7. Let’S Be Frank At Helms Bakery

It’s tempting to say it’s the luscious onions, caramelized to black, that make the dogs at the Let’s Be Frank truck so darn satisfying. But really it’s not just one element. There’s also the nicely seasoned signature grass-fed beef dog, a toasty bun, those aforementioned onions and upon request, a hit of Devil Sauce, a complex blend of jalapenos, vinegar, brown sugar, ginger and cumin that might be your hot dog’s new best friend. The guy who’s usually taking the money (and doing the cooking) suggests adding sauerkraut and Gulden’s mustard. He’s right. The seating isn’t fancy - a few concrete benches across Helms Avenue from Father’s Office. But what more do you need on a sunny So Cal day? Maybe an ice cold Boylan’s black cherry soda. Fortunately, they’ve got those too.

Let’S Be Frank At Helms Bakery

More information:

Address:

8758 Venice Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90034

Phone:

00 1 (626) 446-7668

Website

http://www.letsbefrankdogs.com/

8. MEEA’S

This easy-to-miss storefront - just look for the Taco Bell next door - might be the city’s most civilized dog spot. You order at the tidy counter and then take a seat on the expansive, prettily landscaped patio. Minutes later, your dog is delivered. The buns here deserve special mention - homemade, super soft (but sufficiently supportive), slightly sweet and topped with poppy seeds. They’re a great vehicle for the Chicago Dog, topped with electric green relish, mustard, celery salt, a fat crisp pickle wedge, sliced tomato, and sport peppers. Meea’s also makes their own veggie dogs using beans instead of the more typical tofu.

MEEA’S

More information:

Address:

1734 Colorado Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90041

Phone:

00 1 (323) 285-4850

Website

http://meeas.net/