Top Dog Frankfurter is our family's go-to. I've tried the hot link once and it was HOT (--and I've got a pretty good tolerance for spicy)! So be warned. The hot dogs are great, nothing spectacular, but Top Dog gets a 4 Star from me because they are always so nice and provide great service. read more

Last one, so glad they exist. While going back to Atl I had 50 various sausages in my luggage. Tops, hot links, calabrese and then stood outside to eat my Top dog (w/spicy mustard, onion and sauerkraut). Been going to this place since high school. Hope the Berkeley store will continue to open. The guy behind the counter was terse bordering on rude. Perfect for Top Dog! Loved it! Glad to know the Center street store is expected to reopen in October! read more

When I find myself in the East Bay running errands I always have to stop at one of my nostalgic haunts and Top Dog is one of them. Hard to find a great hot dog specialty restaurant that isn't from a food cart. As they say, Top Dog is an institution and as the slogan goes,The Best Hot Dogs in the Universe. This location is only a block away from the Shattuck Bart Station on the west side and across from BAMPFA and along the row of great college food with Bongo Burgers and Ben and Jerry's, this location is easily accessible and slightly bigger than the original location on Dwight. At reasonable prices with dogs starting at $4, the proprietor, Dick, has done a great job staying true to providing affordable meals to the student community.and nostalgic alums. That said, their sausages from Hot Links to Bird Dog to the classic Top Dog are exactly the same as they were 30-35 years ago! When you return to Berkeley, get a Top Dog and re-engage. read more

See all

For what it is and dormir to be a signature establishment in Berkeley it does the job very well. I don't know much of the history and the origins but I was told to get these hotdogs before, during my time as a student, and after. While I was a student I did go several times but it wasn't like it was before. Now that the food scene is huge in downtown and the south side of campus, it feels more on the basic side but this is the place for hot dogs with flavour and local flare. I usually have the classic and at times the veggie and the times I've gone I've never had a complaint. The customer service is on point and staff members are more than glad to whip you a frankfurter. The condiments are fresh and add an extra layer to the Berkeley experience either as a late snack or visiting. read more

See all

The service is to the point, the prices are practical, the condiments are simple and the politics are libertarian. If good hotdogs and a dose of real are what you're looking for, frequent TopDog. Everyone should be there. My fav is the Calabrese. read more

The restaurant is on the smaller side and the menu is very simple and easy. The seating is minimal with a couple of smaller circular tables and a bench table at the window overlooking the street. Ordering is very quick and simple and the prices were very affordable, I believe 1 hotdog for $4.50 We ordered the garlic frankfurter and the hot link. They took only a couple minutes to heat up and they did not disappoint, very juicy and full of flavor! Also, the buns were much better than a standard hotdog bun that always seems to split in the middle. These were more like a soft baguette cut to length and sliced in the middle, so much better than a standard hotdog bun in my opinion. The self service condiment bar also had a nice selection of mustards as well as the standard onions, relish, ketchup, and sauerkraut. This place puts all those hotdog street vendors to shame. So much more delicious at half the cost. Whenever I am in the mood for hotdogs now, I know where to go: Top Dog! read more

See all

After a visit to Top Dog, it's no wonder why this joint has remained a Cal institution for decades. Upon entry, I was greeted by a friendly man working both the register and grill. After placing my order (a Kielbasa dog with a fountain drink), it would only be another five minutes until I'm united with my delicious dog. Just by looking at the photos, you can TELL this dog is juicy. The bun was also reminiscent of a toasted baguette, but it was still delightfully soft and slightly crunchy. I also like how their topping bar is self-serve and has lots of variety (i.e., way more selection than just your typical ketchup mustard relish combination as they had three different types of mustards PLUS kraut)! The Kielbasa might also be the best I've had, and I'll definitely have to come back to try their other sausage offerings. The whole experience was amazing, but I do have to dock off a star since the employee cooked and handed out the dogs with his bare hands. It was a bit disarming to see since we're not quite out of the pandemic just yet... read more

Top Dog - One juicy dog!! - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

See all

Parking - heinous as usual. Be prepared to walk. Food - bringing back the memories. Ate at both this spot and the one on Durant back in the day. Old school dog made the way they should be. Kiel and Cal just the way I remember it. Garlic frank is also delicious. Self serve condiments - mustard, kraut, and ketchup available as always. This place is an institution for the locals and kids that go to school nearby. No stinking veggie Wienies for this reviewer. Rejoice in all the pork and beef goodness my friends. read more

Top Dog - Menu on center street - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

The dogs in the North Bay been around since the eighties. A must stop when in Vallejo!

