0 Followers
Tail O' The Pup
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Tail O' The Pup
8.6
Iconic Los Angeles landmark hot dog stand shaped like a giant hot dog, originally built in 1946 and reopened in 2022 after 17 years in storage. This piece of programmatic architecture serves both hot dogs and burgers in a two-story space with massive patio.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicago Pup, Sassy Cheese Burger, Jalapeño Pup
Scores:
Value: 9.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 9.5
Cultural Relevance: 9.7
What makes it special: Only surviving programmatic architecture hot dog building with 75+ year history
Who should go: Architecture enthusiasts, families, Instagram users, tourists
When to visit: Weekend evenings until 11pm for best atmosphere
What to order: Chicago Pup, Sassy Cheese burger, beer or canned wine
Insider tip: Visit the giant hot dog-shaped stand for photos before ordering
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on side streets, paid lots nearby - easier to find spots after 9pm
Dress code: Super casual - shorts, flip-flops, anything goes at this outdoor stand
Noise level: Moderate outdoor buzz - can chat easily but not intimate
Weekend wait: 15-25 min wait to order, another 10-15 for food
Weekday lunch: Walk right up, 5-10 min for food prep
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie burger and cheese fries available
Vegan options: Limited - veggie burger can be made vegan, some sides
Gluten-free options: No - buns and most items contain gluten
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for casual, fun dates - Instagram photos guaranteed and relaxed vibe takes pressure off
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter service with picnic table seating, first-come basis
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely kid-friendly - giant hot dog building fascinates kids, outdoor space to run around, simple menu
Best For
Better for: Unique LA experience, late-night munchies, Instagram content, architectural history, casual group hangs
Skip if: Want table service, need extensive dietary options, seeking quiet romantic dinner, hate eating outdoors
Tail O' The Pup
8.2
This iconic hot dog stand shaped like a giant hot dog returned to West Hollywood in 2022 after being closed since 2005. The historic landmark offers classic American fare including Chicago-style dogs, corn dogs, and chili fries in a uniquely whimsical setting with both indoor seating and colorful patios.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicago Pup, Sassy Cheese Burger, Corn Dog
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Historic hot dog-shaped building and LA landmark since 1946
Who should go: Families, tourists, and anyone seeking LA nostalgia
When to visit: Lunch or casual dinner with kids
What to order: Chicago Pup, corn dog, chili fries
Insider tip: The building is a certified LA cultural landmark
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - can be challenging in West Hollywood, especially evenings and weekends
Dress code: Very casual - shorts, t-shirts, flip flops all welcome
Noise level: Moderate - family-friendly chatter but easy conversation
Weekend wait: 10-15 min during busy periods, order-and-wait style
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, quick counter service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - veggie dogs available, plus sides like fries
Vegan options: Very limited - check if veggie dogs are vegan, some sides
Gluten-free options: Limited - no gluten-free buns, but some sides may work
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for a fun, low-pressure casual date - the novelty building makes it memorable and conversation-worthy
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter service with first-come seating on patios and indoor areas
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely kid-friendly - kids love the giant hot dog building, kid-sized portions available, outdoor patio seating
Best For
Better for: Instagram photos, LA history buffs, families wanting a unique dining experience, quick casual meals with character
Skip if: You want fine dining, need extensive dietary accommodations, prefer quiet romantic atmosphere, or want full table service