The fourth of July is only a couple of days away, which means that it's time to begin to think about how you're going to celebrate.
If you're hitting a mental roadblock and fireworks aren't your thing, why not gain some inspiration from one of Pittsburgh's most delectable hot dogs? After all, few things scream red, white and blue like a quality foot-long mystery sausage smothered in relish, mustard and good old Heinz ketchup.
In the spirit of Independence Day, Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the 'Burgh's top hot dog shops, using both Yelp data and our own methodology to produce a ranked list of where to head.
1. Yovi's
Topping the list is Yovi's. Located at 477 Graeme St. Market Square in the Central Business District, the spot to score fast food, hot dogs and sandwiches is the highest rated hot dog spot in Pittsburgh, boasting 4.5 stars out of 66 reviews on Yelp.
"Yovi's is pretty fantastic for what it is," wrote Yelper Andy J. "Great Chicago style hot dogs. Great Italian beef with the pepper mix. Excellent french fries."
Here's what Hallie T. had to write:
"You'd walk right be if you weren't looking for Pittsburgh's best kept hot dog secret. Ordered food to go for lunch and it was ready to go in less than 2 minutes. The fries somehow magically don't get soggy and are always delicious. Chili and cheese is my favorite of the hot dog toppings but you can't go wrong with any of them."
"If you're in Pittsburgh and haven't tried Yovi's, you're really, really missing out," added Fox E.
2. Lock & Dam Dog Shop
Next up is Morningside's Lock & Dam Dog Shop, situated at 7331 Butler St. With 4.5 stars out of 20 reviews on Yelp, the hot dog spot is a proven local favorite.
"Pretty awesome and right across from the zoo," wrote Mark D. "The Western Dog was tasty. My daughter had the Bacon Mac Dog. She demolished it."
"I highly suggest the Grunge Dog with cream cheese, jalepenos and onions (and bacon)," added Gordon F.
"This is one of the best places for hot dogs and ice cream in the city," wrote Yelper Brad S. "Clean, friendly service, and a nice selection of unique dogs."
3. Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe
Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe, located at 2401 Noblestown Rd., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the spot to score hot dogs, fast food and burgers four stars out of 27 reviews.
"Classic grilled dogs on steamed buns," wrote Kris M. "Hit the spot."
"Literally the best thing ever," added Emily S. "Such great prices and such great food. This is a Pittsburgh staple that you have to check out."
"The hot dogs have their own unique taste, and that's key to any successful hot dog joint," wrote Jason T. "They certainly don't taste like any of the supermarket majors I've had, which is a plus."
