Mustard's Last Stand

Hot dog stand · Evanston

Mustard's Last Stand

Hot dog stand · Evanston

2

1613 Central St #3, Evanston, IL 60201

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Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
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Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null
Mustard's Last Stand by null

Highlights

No-frills, family-run fixture serving up Chicago-style dogs, burgers & sausage since 1969.  

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1613 Central St #3, Evanston, IL 60201 Get directions

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1613 Central St #3, Evanston, IL 60201 Get directions

+1 847 864 2700

$ · Menu

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dine in
takeout
delivery
payment credit card
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outdoor seating

Last updated

Jul 8, 2025

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@eater

"A monument to tailgate culture for more than half a century, this tiny hot dog stand just steps from Ryan Field remains a game day destination for teeming hordes of Wildcat adherents hungry for victory and encased meats. The scene is far less chaotic when the team is on the road, transforming Mustard’s Last Stand into a charming escape for a burger on the patio." - Naomi Waxman, Samantha Nelson

Where to Eat and Drink in Evanston
View Postcard for Mustard's Last Stand
@eater

"Located steps away from Ryan Field, Mustard’s Last Stand has been a tailgating destination for more than 50 years. Expect a sea of purple-clad Wildcat fans lining up for hot dogs, bratwurst, and Polish sausage on game days, though it's worth stopping by any time the weather is nice to enjoy a burger and ice cream on the patio." - Samantha Nelson

Restaurants Where Northwestern Students Should Eat in Evanston
View Postcard for Mustard's Last Stand

Arash JENAB

Google
We wanted to try some hotdogs at local spots during our trip, and this place was recommended by some locals. It's an old establishment with a cool, vintage vibe that adds to its charm. We tried their jumbo hotdogs and double cheeseburgers. Both were delicious and had that classic, satisfying taste. The hotdogs were perfectly cooked, and the double cheeseburgers were juicy and flavorful. Their hot sauce are pretty Hot, so be careful if you are sensitive. Fries portions are large enough for two. If you're looking for a local place with a nostalgic atmosphere, this is the spot. Definitely worth a visit!

Vsevolod Suschevskiy

Google
Best Chicago dog, that you can get in the safety and comfort of Evanston. Sitting is limited, and cash is preferred at the register, but that is an amazing locally owned hot dog place with stories and cultural value for the neighborhood. They got combos and polish wieners.

Song River

Google
We tried 3 different types of Chicago food and this was the first one. It arrived in a timely manner via door dash. Great polish and bratwurst dogs! Flavorful mustard, and add ons! Generous portions on everything and the bay seasoning on the fries super yum!

Partha Jyoti Das

Google
The sandwich was really amazing. The sausage remind me of deep dish pizza sausage in peaquads. All right amount of spices. Thanks to the employees who confirmed with the owner over phone whether it doesn’t contain beef at all. The pictures around the restaurant walls are very iconic.

Jared M

Google
I got a Chicago dog and fries where okay nothing special l. The cheese sauce for the fries was just grease and hard. Over priced for gas station quality.

Krabsicle

Google
Food was good, a bit overpriced. Ordered two Bobcat combos, burger patty was juicy and fries were seasoned well. Service was fine, no complaints. Looks like a nice food joint.

Martin Kaye

Google
Another successful visit to Mustards!!! Great food!! Great service. The atmosphere is amazing, typical Chicago hot dog stand. Just be prepared to stand and improvise where you consume your food if it’s crowded. Outdoor seating helps when it’s warm enough. Never disappoints!!

Kelsey Wetherald

Google
If you’re looking for a good genuine hotdog/burger joint, this is the place. I’m not from here and I gotta say it was probably the best place we have visited so far! The fries were cooked to perfection, the cheese cup is a must. My favorite item was the polish sausage it was excellent!

Anthony M.

Yelp
This is a good old fashioned hot dog joint in Evanston by the football and basketball stadiums. Its been there forever and it looks that way. I have had burgers and hot dogs there and they've been great! Its not really an all frills kind of place. I do like their fries. The parking and seating can be a little challenging, but thats part of the charm of places like this. They run a bunch of lunch deals so I would recommend it for lunch! Check it out!

Phil S.

Yelp
"Mustards Last Stand" cool hot dog stand in Evanston adjacent to the soon to be demolished Ryan Field. I have been going past this location for decades & finally decided to check it out. Kind of a cool old place that's been around since 1969. Boy did I take my time getting here. The restaurant is really dated & has a ton of old photos of different sports figures of by gone era (kind of like me lol ). It was kind of cool to finally stop in and share in the moment. I ordered a hot dog but not just any hot dog a Vienna Beef dog w/everything except relish. You can't go wron w/a Vienna Beef hot dog in my eyes. It was good hot dog but nothing that jumped out at me

Josh R.

