The hot dog is a primary example of our American heritage. Passed down from Austrian and German immigrants, the hot dog is by far one of America’s favorite foods. But what makes a hot dog great isn’t just how its put together or what garnishes are used, but where its made. When it comes down to the best hot dogs in the United States there will always be contention, but here are some of the best places in the country to get yourself that perfect dog. Gray’s Papaya — Finding a tasty hot dog in New York City is as easy as walking to the nearest street corner and grabbing your favorite condiments. But, what separates good from great is how long that dog had to endure sitting in the oddly grey water of the local street vendor. For dogs fresh off the grill, Gray’s Papaya is a great place to enjoy the eclectic combination of hot dogs and tropical fruit juice. Though seemingly on opposite ends of the spectrum, the two flavors really work well together. Not to mention, hot dogs must be eaten in shops covered in brightly colored signage declaring “Let’s be frank…buy our furters.”Hot Doug’s — The Chicago dog is simply in a class of its own. The trimmings and condiments must be perfect, and there can be no substitution. You will find no ketchup in a Chicago hot dog shop so don’t bother asking. But, the Chicago dog is one of the best combinations of flavor ever created by man. Hot Doug’s is the best place in Chicago to eat one of these Midwestern delicacies, so don’t miss out. If you’re not in the mood for the Chicago, then be sure to try any of Hot Doug’s celebrity dogs, like The Elvis, smoked and savory — just like the king. Nathan’s Famous — This is where it all began, on Coney Island, the start of America’s hot dog craze. Nathan Handwerker, Nathan’s namesake, opened a shop on the corner of Surf and Stillwell selling hot dogs for five cents. But with time, Nathan’s has grown into a national powerhouse of the hot dog. It would be heretical to not try one of these dogs. Nathan’s is also famous for the July 4th hot dog eating contest, where current champion Joey Chestnut will try to defend his title against rival Takeru Kobayashi. Rutt’s Hut — New Jersey has always had a tough situation. Not quite part of New York or Pennsylvania, New Jersey needed a way to set its dog apart. Somewhere along the line, a frankfurter was dropped in a fryer and the rest is history. Rutt’s Hut in Clifton is one of the best places to enjoy one of these objects of gastronomic delight. Though a fried hot dog is not exactly the healthiest option, it is one of the tastiest foods you can eat. Otto’s Sausage Kitchen — Portland isn’t often the first place you think of when it comes to the hot dog. But Otto’s can compete with the best. Its hot dogs are far more traditional, made with local meat and made in the German tradition. Otto’s offers 50 different type of sausages to try. Though this dog may not be covered in many condiments, sometimes the meat should stand by itself. Pink’s — Los Angeles is full of people who made it, haven’t made it, and are trying to make it. Rarely do these three populations meet, but at Pink’s studio heads, starving actors, business executives and mail boys all meet in pursuit of Los Angeles’s greatest hot dog. Whether you like it traditional or a little more eclectic, Pink’s has something for everyone. In true California fashion, Pink’s offers a two-dog, tortilla wrapped, Guadalajara dog which every visitor should try.Photo credit: flickr cc TheBusyBrain