The Best Hot Dog in Chicago

A Steamed Vienna Pure Beef Hot Dog Lovingly Placed on a Steamed Rosen's Poppy Seed Bun Dressed with Your Own Combination of Mouth-Watering Toppings

About Smilin' Clyde's Hot Dogs

Smilin' Clyde's Hot Dogs was founded in 2011. Owner Clyde Anhalt always had a dream of bringing back the quintessential “Chicago” feeling of ordering and enjoying a steamed bun and hot dog topped in the uniquely Chicago “dragged thru the garden” style from a retro style hot dog cart like he remembered from “back in the day”. 
He put his plan into action by purchasing a hot dog cart built in the 60’s and internally retrofitted it to conform to the current regulation’s while maintaining the nostalgic look of the hot dog carts from the “good old days”.

In order to gain a following, Clyde understood that he had to work hard and serve a hot dog that is “Second to None." Soon he had secured spots at local Farmers Markets and started to build his customer base by offering good food and always putting the customer first (even if they wanted ketchup on their hot dogs). Before he knew it, Smilin’ Clyde’s hot dogs became a staple at local Farmers Markets and events throughout Chicago’s south side.

Next, with the help of his wife, Sharon, and his daughter, Sarah, Smilin' Clyde's started to cater private parties and weddings. As the seasons past and demand continued to grow Clyde knew that he had something special. With this in mind, Clyde expanded Smilin' Clyde's Hot Dogs in 2018 and now has a total of 4 carts in order to serve the masses and become the premier provider / caterer for parties, events and weddings!

In 2020, Smilin' Clyde's signed on with Chicago Park District Concessions and began selling hot dogs on the corner of Columbus and Monroe in Grant Park. In 2021, a second Chicago location was added in Jackson Park, 6401 S. Stony Island.​

If you have used us before for one of your parties or tried one of our hot dogs, we thank you very much. If you haven’t used us to cater a party or have never had one of our hot dogs, we would appreciate an opportunity to serve you. 

Book Smilin' Clyde's for your event today! 

QUALITY FIRST

All our vegetables and toppings are fresh cut the morning of an event!

SERVICE

All food is prepared with care and consistency by the Weenie Master himself, Smilin' Clyde Anhalt and served by our expertly trained staff!

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

Everyone has eaten a hot dog - just not a Smilin' Clyde's Dog! Grabbing your Dog from the Wagon, like the old days, makes for a one-of-a-kind, nostalgic hot dog eating exeperience!

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