Yelp
I think this place is more nostalgic to people than it is great food. I was craving a cheeseburger so came here for the first time. I got the cheeseburger special with small fry and medium drink The price with tax was $13.00 something. The burger was thin and frozen as were the fries. I think there is better value for money elsewhere along with more comfortable seating. Also I just hope this place was cleaner than it looked.

Andrew D.

Yelp
This is the best Chicago dog and fry spot in Evanston and is a game day staple. Amazing burgers as well. Don't skip the milkshakes either. Such a great staff and always moves quickly. Amazing spot for some Chicago and Midwest fresh fast food!

John B.

Yelp
I have wanted to try this place out for a while. This is exactly what you think of when you hear "Mustards last stand". This institution has been these for 54 years and continues to pull in people from all ages and backgrounds. The ambiance is very... no frills, get your food, and move on. The candy and small toys machine take you back to a day where they were more commonplace. The signs are backlit, black letter, paper in cellophane, and poster board. No digital signage here. The food is your basic diner food. I order the #4 special which was a double cheeseburger, fries, and a medium drink for $14.99. It was delivered fast, hot, and in a nice basic paper bag. I noticed they have corn dogs as well, so I am going to need to go back for that. The burger was exactly what you would expect for a grill burger. Not a griddles burger, the grates on the grill seared the pattern to give you that char you would expect. The fries are shoestring, and the oil they are cooked in brought forth a flavor that you can tell included the other foods cooked in the fryer. This is not the place to go if you are gluten free. Overall, I liked it. I will be going back.

Joani O.

Yelp
An Evanston staple, this hole in the wall is right next to Dyche Stadium and a great go to for Chicago-style hotdogs and the best skinny fries! They have burgers and traditional fast food but I love their hot dogs. They only have a few counter seats and two outdoor tables for when the weather is nice.

Dani M.

Yelp
Went there tonight and the son is very rude... I won't be back... I order something that I wasn't aware of the size and I could have gotten something bigger..

Nancy K.

Yelp
This is a typical, very small divey hotdog and hamburger place right next to the the stadium in Evanston. Great if you're looking for quick fast food before a game or afterwards, there are a couple outside tables and a very small space inside. They do have some specials, which include fries and a drink.

James S.

Yelp
Great hot dogs! Fantastic french fries!! Great everything!!! This place is amazing!!!!

Kimberly P.

Yelp
I'm a fan of the little hole-in-wall joint but I was so disappointed when I went for lunch today. The menu is more limited than the seating and the place gives off the distinct appearance of having not experienced a good cleaning in several years. I understand the reason for the DIY plastic breezeway they installed, but it makes getting in and out a challenge even when you're not trying to pass someone. I had a hot dog and fries and requested cheese for the fries. They asked if I wanted cheddar or nacho cheese. I thought cheddar would be a nice change. Wrong. I watched them take a small white sauce container and stick it in the microwave and then drop it in my bag. When I went to eat it, what I had was a greasy orange lump I could barely get on a fry and it tasted disgusting. The hot dog and fries themselves were average; not great, not awful. My dad loved to go to Mustard's. His father was an NU grad and they spent years and years attending the football games together at the stadium next door. My first home with my parents was across the street. I miss my dad, but I'm so glad he isn't here to experience Mustard's now.

Daniel M.

Yelp
I have driven by this place for years and have wanted to try it each time. I finally did. Walking in, it is exactly what I expected. I went with my kid and ordered a hot dog special (hot dog, fries, drink), double cheeseburger, and a milkshake. $28... everything was mediocre. I'll happily stick to other Skokie and Evanston places like Poochie's or Edzo's for similarly priced, much better food.

Andy F.

Yelp
by far the worst place to eat , I literally paid $30 for two polish hotdog that tasted horrible and for the money i paid I really feel like i was robbed . the owner is definitely greedy for those outrageous prices , like cmon times are hard enough already and people can't afford it !! messed up place

Drake M.

Yelp
Today's #NationalHotDogMonth place is about as old as I am. It was established in 1968-69. Mustard's Last Stand is an Evanston landmark. It's a stone throw from Ryan Field, the home of the Northwestern Wildcats. This is an old school place with a lot of history. This is one tasty Chicago Style dog. It can still be a classic AND authentic without a natural casing. A lot of "aficionados" will argue this point. Throughout the region you will always find variations of the holy grail of ingredients such as, not using the neon green relish. It's doesn't make it a bad dog. The dog was super tasty with just the right amount of toppings. Nothing over powers another ingredient but amplify the other for one good bite. Hot Dog

Jennifer M.

