Destination Dogs

Hot dog restaurant · New Brunswick

Destination Dogs

Hot dog restaurant · New Brunswick

1

101 Paterson St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

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Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by Robert Sietsema/Eater NY
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Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
Destination Dogs by null
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Highlights

Easygoing bar & restaurant known for its gourmet hot dogs in many global & regional styles.  

Google Rating
4.7
(2454)
Featured in Eater
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101 Paterson St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Get directions

destinationdogs.com
@destinationdogs

$$ · Menu

Information

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101 Paterson St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Get directions

+1 732 993 1016
destinationdogs.com
@destinationdogs

$$ · Menu

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dine in
takeout
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Last updated

Jul 10, 2025

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"DD is one of the East Coast’s best hot dog purveyors — though the place doubles as a bar popular with downtown workers as well as students. One hot dog can be an entire meal, so each one on its distinctive toasted bun is liberally topped with as many as a half dozen ingredients. A roster of 100 or so toppings allow you to fully customize your frank, but there are also preset combinations named after cities all over the world, most combos invented, but some authentic recreations like the Chicago dog." - Robert Sietsema

Where to Eat Around Rutgers
View Postcard for Destination Dogs

Lindsey L.

Yelp
I am NOT a hot dog person but I LOVE Destination Dogs. Super creative concept. Their varity of "dog" offerings has something for everyone. I've been twice and both times the service was friendly and fast. I could hang out at Destination Dogs for hours. I prefer the downstairs seating to upstairs - but either is good. They have great seating and bar. And look like they could accomodate larger groups. There's tons to try on the menu. In addition to the dogs, we've had the nachos which are really delicious too. Definetly give it a try!

Tahj B.

Yelp
The chicken nachos are everything! I also order buffalo wings (all flats) lol with fries. If you want a quick bite I highly recommend Destination Dogs. Limited parking during the day but at night, there is a parking lot adjacent to the restaurant.

Marc J.

Yelp
Phenomenal - assuming one likes hot dogs. They have the most outrageous selection of hot dogs in one location. They have your standards, like hot dogs, chili dogs, etc., but they also have international selections that are inspired by the geniuses in the kitchen. I had an Asian inspired hotdog that was simply amazing. It was their take on a Banh Mi sandwich, and they nailed it. Asian spices are used in the sausage for the base, followed by cilantro, pickled vegetables, and a hoisin sauce on a pillowy, soft bun. I could have eaten three easily, but wanted to try other things, so stopped at one. The wait staff is super helpful and knowledgeable about their product line, so feel free to ask for suggestions if the menu seems overwhelming. Which it did to me the first time I went there. Only minor downside is since it's a college hangout (right near Rutgers) it tends to get a little loud in there. But that's just a minor complaint, not really an issue. Go check it out! You won't be disappointed.

Roxanne O.

Yelp
We came on a Saturday afternoon and were seated right away. Super cold inside, so we had to go grab jackets from the car, even though it was over 80 degrees outside. Even so, I was cold. We ordered and our food came out quickly. Food was good, albeit a bit messy. I'm glad they have vegan meat options! Our waiter didn't even check up on us once and we waited about a half hour after finishing to get our bill.

Lisa Z.

Yelp
Interesting concept with pretty good execution. They specialize in hot dogs that are themed based on location. Don't expect standard run of the mil options, while they do have standard protein options like beef, chicken, and pork they also have more exotic choices like duck, alligator, and foie gras. You can also sub the protein for a vegan option, but it is an additional $4 which is pretty pricey considering most hotdogs are about $9-$13. They have a great variety of choices; I got the Thailand hotdog and thought the ingredients complimented each other well. I just thought it was a bit too much bread to filling ratio, but I guess the bun does need to be sturdier to withstand the toppings. I think the ratio would be better if you pick the double protein options. The service was okay, nothing to really note. It is a sit-down establishment where there are waiters so it's more formal than most hot dog places.

Cait U.

Yelp
Omg I had the Scarlet Bite New Brunswick (JVI) and it was so good! 1 hot dog is literally enough and it's the best. I honestly love the bread it's on it's not a hot dog bun but slices of bread. I highly recommend this place. The fries are ok but I would be coming back because of the hot dog since it is perfectly cooked and topped with the best toppings. They have it formulated well. Also I would say service is ok but I will be coming back

Laura M.

