1 Persimmon Café
Don’t let the artisan coffees hide the real gem at this new spot: the venison beef hot dog with chutney and mustard on a lanky roll is the real deal. 226 Calhoun St., (843) 937-5399, www.persimmoneats.com
2 Skoogie’s
Family-operated Skoogie’s has been steaming dogs Chicago-style for more than 30 years. Order the “All the Way” with mustard, relish, sauerkraut, peppers, pickles, cheese, tomatoes, and celery salt served on a poppyseed bun. 840-C Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant, (843) 884-0172, www.originalskoogies.com
3 Seppy’s
Chili and pimiento cheese—a match made in hot dog heaven. Ask for “The Lowcountry” at Seppy’s and have it spread on your choice of a smoked sausage, turkey, vegetarian, or old fashioned all-beef dog. 1537-D Ben Sawyer Blvd., Mount Pleasant, (843) 619-1313, www.seppyshotdogs.com
4 RiverDogs
With options like “The Homewrecker,” an all-beef half-pound monstrosity featured on Man vs. Food, it’s the hot dogs that have us heading to The Joe. For local flavor, you can’t beat “The RiverDog” with pickled okra, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce. 360 Fishburne St., (843) 577-3647, www.milb.com
5 Perfectly Frank’s
This Summerville diner serves 40 different “Famous Franks.” Try the tropical Frankie J with bacon, grilled ham, creamy hot sauce, and pineapple. 118 N. Main St., Summerville, (843) 871-9730, www.perfectlyfranksonline.com
6 Jack’s Cosmic Dogs
Vegetarians, if you haven’t tried Jack’s “Vegeroid”—a tofu dog prepared any way you like—you’re missing out. Jamaican relish with sweet red pepper, watermelon, and onion makes the dog. 2805 U.S. 17, Mount Pleasant, or 1531 Folly Rd., James Island; (843) 225-1817, www.jackscosmicdogs.com
7 Johnny’s Hotdogs
Home improvements have you hungry? Stop by Johnny’s in ACE Hardware on Ben Sawyer for Boar’s Head dogs. Try a Greek twist with lettuce, olives, banana peppers, tomatoes, and feta. 883 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Mount Pleasant, (843) 849-5485