Yelp
Been going hear for year but the last couple of times my order has been wrong and I have to keep repeating my order several times.

Keven M.

Yelp
I thought the hotdog was really tasty. It's definitely a unique experience in a really cool setting next to Ryan Field. Total blast from the past and the food was done almost instantly. Service was just ok. I'm glad I got to try it. Would recommend if you're at Northwestern.

Eric J.

Yelp
Amazing service very fast delicious food nice workers. They never mess up a order it's perfect

Anthony P.

Yelp
Been going here for years and you can't go wrong. Food is awesome especially the fries and I've never gotten anything other than Chicago dogs but hey they are the bomb!

Matt C.

Yelp
I lived in Evanston in the 90s and went here all the time. I was back in town today and was pleased to see that the cheeseburgers are as good as ever.

Malavika C.

Yelp
We love Mustard's! An Evanston classic and a must after watching a game at Ryan Field. While they're known for the hotdogs (do me a favor and get it with everything on it), the hamburger and fries were surprisingly good! The servers are impressively quick and it's a well run operation.

Jay K.

Yelp
I went for the car show and stayed for the food. It is Mustards 50th anniversary and they celebrated by having a car show. So I hopped in my hot rod and away I went. They were giving away free hotdogs but I didn't know that until I went inside and bought one, then a few minutes later the free hotdog cart opened up outside. So I still ended up with my usual two hotdogs. I'm told that the burgers are great here but I'm a hotdog guy and I can say they are as good as any good hotdog joint I've ever been to and I'm a huge Portillios fan. Fresh steamed bun with all the Chicago dog fixings. It was excellent! Normally when I'm in Evanston I go to Bill's for burgers and dogs but now I may have to rethink that.

Sabina K.

Yelp
Satisfy your old school cravings with a cheeseburger and fries, chat about the weather with the owner, and check out vintage sports pictures inside. The outside is Instagram friendly with predominant colors of yellow and red. Standard fare of burgers, sausages, Hot Dogs and fries is available here. This place is constantly busy and has been open for takeout throughout the Covid season. They have couple of tables outside available if you can't wait to take a bite of your burger. We enjoyed coming here during snow storm, contemplating opening a Glühwein stand right outside as a start of Christmas market. Maybe next year?

Norman M.

Yelp
Best cheeseburger on the planet. Put mustard, onions, pickles, tomatoes and hot peppers on it and you have a masterpiece of flavors. The fries and tamales are super!

George B.

Yelp
I ordered a grillEd Polish they did not Grill it. I was very disappointed when they put it in the deep fryer deep fryer then onto the bun that's not a grilled, Polish.

Russell M.

Yelp
Me "How's it going? Can I place an order for pick up?" Dude: "What do you want?" Me: "One Vienna Chicago Style Dog." Dude: "What do you want on it?" Me: "Everything." Dude: "Yeah but what do you want on it?" Me: "Everything that normally goes on a Chicago style. You know pickle, tomato, peppers, relish, mustard..." Dude: "Yeah but what do you want on it?" Me: "What would you normally put on a Chicago dog?" Rude Dude: "So you don't know what you want on it? Why don't you figure out what you actually want on it and call me back?" Rude Dude: Hangs up. Me: Never calling back.

Skylar S.

Yelp
I only give 4 stars because it's a bit overpriced. The service is fast, and the food is delicious. This is a staple in Evanston and for Northwestern game days. I got the hot dog with onions and it was just shy of $5, which is hard as a student, but I will say the flavor profile was worth it.

Gerry G.

Yelp
Nice sign on the door requiring masks for all who enter this joint with no room for social distancing. But staff looked the other way and allowed at least three groups of people crammed in wearing no masks. They were oddly out of malt, and the shake without it wasn't worth the calories. Ordered a burger on my most recent visit which was remarkably good compared to their average hot dogs (no natural casing, and several condiments are not traditional Chicago dog style.) Nice charred flavor because they have what seems to be a charcoal grill. Their Italian beef is house made if I recall right and is another option I get there when in the mood.

Barbara A.

Yelp
Moved to California in 1986 worked at Evanston Hospital. Use to take the shuttle. The food ever misses great lunches Happy to see still in business

Dave S.

