Hey Hot Dog
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Hey Hot Dog

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A Joliet classic known for its unforgettable homemade root beer and craveable hot dogs, served with a unique drive-up experience.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Hey Hot Dog

Hey Hot Dog

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Joliet classic known for its unforgettable homemade root beer and craveable hot dogs, served with a unique drive-up experience.

"The best hotdogs and bbq sandwich 😊 The root beer is amazing."

TIP

Cash is King

Remember to bring cash, as this establishment is cash-only.

Weather Permitting Picnic

Visit on a nice day to enjoy their outdoor picnic tables.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Open¡Closes 7PM

Cuisine

American

Price

$

Phone

(815) 723-5487

Address

601 Ruby St, Joliet, IL 60435, USA

✨

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Homemade Root Beer

Iconic Homemade Root Beer

A must-try beverage, their homemade root beer is a staple, even served as a float.

Google Review+3
Classic Hot Dog Experience

Classic Hot Dog Experience

Delicious hot dogs, including Chicago-style and chili dogs, made with fresh ingredients.

Google Review+2
Unique Drive-Up Service

Unique Drive-Up Service

Experience a nostalgic drive-up where staff take your order right at your car.

Google Review+1
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Chicago Style Hot Dogs are one of Earl’s favorite foods, and the dogs at @Jody’s Hot Dogs are top tier! #hotdogs #chicagostyle #jolietillinois #foodreviews #foodtiktok
@tknearl
125 likes • 2.9K views

Cash is King

Remember to bring cash, as this establishment is cash-only.

Weather Permitting Picnic

Visit on a nice day to enjoy their outdoor picnic tables.

Joe’s Hot Dogs Joliet Illinois, 7.4. Hot dog w/ everything, polish w/ mustard and onions, and cheese fries. A Joliet institution that is a must if you are in the area.
@jimsworsky
59 likes • 2K views
@The Joliet Slammers drop over 2000 hot dogs from a helicopter to beat the Guinness World Record sponsored by @Pabst Blue Ribbon 🌭🍺 #hotdog #baseball #joliet #jolietslammers #pabstblueribbon #worldrecord #guinnessworldrecord
@ashley.hare
619 likes • 19.7K views

Must-Try Dogs

Don't miss the Chicago-style and chili dog options.

Record number of 🌭 dropped from the sky.⁠ ⁠ The Joliet Slammers, as part of a partnership with Pabst Light, set an unconventional world record: the most hot dogs dropped in an hour from a helicopter.⁠ ⁠ #hotdog #chicagodog #baseball #jolietslammers #wienerdrop⁠
@nbcchicago
11.6K likes • 188.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Cash is King

Remember to bring cash, as this establishment is cash-only.

Weather Permitting Picnic

Visit on a nice day to enjoy their outdoor picnic tables.

Must-Try Dogs

Don't miss the Chicago-style and chili dog options.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hey Hot Dog is celebrated for its delicious homemade root beer and classic hot dogs, often praised for their fresh ingredients and friendly service. While many enjoy the unique drive-up experience, some reviews mention long wait times or occasional sold-out items. The cash-only policy and lack of fries are noted, but overall, it's a beloved local spot for a satisfying and nostalgic meal.

"Great weather so we sat outside on their shaded picnic tables. The people serving were just so friendly and accommodating and cheerful! Wife love her chili dog and me my Chicago dog. Chili sauce excellent. Root beer excellent!"

Dave

"Only my second or third time here, so not a familiar face. Today, I was one of first customers of day, and owner couldn't make change for my $20. He gave me my bill back and told me, we're good, pay me next time. Who does that today? What a good dude! Support him!"

Douglas Lucas

"First time there today. Owner was super nice. Hot dog different than a typical Chicago dog with the Milano bun. Got a kraut dog as well was excellent. Get a root beer you’ll thank me later"

Nick Francone

What People Like

Homemade root beer
Freshly made hot dogs
Friendly service

What People Dislike

Cash-only policy
Occasional sold-out items
Long wait times

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Hey Hot Dog is a cash-only establishment. It's recommended to bring cash when you visit.

Hey Hot Dog is famous for its delicious homemade root beer and a variety of hot dogs, including Chicago-style and chili dogs.

14 Unique things to do in Joliet, ILGoogle Review

No, Hey Hot Dog does not serve fries. They offer chips as a side.

Google Review+1

The dining experience is primarily drive-up service, with outdoor picnic tables available in good weather. There is no indoor dining room.

Google Review+1

Customers highly recommend the Chicago-style hot dog and the chili dog. The Elote with sweet corn is also a standout.

Google Review+2

Yes, their homemade root beer is a must-try and can be enjoyed on its own or as a float.

Google Review+2

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This restaurant is renowned for its variety of homemade hot dogs and root beer, and it’s a Joliet native’s favorite. Sarah Vogel, Vice President of Will County Lodging Association, recommends these best bites on the menu as “Hot dogs with a homemade root beer on the side. Root beer is the only pop sold here, and it goes into a float with hand-dipped French vanilla ice cream in a frosty mug.

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Hey Hot Dog is the number one go-to hot dog spot for their out-of-this-world wieners and homemade root beer. Many other hot dog locations can be found throughout the city, though, including Jody’s Hot Dogs and Joe’s Hot Dogs.

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Hey Hot Dog (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Food Guide