These Tennessee Hot Dog Joints Are Still Slinging Old-School Chili Slaw Dogs Locals Swear By

I’ve eaten my fair share of hot dogs across Tennessee, and I can tell you the real ones come from small family stands that have been around forever.

You’ll spot them by the long lunch lines and the smell of chili in the air. Each spot has its own twist, but most keep it classic with soft buns, homemade chili, and slaw that hits just right.

It’s the kind of comfort food that doesn’t try too hard, and that’s exactly why people keep coming back.

1. I Dream Of Weenie, Nashville

Nashville’s hot dog scene gets a quirky twist at this punny paradise where the name alone makes you smile before you even take a bite. The menu here celebrates classic Americana with a side of humor.

Their signature chili slaw dog comes loaded with a secret-recipe chili that’s been fine-tuned over years of trial and error. The slaw adds that perfect crunch and tang to balance out the richness.

Locals rave about the generous portions and friendly service that makes every visit feel like catching up with old friends.

2. D & B’s Hot Dogs & Ice Cream, Knoxville

When you want a hot dog followed by a sweet treat, this Knoxville gem delivers both without making you drive across town. It’s a one-stop shop for satisfying all your cravings at once.

The chili here has a slightly spicy kick that wakes up your palate, while the creamy coleslaw cools things down just enough. Regulars know to order extra napkins because these dogs are gloriously messy.

The old-fashioned vibe and combination menu make it a family favorite for weekend outings and summer celebrations.

3. Curious Dog Hotdogs & Sandwiches, Knoxville

Curiosity definitely pays off at this Knoxville spot where traditional meets creative without losing sight of what makes a great dog great. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming to hot dog enthusiasts of all ages.

Their classic chili slaw dog respects tradition with quality ingredients and proper proportions that let each component shine. The bun gets grilled just right so it holds up against all that saucy goodness.

First-timers often become regulars after just one visit, drawn back by consistent quality and reasonable prices.

4. Hot Dog Hut, Kingsport

Sometimes the best meals come from the humblest places, and this tiny Kingsport institution proves that point every single day. Don’t let the simple exterior fool you into driving past.

Inside, the magic happens with chili that simmers low and slow, developing deep flavors that complement rather than overpower the frank. The slaw brings brightness and crunch to every bite, creating perfect harmony.

My cousin swears she drove two hours just to grab a few dogs here, and honestly, I totally understand why.

5. Blue Circle Drive-In, Bristol

Bristol’s beloved drive-in has been serving hungry customers since way back when jukeboxes and roller skates were the height of cool. The nostalgic atmosphere alone is worth the trip.

What keeps people coming back decade after decade is the consistently excellent chili slaw dog that tastes exactly like it did in your grandparents’ day. Nothing fancy, nothing trendy, just pure deliciousness that stands the test of time.

The blue neon sign still glows bright, guiding hot dog lovers home to comfort food perfection.

6. Miss Griffin’s Footlong Hot Dogs, Chattanooga

Chattanooga’s hot dog queen serves up footlongs that require serious commitment and probably a second napkin or three. Size matters here, but so does flavor, and Miss Griffin’s nails both.

The chili recipe has been passed down through generations, maintaining that homemade taste that can’t be replicated by corporate chains. Fresh slaw gets piled on top with a generous hand that shows real Southern hospitality.

Regulars know to come hungry and leave happy, with sauce-stained shirts as badges of honor.

7. Frank Allen’s Market & Grill, Sevierville

Sevierville’s hidden treasure combines grocery shopping with some of the best hot dogs you’ll find anywhere in the Smokies region. It’s an unexpected pairing that works beautifully.

The grill section pumps out chili slaw dogs that have locals planning their grocery trips around lunchtime. Fresh ingredients from the market side make their way onto the grill, ensuring quality in every component.

Grab your milk and bread, then treat yourself to a dog that’ll make the whole shopping trip worthwhile and memorable.

8. Smith & Son Corner Kitchen, Gatlinburg

Tucked into a Gatlinburg corner, this family operation has been feeding tourists and locals alike with honest food that hits the spot. The mountain town setting adds charm to an already delightful experience.

Their chili slaw dog represents everything right about simple cooking done with care and attention to detail. The father-son team behind the counter takes pride in every order that goes out the window.

After a day exploring the Smokies, nothing satisfies quite like one of their perfectly constructed dogs.

9. Parton’s Deli, Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg has another hot dog hero, and this deli serves up comfort food that rivals anything you’d find in bigger cities. The casual vibe makes everyone feel welcome, from hikers to families.

What sets their chili slaw dog apart is the perfect temperature control that keeps everything hot without turning the slaw into mush. That attention to small details separates good dogs from great ones, and these qualify as great.

The friendly staff remembers regulars by name and order, creating that small-town feel tourists love.

10. Parkway Grocery, Townsend

Townsend’s best-kept secret hides inside what looks like an ordinary country store, but locals know better than to judge this book by its cover. The hot dog counter in back draws crowds daily.

Their chili recipe tastes like something your grandmother would make, full of flavor without relying on heat or gimmicks. The slaw provides that essential crunch and acidity that makes each bite interesting from start to finish.

Stop in for supplies, stay for a dog, and leave understanding why small towns do some things better.

11. Small’s Drive-In, Athens

Athens holds onto its drive-in heritage with pride at this retro spot where the past isn’t just remembered but actively celebrated. Classic cars still roll up on weekend nights for good food and good times.

The chili slaw dogs here taste exactly like they did when your parents were teenagers, which is exactly the point. Consistency and tradition matter more than trends, and that philosophy shows in every perfectly assembled dog.

Eating here feels like time travel, minus the complicated physics and with way better food.

12. Honey’s Restaurant, Fayetteville

Fayetteville’s comfort food headquarters serves up hot dogs alongside other Southern classics, but those dogs hold their own against any competition. The family recipes here go back generations.

Sweet and savory flavors dance together in their chili slaw dog, creating complexity that surprises first-timers expecting ordinary fast food. The portions are generous without being wasteful, showing respect for both customers and ingredients.

When locals need reliable comfort food, Honey’s delivers every single time without fail or fuss.