Yelp
Food is good, in the unlikely case that you get what you ordered. They like to keep the line moving, so staff don't pay much attention to what you requested. No social distance, so opt to go outside. Don't call, they are even less likely to have your carryout right.

Jasmine S.

Yelp
I worked at the near by hospital for more than a decade. This was one of my lunch spots. The owner was always nice and welcoming, so was the staff. Had to stop in while I'm the area. Consistency is key. The grilled chicken sandwich was as delicious as all the times before. Totally recommend.

Lillybeth F.

Yelp
This is a mixed review great fries good onion rings Hotdog not sure you can call this an authentic Vienna hot dog . Bun was stale just over nit that great and a little overpriced Place is dirty inside and out was not that busy when I was there no effort on cleaning I would skip this better hot dogs elsewhere

Jimmy S.

Yelp
Great hotdogs for after a Northwestern game. Very small but your typical Chicago hotdog spot. Still makes a good dog and mozzarella sticks

Mark O.

Yelp
Food was delicious, service less than desirable. First for the food: bratwurst, Chicago dog and polish sausage Chicago style were fresh, juicy and delicious with nice, cradling poppy seeded buns. Toppings were fresh and loved the crisp dill pickle on top. Fries were crisp also, lightly salted and they held up even when they got cool. The person taking orders was a little cantankerous: kind of reminded me of Belushi and Aykroyd - No Coke, Pepsi! I had to repeat my order as did several others. Food was coming out to the window pretty regularly and in the order it was ordered. When I was next, the call came for 2 dogs and 2 fries. When I said is that mine, but I ordered 3. They answer was no, not yours. Then after a 5 minute wait and 3 people behind me got their food, the call came again for the same order. I ask again and get the same no. Finally after another order comes out, I ask again. He asks me if I called in the order. I said: no, you took my order. Finally after some discussion behind the scenes with the cook, the bag was delivered to my hands and it has the 3 dogs and fries in it. Now not as hot but thankfully tasty. Would I do it all again? Hmmm, maybe I was just the unlucky one for the day.

Lisa D.

Yelp
Hidden gem in the area. I heard about it from my mother's friend who went to Northwestern ! It's a cute little shop next to thr stadium and near the bustling central street. Menu is simple and perfect for game days or those days where you just want some ball park food. They have different hot dogs including polish and Italian. Burgers sandwiches and more are also available. Tons of toppings are there and they do not shy away when topping off your dog. We tried a polish dog with all the toppings and even got extra peppers! Also tried the Italian sausage that came with a pick lle on top yumm! Also we ordered a pizza puff and cheese fries. The small fries were actually quite large. The food was cooked up quickly and super cheap and affordable which makes it even better! Can't wait to go back.

Nina H.

Yelp
Mustard's Last stand is a typical hot dog stand neighboring Northwestern's Ryan Field. I was told Mustard's can get busy during the NU (Northwestern University) football season with their line exiting past the door. I've passed down Central avenue on occasion and finally made a visit earlier this week. Between my husband and I, we shared a corn dog, a polish sausage, cheddar fries, and a soft drink. The corn dogs and polish sausages are mediocre. Their sausages are meaty but lack in juiciness and flavor. What brought this rating down from an okay to a flop were the cheese fries. The cheese fries are a huge disappointment. Their fries do not hold up well. After a 10 minute car ride, our fries were soggy, cold, and flaccid. The cheese sauce they use on their fries is Merkt's cheddar. I dislike Merkt's and wished they mentioned that on their menu. Had I known this piece of info, I would've never ordered their cheese fries. If you've never had Merkt's melted cheese sauce, your not missing out. Merkt's cheese sauce is gross. It's bright orange in color and has a goopy texture; almost chalky. It smells like feet and has a tangy/spoiled taste. It's absolutely indigestible. If your heading to an NU football game, it's a convenient cheap eat. Be forewarned that you'll be standing in a long line on game day. As a whole, I'd pass on this establishment.

Fusik T.

Yelp
GREAT!!!! The service is really good and the hotdogs are great! The actual place is really cozy, it's like a little cabin and there's a sweet little patio outside. It has 3 tables outside and six to seven tables inside. ITS GREAT! Highly recommended!

Tim A.

Yelp
My first time at Mustard's. Should have had the Italian beef : ( The chicken sandwich was ok, nothing special. Same with the fries. Probably better options around Northwestern for you.

Rob H.

Yelp
Beef sandwich was pretty good. The side of cheese, for the cheese fries, was a congealed cup of sludge that was barely room temperature. Uneatable. Wouldn't order again.

