Chicago Red Hots is a beloved fast-food chain specializing in authentic Chicago-style hot dogs, sandwiches, and classic American comfort food. Known for their fresh ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and dedication to traditional recipes, Chicago Red Hots has become a must-visit destination for food lovers craving a true taste of the Windy City.
The menu offers a diverse selection, catering to various tastes and preferences. Whether you are looking for a classic Chicago-style hot dog, a hearty burger, or a vegetarian option, Chicago Red Hots has something delicious waiting for you.
This guide dives deep into the menu offerings, highlighting key dishes, sides, beverages, and desserts to help you navigate your next visit.
Signature Hot Dogs
The cornerstone of Chicago Red Hots’ menu is their signature line of Chicago-style hot dogs. These are not your average hot dogs — each one is made with premium all-beef frankfurters, nestled in steamed poppy seed buns and topped with an array of fresh, traditional ingredients like yellow mustard, chopped onions, bright green relish, tomato slices, pickle spears, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt.
| Hot Dog | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Classic Chicago Dog | All-beef hot dog with mustard, onions, relish, tomato, pickle, sport peppers, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun. | $5.99 |
| Double Dog Deluxe | Two classic Chicago dogs stacked with all traditional toppings and a side of fries. | $9.99 |
| Spicy Red Hot | Chicago dog with jalapenos, spicy relish, pepper jack cheese, and chipotle mayo. | $6.49 |
| Veggie Dog | Vegetarian soy-based dog topped with all classic Chicago dog fixings. | $6.29 |
“A true Chicago experience on a bun — the Red Hot classic is unbeatable!” – Local Food Critic
Burgers & Sandwiches
Beyond the iconic hot dogs, Chicago Red Hots offers a robust selection of burgers and sandwiches that emphasize quality and flavor. Their burgers are made with 100% Angus beef, cooked to order, and served on freshly baked buns.
Sandwiches range from hearty Italian beef to crispy chicken options, ensuring there is something for every palate.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Red Hot Cheeseburger | Juicy Angus beef patty with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and house sauce. | $7.99 |
| Italian Beef Sandwich | Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef topped with giardiniera and served on a toasted Italian roll. | $8.49 |
| Crispy Chicken Sandwich | Crispy fried chicken breast with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo on a brioche bun. | $7.49 |
| Grilled Portobello Sandwich | Marinated Portobello mushroom cap with Swiss cheese, spinach, roasted peppers, and basil aioli. | $7.29 |
Sides & Appetizers
To complement their main dishes, Chicago Red Hots offers a variety of classic sides and appetizers. From crispy fries to loaded cheese curds, the sides are crafted to enhance your meal experience.
Many sides can be customized with toppings and dipping sauces.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classic French Fries | Crispy golden fries seasoned with sea salt. | $2.99 |
| Cheese Curds | Battered and fried Wisconsin cheese curds served with ranch dressing. | $5.49 |
| Onion Rings | Thick-cut onion rings battered and fried to perfection. | $4.99 |
| Loaded Fries | French fries topped with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, jalapenos, and sour cream. | $6.49 |
| Side Salad | Fresh mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and choice of dressing. | $3.99 |
“The loaded fries are the perfect indulgence — cheesy, crispy, and bursting with flavor.” – Regular Customer
Beverages
The beverage menu at Chicago Red Hots includes a variety of soft drinks, specialty sodas, and refreshing iced teas. They also offer classic Chicago-style beverages to complete your meal experience.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Fountain Soda | Choice of Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, or Root Beer. | $1.99 |
| Craft Lemonade | Freshly squeezed lemonade with optional strawberry or raspberry flavors. | $2.99 |
| Chicago Style Iced Tea | Black iced tea sweetened with a hint of lemon. | $2.49 |
| Italian Soda | Carbonated water with flavored syrups such as cherry, vanilla, or peach. | $3.49 |
| Bottled Water | Pure spring water. | $1.49 |
Desserts
Finish your meal with a sweet treat from Chicago Red Hots’ dessert selection. The desserts are crafted to provide the perfect balance of sweetness without overpowering the meal.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Fudge Brownie | Warm, rich brownie served with vanilla ice cream and chocolate drizzle. | $4.99 |
| Classic Cheesecake | Creamy New York-style cheesecake with a graham cracker crust. | $5.49 |
| Vanilla Soft Serve Cone | Creamy vanilla soft serve in a classic cone. | $2.99 |
| Apple Pie | Traditional warm apple pie slice with cinnamon and nutmeg. | $4.49 |
Specialty Combos & Family Packs
For those looking to enjoy a full meal or feed a group, Chicago Red Hots offers specialty combos and family packs. These options combine popular menu items at a value price, perfect for sharing or a satisfying solo meal.
| Combo/Pack | Contents | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Combo | Choice of hot dog or burger, fries, and a fountain drink. | $9.99 |
| Family Hot Dog Pack (4) | Four classic Chicago dogs with four sides of fries and four fountain drinks. | $29.99 |
| Party Platter | Assorted hot dogs, burgers, cheese curds, onion rings, and dipping sauces, serves 6-8. | $59.99 |
Dietary Options and Customizations
Chicago Red Hots understands the importance of catering to dietary needs and preferences. The menu includes vegetarian options such as the Veggie Dog and Grilled Portobello Sandwich.
Gluten-free buns are available upon request, and many items can be customized to reduce sodium or spice levels.
Additionally, customers can request no onions, extra toppings, or substitute fries for a side salad. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to accommodate special requests to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
“I appreciate how flexible they are with dietary needs — you never feel limited here.” – Health-Conscious Patron
Ordering Tips & Popular Picks
When visiting Chicago Red Hots, it’s recommended to try the Classic Chicago Dog first — it’s the foundation of the restaurant’s reputation. Pair it with the loaded fries and an Italian soda for a well-rounded meal.
If you’re new to Chicago-style food, the Italian Beef Sandwich is a must-try, offering a savory, tender meat experience that embodies Chicago’s culinary traditions. For dessert, the Chocolate Fudge Brownie is highly praised for its rich flavor and satisfying texture.
Many customers enjoy ordering combos to get the best value and experience a variety of menu items without the hassle of individual orders. During weekends and holidays, the family packs and party platters are particularly popular for gatherings and celebrations.
Conclusion
Chicago Red Hots provides an authentic taste of Chicago’s iconic cuisine with a menu that balances tradition and variety. With signature hot dogs, hearty sandwiches, crispy sides, refreshing beverages, and indulgent desserts, there is something for everyone.
The attention to quality ingredients and customer customization options make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Exploring the Chicago Red Hots menu is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful journey into one of America’s most vibrant food cultures.
