Where to get the Best New York Hot Dog on the Upper West Side

New York Roots

The hot dog has its roots in German sausage-making traditions. German immigrants brought frankfurters and wieners to New York City in the mid-1800s, selling them from pushcarts on the Bowery as early as the 1860s. The hot dog’s popularity in NYC took off in 1871 when German immigrant Charles Feltman opened a hot dog stand in Coney Island. Feltman is credited with inventing the modern hot dog by serving frankfurters on milk rolls. This established Coney Island as the epicenter of hot dog culture in New York. In 1916, Nathan Handwerker, a former employee of Feltman’s, opened his own competing hot dog stand in Coney Island. Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs became incredibly popular and remains an NYC institution. Hot dog carts became ubiquitous on NYC streets, with vendors selling what affectionately became known as “dirty water dogs” – franks kept warm in hot water. This method allowed vendors to operate with minimal equipment and became an integral part of NYC’s street food scene.

Gray’s Papaya

Gray’s Papaya has played a significant role in New York City’s hot dog history and has become a staple of New York City’s culinary scene.  Nicholas Gray, a former Wall Street stockbroker from Chile, founded Gray’s Papaya in 1973.  After becoming disillusioned with his career, Gray was inspired by the atmosphere and concept of Papaya King on East 86th Street. Gray initially opened a franchised location of Papaya King, but when his contract ended in 1975, he launched his brand at the corner of Broadway and W. 72nd Street. He made a splash by offering hot dogs for just 50 cents, significantly undercutting the standard price of 75 cents at the time. Gray’s Papaya became famous for its unusual pairing of hot dogs with tropical fruit drinks, particularly papaya juice.  Looking for a special lunchtime favorite, try their Recession Special, two franks and a medium tropical drink for $7.50 (including tax).

Secret To Their Success

Gray Papaya Franks are known for their distinctive taste and high quality. They use natural casing franks, which are grilled on a flat top. This cooking method creates a distinctive brown crust that provides a unique feel when bitten into, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of the hot dog. The toppings at Gray’s Papaya are intentionally sparse, allowing the quality of the hot dog to shine. Customers can choose from classic options like sauerkraut, onions, ketchup, and mustard. This simplicity is part of the charm, focusing on the hot dog’s flavor rather than overwhelming it with excessive condiments. One of the main reasons to come to Gray’s is to bathe in 1970’s nostalgia. Combine this with the quality of their franks, along with affordable prices, a convenient location and a quirky and inviting atmosphere it’s no surprise they have become an institution among New Yorkers from all walks of life. Next time you are walking along W. 72nd St. be sure to try a Gray’s Papaya frank, it will be an unforgettable experience. https://grayspapaya.nyc/ 212.799.0243