Yelp
Super delicious and super creative idea. Definitely all the menu is appetizing. The environment was super friendly and the food was delicious, definitely will go back again!

Jason S.

Yelp
(3.5 stars) Was super excited to pick up some hot dogs and fries for dinner, especially with the stellar reviews this place has. I loved the cyclone, could eat that again and again, the think bun, crispy dog, overflowing chili and scallions, great bites. Fries were nice but wish they had more seasoning or a dipping sauce other than ketchup. I also got one with a tortilla and spicy Mayo and it was just super disappointing. The tortilla wasn't crispy and was just a doughy raw exterior. And the sauces didn't really have any heat or exciting flavors.

Kierra P.

Yelp
A unique take on a classic meal. Each hot dog based on a unique location nationally and internationally. They are full of flavor and worth the hassle of paying for parking. Great drinks, I recommend the strawberry lemonade. t's a lively environment with a bar and classic arcade games. The sides are delicious. The biggest issue I had was that the cheese curds were fried, even when on the "poutine" fries. For desert you can't go wrong with any choice (pick the monkey bread).

Kirsten K.

Yelp
Everyone loves Destination Dogs! This bar/restaurant is very popular around town, and all my friends and neighbors go here too. It's a great spot for lunch hour, happy hour, dinner, or the middle of the night. They've got amazing and creative hotdogs and bratwursts, with great flavors themed from places around the world. Reading the puns on the menu is entertaining! Staff is personable, friendly, helpful, and welcoming. This restaurant has a few designated free parking spots and there are also paid public lots nearby. I used to come to this location when it housed a bar called Doll's Place and I liked seeing the old wooden placard from that bar hanging up inside. When you eat here, be sure to check out the foosball and other arcade games in the side room.

Puja D.

Yelp
I've been here a bunch of times! Have tried so many different hot dogs I can't even remember which ones I've tried. I got the Oscar most recently and it was delicious! I've tried many of the international hot dogs including the Vietnamese and the Oaxaca one and they were both fabulous as well. The drinks are also super affordable and it looks like they have a happy hour menu I want to return and try! A must go to if you're passing through the area.

Aysha A.

Yelp
I've both eaten in and taken out from Destination Dogs and never been disappointed. Very kind staff who are friendly and accommodating, especially to dietary needs and requested customizations. There's really something on the menu for all taste palates. I've had domestic (Waco, Oscar) and International (Achilles, Seven Leia, Conquistadog)! Never had a bad meal here! The toppings are generous and it's a filling meal! Service is quick and I love that they are open late!

William G.

Yelp
This place was amazing! To start, the service was spot on excellent the whole time. The server was super cool and offered some good suggestions. I can't tell you the name of each hot dog, but they all looked to be amazing. My favorite was definitely the Rocky Balboa and the Deviled eggs. I will be making mine like that next time. I high recommend that you trying this place out.

Susann K.

Yelp
Such a creative menu, great service. Will definitely be back frequently. Cocktails are just as intense

William O.

Yelp
Was in the mood for some dogs and a google search turned up this place!! Highly recommended!! Place has a great set up and very clean'!! Nice bar! I sat at the bar. Bartender was very good, suggested a beer which I enjoyed a tap IPA!! Ordered two hot dogs. First one was a chorizo hotdog with chili. Very tasty, nice bite to the chorizo, would have liked the chili a bit spicier, but it was excellent! Second one was a beef hot dog with fried potatoes; peppers, onions and yellow Mustard (Nicly Newark)! Also excellent!! Dogs cooked perfectly!!! Came with a side of chips. Rolls were very fresh and I enjoyed the style of roll. If your in New Brunswick and like hot dogs it's a must go!! Will bring my dad back who also loves hotdogs. Menu very big with many different styles of hotdogs but not is it a dog place!!! Has burgers, chicken and a ton of other stuff. Wanted to try their dip but I was full. Great service by the bar staff!!

Chey R.

Yelp
Good bar vibes. Nice layout with good lighting in a tiny building. Kind of loud but hey it's a bar in the city of course it's busy and loud. The staff are cool. Beer selection was good for the size of the place. Only about 10 or so options but they are good choices. Ok now those dogs! I'd eat the New York dog over and over again. Go try it. The Hoboken dog was basically a pizza on a dog. It was good but I wouldn't get it again. Instead I'd eat more New York dog!

