This 24th of April, celebrate International Hot Dog Day, a dish loved worldwide. Hot dogs are a favourite, thanks to their simplicity and the array of ingredients that can be added to the bread and sausage, blending with local tastes. However, in their traditional form, they tend to be high in calories and low in nutrients, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.
In Tenerife, hot dogs have long been a popular choice. They are a go-to dish for kids looking for fast food and a preferred snack for many adults, especially after a night of revelry (particularly during Carnival).
The popularity of hot dogs has led to them evolving beyond their traditional form: more and more eateries offer versions with additional ingredients or modern twists. While some spots are renowned on the island, as per diners’ feedback on leading tourism platform TripAdvisor, here are the top three places for a lip-smacking hot dog in Tenerife:
La Concepción Puppies
Situated in the heart of the historic centre of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, this spot almost achieves the highest user rating on the review website (4.8 out of 5).
Apart from its charming décor, this eatery offers reasonable prices and quality fare. It’s usually busy, so booking ahead is advisable. “The ultimate spot for getting your hot dog fix,” says one patron, while another notes, “Consistently excellent service and lightning-fast.”
The establishment’s success has earned it a prestigious Travelers Choice award from the travel portal.
Burger Mel
Among the most well-known fast food joints in Tenerife, Burger Mel is famous for its hot dogs. Situated in the heart of Santa Cruz of Tenerife, it’s considered a “must-visit” spot.
Patrons value the friendly service and quality ingredients at Burguer Mel, leading to a four-star rating from TripAdvisor users.
Salina Express Bar Cafeteria
In one of the municipalities with a rich touristic history, Puerto de la Cruz, lies another renowned spot to savour a delicious hot dog. The Salina Express Bar Cafeteria in the central Plaza del Charco attracts both locals and numerous tourists exploring the city who end up choosing this fast food favourite.
With a rating of 3.5, this northern Tenerife establishment is applauded for its quick service and boasts an indoor terrace.
What About Mr. Smile?
A true classic, Mr. Smile’s central location in Santa Cruz de Tenerife has made it a legendary spot in the city and on the entire island. The speedy service of the staff behind the counter as they prepare the hot dogs could easily become a meme if social media had been around sooner.
Despite the affection and loyalty of the locals towards Mr. Smile, the eatery doesn’t receive high ratings on TripAdvisor and settles for a three-star rating. However, it’s worth noting that many complaints focus on waiting times as the place is always bustling.