Tianna T.

Yelp
We come here every year for their great and delicious Chicago style hotdogs. Yummy French fries and friendly service. We will be back !

Andrew D.

Yelp
3.5 *'s rounding up for nostalgia. I've been coming here since I was a kid and they're still going strong. I got a Chicago dog with everything, and my kid got a char-burger, and it was all as good as I remembered, though probably not a lot different than the 500 other similar places in Chicagoland.

Robert S.

Yelp
Was checking out and forgot to add money to my card. So y card declined. The bigger Hispanic old man grabbed my food, and reached his hand in my bag and dumped all of the fries out. Then I added money and gave him my card again and he treated me horrible. I felt bad so I said let me tip you. He stood up in my face and said "how are you going to tip me if you are broke as f***" I will never be coming here again and this man needs to be fired for the way he acts.

Bernardo S.

Yelp
After wanting to try this place for quite some time I finally found the time and I'm glad I did Double dog w/ fries ****** great dog just a little sloppy the hot dog will fall apart but great flavor ( do yourself a favor and order the combo save some dough ) Polish with fries ********* the polish is the star here superb flavor get it with everything and you will not be disappointed Great service , great polish a gem in Evanston .

W John K.

Yelp
A Chicagoland Tradition, "Mustard's Last Stand" is a typical hot dog stand neighboring Northwestern's Ryan Field. I've passed down Central Avenue many times as a short cut to get to Loyola's Campus in Roger's Park. We finally made a visit today this Friday. Did not disappoint, the owner was there in charge with a staff of two. Friendly and accommodating. Most of us ordered the #1, which is a Hot Dog, Fries and a Medium Drink. My oldest had a taste for an Italian Beef with Sweet Peppers and Fries. The Verdict...Definitely stopping by again, when in need of good fast eats, especially going to and from Loyola's Campus. Enjoy & Cheers!

Bruce H.

Yelp
Good lunch time food. Tasty burgers and dogs...crispy fries. Simple and straightforward...love it!

Nancy C.

Yelp
Love this place! This place is great for a quick snack or meal. They cook everything when you order it so you know it's fresh and piping hot. The only downside? It's a small place and limited counter seating, but heck, it's a small sacrifice for some delicious hot dogs and burgers!

Rob M.

Yelp
Holy schnickey's is this place awesome. Old school burger and dog stand. Line was out the door when we got there but it moved quickly and efficiently. Fantastic place with a great location right by the stadium. When in Evanston, you can be I'll be back.

John C.

Yelp
My First Foodie Playground 45+ Years Ago. Still one of the best cheeseburgers in America, especially on Game Day. If you don't understand this place then you've lost your grasp on the simple absolute pleasures of Life. I've been to 4 other Mustard's across America and each one has a picture of Our Mustard's on their wall. #GoNUFootball

Janice M.

Yelp
We were in Evanston and yelp showed a few choices nearest to us, which is 2 miles away. Otherwise, we wouldn't make this drive to this establishment. My daughter loves this place because she can have both Superman ice cream and Cotton Candy ice cream, 2 of her favorite flavors! Opted for the hotdog combo ($6+) vs buying just the hotdog ($3+). I felt it was expensive since my daughter only eats just the hot dog and seasame seed bun. We were fortunate to grab a table outside; indoor seating just too cramped for my taste even though there's plenty of seating inside. Plus the sports memorbilia on the walls just added to my claustophobia. Small parking lot in busy traffic.

Fay M.

Yelp
This great food services with kindness. The service is great. The Italian Beef, Italian sausage, hotdogs, fries, and Milk shakes are just lovely and out of this world good. Did I- mention the service and how kind the poeple are who work there. I move to Philly and miss this place so much. I will be moving back to Evanston soon and eating right here again. You guys are the best in America. You made an immigrant who live here first, love America and feel welcome. Thank you.

Mark S.

Yelp
Awesome Chicago Style Hotdog and Polish sausage. Friendly staff that quickly prepares your order. When we were there, line was out the door but the line moved quickly and only waited about 10 min. Lots of history on the walls.

Lauren M.

Yelp
Where do I start? I used to walk to this place from my cousin's when we were kids. I have fond memories, very fond memories. Sometimes you don't know if a place holds up after 20 years of tasty, tasty memories. Let me tell you, Mustard's holds up! I love this place, and the food is just as good! It is simple, wholesome stuff without any flair. Which is what you want in a neighborhood hot dog stop! (That I rode an hour worth of trains to get to) (totally worth the ride!) Also, cheese fries, enough said!