People flock to this legendary River Grove stand for good reason. The hot dogs are dressed with only mustard, onions, relish, sport peppers and topped with fries for what’s known as a “Depression Dog.” Just don’t ask for ketchup unless you want to be shunned.

A Chicago tradition dating back more than 50 years, Jimmy’s keeps things simple with its "Depression Dogs." Hot dogs topped with fries and absolutely no ketchup; it’s a true Chicago experience, right down to its location. If you’re not up for hot dogs, they make a solid Polish sausage as well.

There’s no better place to be than Jim’s after a long night out on the town. Open 24/7, the iconic stand serves Vienna Beef hot dogs topped with onions and loads of sport peppers. And while the dogs are great, the Polish sausages are second to none and what put Jim’s on the map so don’t hesitate to try both.

A literal shack on the south side, Fat Johnnie’s has garnered many accolades and a loyal following for its Chicago-style David Berg hot dogs. The menu offers everything from regular red hots to cheese and chili dogs, but it’s the "Mighty Dog" that really ups the ante. A hot dog and a tamale together on a bun with chili, cheese and a plethora of traditional fixings, including cucumbers. There’s nothing else quite like it.

There’s not much that hasn’t been said about this Chicago institution except there are only a few months left for diners to stand in line for sausages. There’s your standard Vienna Chicago dog as well as other usual suspects like a brat and a veggie dog, but Hot Doug’s really showcases its meats with specials. The foie gras and sauternes duck sausage is a longtime favorite while other specials include all types of game from kangaroo to rattlesnake. So start making plans because you have until Oct. 4 to get a last taste of Chicago history.

If you’re headed to Wrigley Field for a Cubs game, make sure to drop by Byron’s on the way and fill up. The Vienna beef franks are packed high with a garden’s worth of toppings and the jumbo dog is enough to satiate most eaters, but the hungriest will want to opt for the "Dogzilla," a half-pound hot dog to soak up all the alcohol that’s likely to follow.

A Lakeview favorite, Murphy’s Vienna red hots are available boiled or charred with the usual array of Chicago-style condiments. It goes the extra mile though with the addition of lettuce and cucumber slices, which give it another layer of textures and flavors that set it apart from the competition. And if one dog’s not enough, try the red hot footlong for bigger appetites.

It’s not the traditional Chicago-style dog but it’s every bit as good. The char dogs might be the best in town and you can even get them loaded with cheddar. It’s a delicious, greasy mess that’s suited for all hours of the day.