The hot dog, often considered America’s most underestimated food, has been a staple in the country’s cuisine for decades. Every July 4, Americans come together to celebrate the nation’s birthday, and the hot dog is always at the center of the festivities. In fact, on Independence Day alone, Americans consume 150 million hot dogs, enough to stretch from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles, California, more than five times.

Regional Traditions

From the Sonoran hot dog in Tucson, Arizona, to the Seattle dog in Washington, each region has its own unique twist on the classic hot dog. In Los Angeles, Pink’s Hot Dogs has been serving up hot dogs since 1939, with a menu of over 40 varieties. In Macon, Georgia, Nu-Way Weiners has been a staple for 110 years, serving up their famous spicy red dog.

In Greenville, South Carolina, Lefty’s West End Tavern offers a rotating Tour of Ballpark Hot Dogs, with a new MLB ballpark-inspired frank each month. And in Seattle, the Seattle dog, topped with cream cheese and caramelized onions, has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

American Classic

The hot dog has survived every attempt to outgrow it, and it remains one of the most affordable and accessible foods in the country. Whether you’re at a backyard barbecue or a street food stand, the hot dog is always a crowd-pleaser. As the nation marks its 250th birthday, it’s worth recognizing the humble hot dog as a true American classic.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.