interstate Dogs — Kenosha

Address: Corner of I-94 and Highway 50 (inside Stein's BP Gas Station), Kenosha
Website: interstatedogs.com
Hours: Sunday–Thursday 10 AM–7 PM; Friday–Saturday 10 AM–8 PM

Don't let the gas station location fool you—this hidden gem serves authentic Vienna Beef franks on proper poppy seed buns. Budget-friendly with generous portions. Small indoor seating area. Delivery available. Conveniently located minutes from the Illinois border—perfect for travelers. Gas station parking provides ample spaces.

Old Chicago Red Hots — Kenosha

Address: 4623 75th Street, Suite 12, Kenosha, WI 53142
Phone: (262) 484-4048
Hours: Summer (April 1–October 31) 10 AM–9 PM; Winter (November 1–March 31) 10 AM–8 PM; Delivery 11 AM–Close

Chicago-style hot dogs, gyros, Italian beef, and burgers at affordable prices. Counter service with casual, relaxed atmosphere where families can sit as long as they like. Varied menu pleases different tastes. Plaza parking. Convenient location off Highway 50 and I-94.

The Spot Drive-In — Kenosha

Address: 2117 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53143
Phone: (262) 654-9294
Website: spotdrivein.com
Hours: Sunday–Thursday 11 AM–3 AM; Friday–Saturday 11 AM–3:30 AM
CASH ONLY (ATM on premises)

Established in 1945, The Spot is Southeastern Wisconsin's premier drive-in featuring classic carhop service—servers bring food to your car and hang it on your window. Jumbo hot dogs, chili dogs, and mini corn dogs at affordable classic prices. Homemade root beer and orange soda made on-site from original family recipe. Fresh burgers (never frozen). Frozen custard and milkshakes. Vintage 1950s atmosphere. Fun fact: 2012 Miss America Laura Kaeppeler worked here as a carhop during high school. The carhop experience is a must-do for kids.

Big Lou's Standing Room Only — Kenosha

Address: 635 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53143
Phone: (262) 658-4776
Website: biglouscheesesteaks.com
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 11 AM–7:45 PM; Sunday 12 PM–7:45 PM; Monday CLOSED (limited hours after Labor Day)

Red Hot Chicago Dogs (100% beef) alongside famous cheesesteaks. Small indoor seating plus great outdoor patio for mild weather dining. Good for kids. Pet-friendly outdoor seating. Quick counter service. True to its name, limited indoor space—"Standing Room Only." Great for picnic-style dining at nearby lakefront parks.

The Brat Stop — Kenosha

Address: 12304 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Phone: (262) 857-2011
Website: bratstop.com
Hours: Daily 8 AM–12 AM

While famous for bratwurst, this Wisconsin landmark since 1961 serves a Quarter Pound Frankfurter (pork and beef) for $10.59. The real draw for families: pool, darts, video games, golf simulator, rides for kids, outdoor beer garden, live music Saturdays, and family-friendly trivia Fridays at 7 PM. Gift shop with Wisconsin souvenirs including "cheesehead" hats. Known as the "50-yard line between Packers and Bears." Large parking lot. Very large space with extensive seating—great for groups.

Regional food trucks worth tracking

Several mobile vendors serve greater Milwaukee with quality dogs:

Rawlz Dawgz (rawlzdawgz.com) — Vienna Beef Chicago-style dogs on steamed poppy seed buns serving all Wisconsin including Waukesha County events. Available for private events and public locations.

Hawgz Dogs & Sandwiches (hawgzdogs.com) — Gourmet dogs serving southeastern Wisconsin including Waukesha and Racine counties. Corporate events, summer festivals, and private party catering.

Dooby Dogs (@doobydogs on Instagram) — Grateful Dead-themed creative dogs in Milwaukee's Bay View area with seasonal locations.

The Sinister Dog — Washington County mobile vendor at West Bend area events and festivals.

Planning your hot dog adventure

Best budget options (under $3): Mike's Red Hots ($1.34), John's Drive-In ($2.38), LeDuc's ($2.39), Oscar's ($2.29), Sammy's Sunday special ($2)

Best Chicago-style purists: Portillo's, Sammy's Taste of Chicago, Dr. Dawg, Trolley Dogs, Flippy's, Tino's Carry Out

Best nostalgic drive-in experience: The Spot (carhop service since 1945), John's Drive-In (1950s classic), Wayne's Drive-In (cruise nights), Leon's Frozen Custard (iconic neon)

Best outdoor dining with kids: Wayne's Drive-In (picnic tables, play area), John's Drive-In (outdoor play area), Dr. Dawg (patio), Estabrook Beer Garden (park setting)

Best gourmet/creative options: Dogs & Cream (18 varieties), Dawg City Hot Dogs, Dooby Dogs, The Dogg Haus

Best frozen custard combos: Wayne's Drive-In, Bubba's, LeDuc's, Oscar's, Jumbo's, Robert's, Out & Out

Best late-night options: The Spot (until 3:30 AM), The Dogg Haus (until 3 AM weekends)

A note about seasonality: Many Wisconsin hot dog spots—especially drive-ins and custard stands—operate seasonally or with reduced winter hours. Wayne's Drive-In closes November through March. The Spot and beer gardens scale back in cold months. Always call ahead or check social media before making a special trip, particularly from November through March.

Whether you're craving an authentic Chicago dog dragged through the garden, a creative gourmet creation, or a nostalgic carhop experience your kids will never forget, greater Milwaukee delivers. Grab some napkins, order extra sport peppers, and dig into our region's deliciously diverse hot dog scene.