Claudia F.

Yelp
Perfect place for delicious hotdogs and drinks. Loved the sports themed menu names. Fries and chips were also great! Good spot for a chill happy hour. Overall: Cannot wait to go back to try more fun hotdogs and enjoy a sports game.

Gwo-Long H.

Yelp
A creative restaurant mainly offers hot dogs from all over the world. It can't go wrong with hot dogs and beer! We went there during the New Brunswick restaurant week. For $38, $4 extra because of what we ordered, we got beef nachos, an Italian dog, an Oscar dog, Cole slaw, chocolate mosaic cake, and two fountain drinks. There're so much food, we took 1/2 the nachos and the cake home. The nachos were loaded with cheese, tomatoes, guacamole, and ground beef; it was more than enough for two people. The Italian dog was topped with delicious broccoli rabe, the Oscar was tasty.

Kanea M.

Yelp
I really like this restaurant because their focus is on hot dogs and the many varieties that are inspired by cities and different destinations- nonce their name! The ambiance captivates the restaurants theme of destinations because it's decorated with the inspiration of locations and cities. The service was fast and efficient! They offer beer and we thought it was a perfect fit for hot dogs . Stop in and enjoy this delicious restaurant, which had a plenty of space but does get busy!

Amit P.

Yelp
If you love hotdogs, this is the place for you. Gourmet hotdogs with drink specials! There's even a small parking lot, if you're lucky you don't have to worry about meter parking. The bartenders are super friendly and come check on your frequently to make sure you're good. If they see your drink running low they are on it! The food was super filling and tasty. If you're not that hungry or not into hotdogs, you can get full off the deviled eggs and nachos too! The best part is it's by the train station too so if you arrived early, you can stop by here, or even after you come back from the city- it's way cheaper than NY prices and 10 times better than any NY hotdog cart! Definitely check this place out !

Natty C.

Yelp
Amazing hot dogs, they have so many varieties. I got the Chicago style. Their fries are so good! Nice casual spot. They have a full bar.

Colin M.

Yelp
I love this restaurant! Every kind of flavor you could want, and the sausages are incredibly delicious. Also love the game room.

Scott L.

Yelp
Came here for lunch because I love hot dogs and I'm a food snob so - where else would I be? Right off the bat we were given a great welcome and led to the closest table and drinks were ordered. For starters we ordered the Patatas Ridiculas, which were delicious, and were soon followed by our mains - Elotes Real Mexican, Pig Trouble in Little China, Le Magnifique and the Paul Bunyan on a brioche bun. The flavors were as original and wonderful as the names! We all left there satisfied and would definitely recommend it!

Mscee W.

Yelp
I absolutely love, love this place. The hot dogs are fresh, good blend. The variety is awesome! I need this place in Jersey City!

Hiren P.

Yelp
FIREEEEEEE! I have had veggie dogs before and have always hated them. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw they had a black bean veggie sausage. The hotdog was delicious and I loved how customizable the hotdog was. The bread was so soft and had the perfect flavor to compliment the rest of the dog. The chips were classic kettle cooked potato chips. The atmosphere was perfect for a happy hour and had plenty of seating. Service was good, we just had to wait a very long time for the check, the waiter forgot about us so had to go up and ask for it. Besides that, very friendly staff.

Liz F.

Yelp
Amazing food for good price, great for if you are feeling hot dogs or something more because of their variety of flavors and toppings.just check out their menu, or create your own dog :)

Jillian S.

Yelp
We love this place! We may be a bit bias, because we are vegetarian and they actually have a great option, but overall it's a low costs and delicious dinner spot we frequently come back to. Food - the vegetarian bean and cheese hot dog is fantastic! It's not trying to mimic the texture or flavor of a real hot dog, which I appreciate. I really come here for the toppings - you can build your own, or there is a menu full of preset options. We always start with the soft pretzel and the cheese sauce is really tasty (not your typical nacho cheese) Service - we came on a Saturday at 7pm and had to wait about an hour for a table. I've come on Fridays evenings before, and have rarely had to wait for a table. The staff is always nice. Ambiance - though in a college town, the age group is slightly older than that. It has a bar - but it's not overlay loud or crowed.

Mars A.

