
Whether you're craving a classic or something more creative, Portland has a hot dog to suit every taste. But what about the best chili cheese dog in town? For a diner-style experience, Nick's Famous Coney Island has been serving its classic coney dog with bean-less chili sauce and cheese since 1935. If you're looking for something with a kick, Zach's Shack offers a range of unique hot dogs, including the Los Lobos dog with black olives and jalapeños. Bless Your Heart puts a twist on the traditional coney with Carolina chili and beer cheese sauce. For a vegan option, head to 5 & Dime for their Banh Mi dog or Kimchi dog. So, who has the best chili cheese dog in Portland? The competition is stiff, but these spots are definitely worth a try.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best Chili Cheese Dog | Larry's Hot Dog |
| Classic Hot Dog | Nick's Famous Coney Island |
| Vegan Hot Dog | Field Roast |
| Best Happy Hour | Zach's Shack |
| Best Bar Hot Dog | Kenton Station |
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What You'll Learn

Nick's Famous Coney Island
If you're looking for the best chili cheese dog in Portland, you'll want to head to Nick's Famous Coney Island. This iconic spot has been a fixture of the Portland food scene since 1935, serving up classic coney dogs that have stood the test of time.
The history of Nick's Famous Coney Island is part of its charm. Established long before the days of quick cross-country travel, the restaurant brought the Detroit-style coney dog to Portland, where it has remained a beloved staple. The classic coney dog at Nick's features a bean-less chili sauce and cheese, staying true to its roots.
While some patrons rave about the flavorful and generous portions, others note that it can be a bit too much, resulting in what some call the meat sweats. The service at Nick's has been described as slow, but the atmosphere is well-liked, making it a popular spot for enjoying a casual beer.
So, if you're seeking a classic chili cheese dog in Portland, Nick's Famous Coney Island is the place to go. With its decades-old tradition, flavorful offerings, and unique atmosphere, it's an experience that will satisfy your cravings and give you a taste of Portland's culinary history.
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Zach's Shack
If you're looking for the best chili cheese dog in Portland, Zach's Shack is definitely worth checking out. With a fun and unique atmosphere, Zach's Shack combines three of the greatest late-night joys: snacking on hot dogs, drinking tall boys, and playing ping-pong on a patio. While they offer a variety of hot dog options, their Chicago dog is a standout choice. It features pickle spears, neon relish, diced white onion, sport peppers, celery salt, and a poppy seed bun - the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
In addition to classic options, Zach's Shack also gets creative with their hot dog toppings. The Los Lobos dog, for example, is topped with black olives and jalapenos, offering a unique twist on the traditional chili dog. For those who enjoy spicy food, the Grateful (Dead) dog is a flavorful option, loaded with onion, cucumber, tomato, and celery salt. If you're feeling adventurous, the Dylan dog, featuring cream cheese and tomato, is another popular choice.
While some patrons have noted that the service at Zach's Shack can be a bit slow, the quality of the food makes up for it. The hot dogs are sourced from Chicago, ensuring an authentic experience. The bar also offers a full selection of beverages, including unbeatable happy hour deals, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a casual drink and a delicious chili cheese dog.
Whether you're a Chicago-style hot dog purist or someone who enjoys experimenting with unique toppings, Zach's Shack is sure to satisfy your cravings. With a cozy patio, fun games, and tasty food, it's a great spot to spend a summer afternoon or evening with friends, enjoying the simple pleasures of a juicy hot dog and a cold drink.
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Bless Your Heart
If you're looking for the best chili cheese dog in Portland, you'll want to head to Bless Your Heart. This cute, faux-Bavarian A-frame hut, located in a Whole Foods parking lot, is a popular spot for Portlanders. Their coney-style hot dog, the Bless Your Heart dog, is a clear favourite. It's an all-beef frank grilled to juicy perfection, topped with Carolina chilli and beer cheese sauce. If you're feeling extra hungry, go for the classic Coney Island dog, which comes as a single, double, or triple wiener topped with saucy beef, onions, and melted cheese.
For those looking for a late-night bite, Bless Your Heart has you covered. Their hot dogs pair perfectly with their beverage options, including nitro cold brew, draft beers, and rotating wines. And with ample covered outdoor seating, you can enjoy your meal in comfort.
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Larry's Hot Dog
If you're looking for the best chili cheese dog in Portland, look no further than Larry's Hot Dog. With a chill guy named Larry at the helm, this hot dog joint has garnered a reputation for serving up the best chili cheese dog not just in Portland but in the entire country.
The atmosphere at Larry's Hot Dog is just as impressive as the food. It's a chill spot where you can relax and enjoy your meal. The service is friendly and prompt, ensuring that your chili cheese dog craving is satisfied without any lengthy waits. The portions are generous, ensuring you leave feeling satisfied and happy.
Whether you're a Portland local or just visiting, Larry's Hot Dog is a must-try destination. It's a place where hot dog enthusiasts and chili connoisseurs unite, finding common ground in their appreciation for the ultimate comfort food. So, if you're seeking a taste of Portland's best chili cheese dog, make your way to Larry's Hot Dog. You're in for a treat!
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Kenton Station
If you're looking for a hearty meal to satisfy your comfort food cravings, look no further than Kenton Station in Portland. This bar is known for its delicious chilli dog, a classic dish that hits the spot every time.
Imagine a plump, juicy hot dog nestled in a soft, fluffy bun. The dog is grilled to perfection, with a snap to each bite, and topped with a generous helping of chilli. The chilli is a perfect balance of spicy and savoury, with a hint of sweetness, and it's packed with flavour. It's then smothered in melted cheese, creating a gooey, mouthwatering masterpiece. The cheese oozes over the sides, ensuring every bite is packed with flavour.
To accompany this indulgent creation, Kenton Station offers a bed of crispy, golden fries. These fries are the perfect side, providing a satisfying crunch and a canvas to scoop up any toppings that may fall from your dog. The portion is generous, ensuring you won't leave hungry.
The atmosphere at Kenton Station adds to the experience. It's a friendly, laid-back bar where you can relax and enjoy your meal. The service is known to be a little slow, but that just gives you more time to savour your chilli cheese dog and enjoy the ambiance.
So, if you're in Portland and craving a chilli cheese dog, Kenton Station should be at the top of your list. It's a bar that takes this classic dish seriously, delivering on taste, portion size, and atmosphere. Indulge in this comfort food masterpiece and satisfy your cravings!
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Frequently asked questions
Nick’s Famous Coney Island has been described as an "institution" and has been serving its classic coney dog with bean-less chilli sauce and cheese since 1935.
Yes, Bless Your Heart serves a coney-esque hot dog with Carolina chilli and beer cheese sauce.
Zach's Shack, Roakes, and Franks are also popular spots for hot dogs in Portland.
Zach electrifies its patrons with a black olives and jalapeños Los Lobos dog, a cream cheese and tomato Dylan dog, and the Grateful (Dead) dog with onion, cucumber, tomato, and celery salt.
A coney dog is a type of hot dog that originated in Detroit. It typically consists of a bean-less chilli sauce and cheese, and it has become a classic offering at Nick's Famous Coney Island in Portland.
























