10 Iconic North Carolina Hot Dog Stands Still Making Chili Slaw The Old-Fashioned Way

North Carolina knows how to do hot dogs right. For decades, family-owned stands across the state have been serving up chili slaw dogs made with recipes passed down through generations.

These aren’t your average ballpark franks—they’re delicious traditions wrapped in a bun, topped with secret-recipe chili and tangy slaw that keeps folks coming back year after year.

1. Pulliam’s (J.S. Pulliam Barbeque)

Family recipes have a way of sticking around, and at Pulliam’s, they’ve been perfecting their chili slaw dogs since way back when. The chili here isn’t just dumped from a can—it’s simmered low and slow with spices that make your taste buds do a happy dance.

Locals swear by the balance between the savory meat chili and the crisp, vinegary slaw. It’s the kind of place where regulars know each other by name and newcomers quickly become part of the family.

Pulliam’s remains open in Winston-Salem, serving its famous hot dogs and barbecue Tuesday through Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday. The stand has stayed true to its roots, refusing to cut corners or modernize what already works perfectly. Every bite tastes like a trip back in time.

2. Yum Yum Better Ice Cream & Hot Dogs

With a name like Yum Yum, you know you’re in for a treat! This spot has been dishing out happiness in bun form for generations, combining two of life’s greatest pleasures: hot dogs and ice cream.

Their chili recipe is a closely guarded secret, rumored to include ingredients that would make your grandmother jealous. While slaw is sometimes added, the signature here is the chili dog paired with a scoop of homemade ice cream.

After polishing off your dog, grab a cone for dessert—because why choose between savory and sweet when you can have both?

3. Zack’s Hot Dogs

Sometimes the best things come in simple packages, and Zack’s proves that point deliciously. There’s no fancy decor or Instagram-worthy murals here—just honest-to-goodness hot dogs made the way they should be.

The chili at Zack’s has that homemade taste that reminds you of Sunday suppers at grandma’s house. It’s thick, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with their tangy slaw that cuts through the richness.

Zack’s, founded in 1928 in Burlington, is still open and family-run, now offering slaw as an optional topping alongside their classic chili dogs.

Regulars have been making pilgrimages here for decades, and once you taste their old-school approach, you’ll understand the devotion. No shortcuts, no substitutions—just pure hot dog perfection in every single bite.

4. Shorty’s Famous Hot Dogs

Don’t let the name fool you—there’s nothing small about the flavor at Shorty’s! This legendary joint has been slinging famous dogs for so long that parents bring their kids to experience the same tastes they grew up loving.

The chili here is the stuff of legend, cooked using a recipe that’s older than most of the customers. Shorty’s, open in Wake Forest since 1916, serves classic chili dogs with optional slaw—a long-standing local favorite.

Walk through those doors and you’ll be greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of chili bubbling away. One bite and you’ll join the ranks of devoted fans who wouldn’t dream of getting their dogs anywhere else.

5. Snoopy’s Hot Dogs & More

Good grief, these hot dogs are amazing! Snoopy’s brings a playful spirit to serious hot dog business, serving up chili slaw dogs that would make Charlie Brown forget all his troubles.

The chili recipe here has been tweaked and perfected over countless batches until reaching that sweet spot of spicy, savory, and downright addictive. Slaw is available on request, though most Snoopy’s fans stick with the classic chili, mustard, and onion combo that’s been popular since 1978.

The “& More” in the name isn’t just for show—they’ve got plenty of options. But honestly, why mess with perfection when their classic chili slaw dog is sitting right there on the menu, calling your name?

6. The Roast Grill

Since 1940, The Roast Grill has been a Raleigh institution that refuses to mess with a winning formula. This tiny spot packs enormous flavor into every dog that crosses the counter.

Their chili is the real deal—seasoned just right and cooked with the kind of patience that modern fast food joints have forgotten exists. The Roast Grill keeps things simple: charred dogs, mustard, chili, and onions—no ketchup, and slaw only by special request.

Space inside is tighter than your jeans after eating three dogs, but that cozy atmosphere is part of the charm. Generations of families have squeezed in here, creating memories one delicious bite at a time.

7. Kermit’s Hot Dog House

It ain’t easy being green, but it sure is easy loving these hot dogs! Kermit’s has been a beloved fixture in the community, serving up chili slaw dogs that make every day feel like a celebration.

The secret to their success lies in that bubbling pot of chili that’s been made the same way for decades. Rich, meaty, and perfectly spiced, it blankets each hot dog like a delicious hug.

Located in Winston-Salem since 1966, Kermit’s serves traditional footlongs with chili, mustard, and onions—slaw optional but highly recommended. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular who visits weekly, Kermit’s treats everyone like family and serves up consistency you can count on.

8. Hot Dog World

Welcome to a world where hot dogs reign supreme! Hot Dog World takes its name seriously, creating a universe of flavor centered around perfectly cooked franks topped with traditional chili and slaw.

Their chili recipe is a point of pride, simmered for hours until every ingredient melds into something magical. The slaw adds that essential crunch and tang that transforms a good hot dog into a great one.

Hot Dog World in Hendersonville is still going strong, offering its famous chili-slaw dogs alongside burgers and fries to a devoted local crowd. Despite offering plenty of topping options, the classic chili slaw dog remains the undisputed champion here.

It’s what built their reputation and what keeps customers orbiting back again and again for another taste of hot dog heaven.

9. Paul’s Place Famous Hotdogs

Paul knew what he was doing when he opened this place, and the proof is in every perfectly dressed hot dog that leaves the kitchen. Famous isn’t just marketing hype here—it’s a well-earned reputation built on decades of deliciousness.

The chili at Paul’s has that homemade quality that can’t be faked or rushed. It’s the kind of recipe that gets whispered about in hushed, reverent tones among hot dog enthusiasts.

Paul’s Place, open in Rocky Point since 1928, is best known for its homemade sweet relish and chili dogs, with slaw offered as an extra topping.

Each hot dog becomes a testament to the power of doing things right. Paul’s Place proves that when you stick to traditional methods and quality ingredients, fame naturally follows one satisfied customer at a time.

10. Trolly Stop

All aboard the flavor train! Trolly Stop brings a touch of transportation nostalgia to the serious business of serving outstanding chili slaw dogs to hungry passengers.

Officially spelled “Trolley Stop,” this Wrightsville Beach favorite has been serving steamed hot dogs since the 1970s, featuring classic toppings like chili, slaw, mustard, and onions. Each batch of chili is carefully prepared to maintain the consistency that loyal customers have come to expect and crave.

The slaw provides that perfect acidic punch to balance the rich chili, creating harmony in every bite. Whether you’re making a quick stop or settling in to savor your meal, Trolly Stop delivers a destination-worthy hot dog experience that’s worth the trip.