Yelp
The seven Leia was absolutely delicious, I got the veggie dog instead. Will def come back in for this one. I had a nice Manhattan cocktail. The server was amazing, friendly and answered all my menu questions and even made suggestions. I also had the deviled eggs, but inhaled them and forgot to take a pic . The ambiance is chilled, nice bar, games on the screens. I love this spot.

Allison P.

Yelp
This is such a cool spot! They have hotdogs inspired by different cities and countries. Definitely recommend getting a variety to try. My favorite was the Bun Mi, but honestly they're all pretty good. Service was really quick and it's a great spot to hang out with friends!

Dhruti T.

Yelp
I have never had a bad experience at Destination Dogs. The staff are very friendly and there are vegan/ vegetarian/ gluten free options for every single dog on the menu. I have been able to enjoy meals with friends with all types of dietary restrictions. The dogs are very filling. I also love their truffle fries, nachos, and the cheese curds

Norman P.

Yelp
Great dogs. Good service. Good beer. Take your clients, family, kids. Priced fine. Big selection of unusual hot dogs. Tried many. Liked most. But my guests liked them all. Go. Have fun. Tell your friends

Suchi O.

Yelp
Good drinks and tasty food with excellent service Tried the following and loved them all, esp both the drinks! --The blacksmith and the acrobat --Sunset Boulevardier --chips -- The oscar dog --bean and cheese dog First time @ this place and would like to call out our hostess Aline for good suggestions and excellent service!

Linda S.

Yelp
Very tasty place! The dogs are all based off of different destinations that draw inspiration from those locations. Very very cute! Loved this dog, it was a combination of Italian sausage meets healthy greens. Service was also super speedy. A great bar feeling restaurant. The drinks are great too!

Mickey H.

Yelp
Destination dogs is just that. A restaurant destination. The menu has so many different options and flavor profiles it would take 10 trips to taste them all. There are Korean, Mexican and Italian flavors and recipes and the 3 I tried were great. Our waiter was young and needed a little training. As we waited for multiple items far longer than we should have. I will be back for sure. And if you are in the area of Rutgers you should give it a shot too.

Sussanna G.

Yelp
Parking is tragic. But ambiance is awesome. Very chill place to hang out with friends. The game room is fun, you can check out ski ball and video games on your way to the bathroom. The drink menu is amazing. This would be a great place for happy hour . There are sooo many hot dog options, the international menu choices are amazing. I'd come back and work my way down the menu

Joseph F.

Yelp
Boy, do we love us some Destination Dogs. The concept is creative, and more importantly, the execution is spot on. These truly are gourmet dogs. Don't like beef franks? No worries, there are plenty of other options, from alligator sausage to chorizo and bratwurst. The selection is tremendous and every option is delightful. I'd recommend getting two dogs and whatever is on tap. The restaurant itself is outfitted with a bar, plenty of high tops, and a little annex with an arcade. There is even some sidewalk seating. It feels like you're in a college town...which you are. The service is quick and casual. We have had nothing but positive interactions and always look forward to going back.

Chris A.

Yelp
This place has been on my list for awhile now and finally had the chance to try it the other day while in New Brunswick. I got the Waco kid and the andouille Armstrong dog in which they were both pretty good, I prefer the Louisiana one instead of the Waco kid. The andouille was a mix of alligator and shrimp which I never had. The buns are really good. Fries and homemade chips were very good as well. Only downside is they're kinda hard to eat, you gotta eat the toppings off first before you bite in or they all just fall off and it's messy. But definitely a good hot dog spot, and pricing isn't bad either.

Alivia D.

Yelp
I've had countless awesome meals at DD but recently had the best waitress ever (Aline!!!) and felt compelled to update my review after a few years!! She was so fun & friendly & made great recommendations. My favorite is still Pig Trouble in Little China but can't wait to try Aline's pick next!!

Rina D.

Yelp
My friends and I were here for the weekend and came upon this place while looking for some late night munchies. It was really crowded and busy on a Friday night around 11pm, so we decided to sit outside to get seated right away. Service was a little slower b/c we were outside, but we were still able to get what we needed. The menu concept is very cool! Since it's 'Destination Dogs', the items are like LGA, ORD, etc, and in the "international" section, there are hot dogs like banh mi hot dogs that have the ingredients of a banh mi! Everything was reasonably priced, which we really appreciated as visitors from New York (:

Karen H.

