The food and culture site Thrillist.com this month released its list of “the 21 best hot dog joints in America,” and the 107-year-old Simones’ World Famous Hot Dogs in Lewiston made the cut.
Then-U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud shares a laugh with owner Jimmy Simones of Simones World Famous Hot Dogs while campaigning in Lewiston in 2004.
The popular and unassuming Simones’ has become a go-to spot for candidates seeking to connect with “Main Street” voters while campaigning for any statewide or 2nd Congressional District office.
But what brings people to Simones’ isn’t the opportunity to chat with politicians. It’s those “world famous” hot dogs.
“All we care about is how good they taste, especially when steamed up by Simones’ and served with a little splat of chili and cheese. Like a lobster roll, they’re served on a split-top bun. Unlike a lobster roll, they’ll cost you $4.”
Some of the other places on the list are Happy Dog in Cleveland, The Vanguard in Milwaukee, The Varsity in Atlanta and Franks & Dawgs in Chicago. Click here to see the full list and read about each of the 21 hot dog joints.
If you’re looking for more top hot dog choices around the state, Eater Maine released its “essential guide to Maine hot dogs” earlier this year and is worth perusing. Among the places featured in that list are Wasses, located in the midcoast, The Family Dog in Orono, Danny’s in Brunswick and the Portland food truck El Corazon.
