Hot dog culture is an interesting thing. In Chicago, of course, the dog of choice is a Vienna Beef (or a Polish) topped with pickles, peppers, tomatoes, relish, mustard, and celery salt, served in a poppyseed bun. In New England, the preferred dog is a "red hot" (so called for the color, which is fire-engine red, rather than the spice, which is pretty mild) in a classic square bun. I'm partial to the Chicago style myself, and also like a good bratwurst topped with 'kraut and spicy mustard. But I do love those square buns: they grill so nicely, and hold the butter well. (Though I like mine stuffed with lobster salad rather than red hots).

Here Peter poses in front of a poster showing exactly how to present the perfect Chicago dog--more condiments than sausage! [Hide the verbosity]