Yelp
Had a nice Sunday lunch there and would definitely recommend the fried shrimp sandwich.

Drew N.

Yelp
If ur in the mood for a dog, skip the cold water dog on the side of the street and grab the most gourmet wieners to be had. Friendly bartenders great staff great food! Truffle fries all I gotta say

Janet C.

Yelp
Been here several times with friends and colleagues. Great drink selection and hot dog selection as well, even featuring things like alligator hot dogs (never tried this myself). The peach pit is one of my favorite drinks here. The Cleo McDowell, Pig Trouble in Little China, Oscar, Charles Dog Gaulle, Conquistadog, One Bite in Bangkok are all delicious! They also do truffle fries here and their version of everything fries called patatas ridiculas. The environment is laid back with a chill vibe. Definitely a nice place to hang out - the upstairs has larger tables to seat big groups.

Paul S.

Yelp
Great place for a casual evening. Was passing through New Brunswick and decided to check this place out for MNF. Ordered truffle fries and a few dogs to share: Rocky Bal-boar-a, Chicago Bull, and Waco Kid. I loved the simplicity of the Chicago dog, although I don't believe it had a poppy seed roll; still good nonetheless. Waco was basically a chili dog w/ Fritos, pretty good and the crunchy texture was nice. The Rocky dog was too messy to eat lol, and not my favorite pairing of cheesesteak meets hot dog, but it sounded like a good idea at first. Truffle fries were great, not overpowering at all which I appreciated. Service was fast and excellent; would definitely return when in the area.

David B.

Yelp
Fun place!! Downtown New Brunswick - the area looked a little sketchy. Tiny parking lot in back - maybe 6 cars. Great bar atmosphere inside and excellent dogs. I had the Conquistadog and Mrs had the Bun Mi Dog. Loved both.

Kevin P.

Yelp
My girlfriend found this place after we went to a Rutgers game!! If I could give them 6 stars I would ! Best hot dog I every had hands down, grilled with a nice snap . The buns are like Texas toast amazing ! A lot of crazy combinations too we got the Waco dog and the Kanas city beef dog that has pulled pork and coleslaw on it .. place is amazing ! A must try !

Jason M.

Yelp
world class. try something new every visit. recommend the Trenton Thunder(off menu)

C M.

Yelp
Pretty much an ideal stop for hot dogs and such. I had lunch here with my mom--she had a beef hot dog with bacon, pickles, and cheese sauce, I had a conquistadog which is a chorizo sausage with fried protatoes and brava sauce (a mayo-based sauce with garlic, smoked paprika, and a bit of heat). Our food was juicy, flavorful, and to top it all off--pretty to look at--if messy to eat. If you like sausage or a hot dog, this is a cut above what you'd expect from what is usually a pretty basic food. Service was also very friendly and they offer a variety of seating options, from barside, to high-top tables, to lower tables just up the stairs.

Jo M.

Yelp
Been waiting to try this place for a while and finally had the opportunity to get pick up- well I got the Nicky Newarker, a beef dog with fried potatoes,fried onions, and peppers w/ mustard - it was soooo good and I also got the Gladiator w/ Italian sausage, broccoli rabe , provolone and scallions and while eating it I didn't want it to end. Rediculous- can't wait to go back to try others- this place is a must-

Isabel J.

Yelp
The theme is gimmicky, but having regularly DJed a Sunday brunch at a similarly-themed restaurant that was quite good, I was willing to give it a try. The acoustics are awful. My colleagues and I were hosting a guest, and it was difficult to hold an audible conversation, but perhaps we were just in the wrong environment for the occasion. There is nothing inventive or moderately interesting about this menu. Even the tried and true traditional pairings feature cheaply sourced ingredients. The buns are subpar, doughy, and overwhelm the other ingredients, which, to reiterate, are nothing special. To be fair, prices are quite low, but I'd rather patronize a restaurant with good food and pay more. I'm surprised by all of the rave reviews, so perhaps take mine with a grain of salt. I'm not from New Jersey and have lived in major metropolitan areas for the majority of my life. Maybe I expected too much.

Leah S.

Yelp
Used to come here during my Rutgers days. Was in the area and craving a hot dog. While this place primarily serves hotdogs it still manages to hit every flavor pallet - boding everything from beef, chicken, lamb, pork, vegan, and even seafood hotdogs. This place always hits, definitely give it a try.