How to order a hot dog in English

Hot dogs are an American staple, especially in New York. So, next time you're in the US, here's how you can order a hot dog in English. Known also as a frank, a frankfurter, or a wiener, you can buy one from a store, a concession stand, or a wiener cart. Regardless of where you buy it, the ordering process remains the same.

The process: Meat, bun, and toppings

To get the perfect hot dog, you need to specify the type of meat, bun, and toppings you want.

For a plain hot dog on a regular bun, simply say, "Can I get a hot dog?" or "Can I get a frankfurter?" If you want a specific quantity, you can say, "I'd like two franks, please." Some places allow you to add your own toppings, while others will ask, "How would you like that?" or "What would you like on it?" This is your cue to state your preferences.

If you prefer your hot dog without any additions, say, "I'll take it plain," or "I don't want anything on it." For specific requests, such as "I'd like an all-beef hot dog on a regular bun," "I'd like a turkey hot dog on a toasted bun," "I'll take a vegetarian hot dog on a steamed bun," or "Let me have a kosher hot dog with a gluten-free bun," be clear and concise.

Remember, kosher hot dogs adhere to Jewish dietary regulations, and gluten-free foods lack proteins found in certain grains.

When adding toppings, integrate them into your order, such as "Let me get a hot dog with ketchup" or "I'll have a turkey hot dog with mustard." For multiple toppings, say, "I'd like a hot dog with ketchup, mustard, sauerkraut, and relish."

Condiments

Relish and other condiments enhance flavor.

For example, if you desire a hot dog with chili meat sauce, yellow mustard, cheddar cheese, and raw onions, ask, "Can I have a chili dog? At places like 7-Eleven, you'll find franks of various sizes and flavors. For a longer hot dog, say, "I'd like a foot-long frank." For a plumper one, request a "Big Bite," and for a spicier option, ask for a "Spicy Bite Hot Dog."

Different types of hot dogs

In the US, regional variations are taken seriously. In Chicago, for a hot dog with yellow mustard, green relish, chopped onions, pickle spears, sport peppers, tomato slices, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun, say, "Can I have a Chicago Dog?" At Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, you can request a " Dodger Dog," which is a beer-soaked, 10-inch hot dog with yellow mustard, onions, ketchup, and sweet relish.

In New York, at Nathan's Famous Franks, for a traditional New York Empire Dog with kraut and spicy brown mustard, say, "Can I have a New York Empire Dog?" In Maryland, at the Dog Haus, for a bratwurst with sauerkraut, White American cheese, onions, and mustard aioli, say, "Can I have Das Brat?" These regional variations add excitement to trying different hot dogs across the country.

Wherever you are in the United States, there's a hot dog for you. Just specify the type of meat, bun, and toppings you prefer, and you're in for a treat! Ordering a hot dog in English is simple and enjoyable. Remember to use these phrases when placing your order, and don't hesitate to ask for clarification if needed.