It's simple and yet all that you need to enjoy a good hot dog, sausage, or hot link. It doesn't take very long to get your order. The hot link was served on a simple toasted bread for a bun and was nicely spiced and not too hot. read more

Top Dog - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

Delicious hot dogs. It's a Berkeley staple so how can you not want to stop by and get a nicely grilled dog. Sometimes all you need is a good hot dog, especially a grilled one! read more

Top Dog is a Berkeley staple and probably one of the oldest and most well known places at Cal. They always hit the spot whether it's a full meal, a snack, or a drunchie. I've tried virtually every single sausage type and none have disappointed. Every sausage is very juicy and cooked very well. The outside is a little crispy and the inside is moist. In addition, part of the reason Top Dog shines is because of the bread. The bread they use is crispy and warm on the outside but not hard at all, creating a balanced hot dog. Appreciate that every order is freshly made and always hot. They have many condiment options - sauerkraut, onions, relish, mustard, ketchup, etc as well if you're into that. Do not sleep on trying this you will regret it!!!! read more

Top Dog - a view of the counter area - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

See all

It's a good dog but I'm not sure it's my top dog. Top Dog's reputation precedes itself and is definitely a local fixture in Berkeley. However, now that there is a well-developed local food scene all over Shattuck, University, Center Street, and Oxford Avenue, I'm wondering if Top Dog is more nostalgia than anything? I stopped by for a regular ol' Top Dog frankfurter and apple juice... strange combination I know. For a $4 hot dog and a $2.75 cup of juice, it feels a little expensive for a late night college snack. The dog itself is good, with the char from the grill a nice touch, but not something I'd go out of my way to stick out. What was more fascinating to me is the wall of libertarian flyers... nothing says you're in Berkeley better than a wall of slogans! read more

See all

This dog was delicious! We enjoyed your standard OG hot dogs. They were fresh, had that crisp outside from the BBQ and was served fresh. We also tried their potato salad and it was straight fire. The staff was super nice and friendly. The only recommendation I have is that there is a little more organization. The gentleman taking orders is giving out orders so you have to repeat your order several times (and he missed an item). They're busy but the line moves quick! The parking is easy and is metered out front. read more

The guy behind the counter has SUPERB customer service skills and definitely deserves all the tips you can give him. The dog? Delicious. The service? Amazing. The condiments? Perfection. GO HERE FOR YOUR HOT DOG FIX! Or if you're happening to be missing Costco polish dogs :) read more

Top Dog - Garlic Frank - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

I haven't explored North/West Berkeley in forever. Found a "new to me" Top Dog that's been there since '09, I think. Same menu as the Southside Top Dog, just more spacious. Same great Smoked Chicken Apple and hot dog buns. read more

Top Dog - Inside - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

This is a tiny place in Berkeley, on a street lined with eateries. It seems impossible to be able to survive, because rent in Berkeley is not cheap. But somehow, there it is. There's not much of a decor (the whole place is emptied of chairs and tables), but I can imagine it being not much more before the pandemic. You pick the sausage, they grill it, and you can choose toppings on top. The sausages are delicious, definitely worth stopping by for -- but alas, when we last went, they forgot our toppings. That might be something you wanna check when you got your order, but we just went it and got the heck out, well, because covid, so we missed out. Did I mention that the sausages were delicious and well grilled? They also grilled the bread, which gave the bread a nice crunch. I would highly recommend if you happen to be in town and want an affordable meal that is easy to eat on-the-go. read more

My date was super excited to show me one of his favorite places to eat in Berkeley. I had the "calabrese" or Italian and it was delicious! The skin was snappy and the bun was toasted. I also added a bit of the local Mendocino mustard for an added kick. I wasn't too hungry, so I only ate one hot dog. I would imagine that most people would need to order two hot dogs to keep their tummies full. read more

Now that high school is back in session, it's time to find restaurants that are quick and not as crowded. Bryan and I noticed the Doggie Bag Special (sausage, chips, refillable soda) for $5.95 and decided to stop in. It has been awhile since either of us have been to a Top Dog location. We ordered our meals; I chose the chicken apple sausage and Bryan got the mango habanero and then waited until they called out our orders. The sausages were plump and tasty. The only downside of my order was that the root beer I got was extremely sweet and seemed a bit flat for soda. A solid 3.5 stars but I'd come back and get a different sausage to try and definitely a different drink option. read more

Top Dog - Doggie Bag Special: your choice of sausage, chips, soda ($5.95, 9/12/18) - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

The problem with yelp sometimes is folks benchmark places based on experiences elsewhere. I have been going to this icon for 30 years. Began in my nights, mornings really, at Wurster Hall. The best place for a Chicago Dog is Chicago The best place for a coney dog is Coney Island The only place for a Top Dog is the genuine article, Berkeley Ca. Let me explain the difference. A top dog is grilled on the flat top, butterfly optional. The dogs are all locally sourced. The Top Dog, a take on a NY street dog, the Brat, the Boc, the calebrese. The bun: The Top bun is made just for them. Larger than standard, sesame seeds, grilled. You don't like it? Shut up. This is stand up service. Place your own toppings. I will keep going. If you do not like it, fine. Shhhhh We will endure. read more

Top Dog - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

They're not as good as they used to be, maybe the Durant location is better? Look at the burnt hot dog they provided me! I've never really had a bad experience with Top Dog until now. I did contact the manager about this and he handled the issue so hopefully the quality control improves. read more

A great selection of sausages and mustards! Not just a hot dog but different kind of sausages. I've tried them all and they are all great.

Not my favorite Top Dog location, but it's still top 2! They open not as late which is probably my only complaint, but the accessibility is a lot better. This location has more food for seating and better for bigger groups. But same concept. You come in, you order your dog, grab a drink and some chips maybe, pay in cash and then enjoy some perfection. I only wish that there were more Top Dog locations, but I mean you can't go wrong ordering anything here. My classic go to is the Polish Kielbasa on a toasted sesame bun. They don't ever write any orders down. Speak and you shall receive. Don't be deceived by the exterior or interior because fro my experience, I know that hole in the walls produce the best food. read more

Wonderful place to get a hot dog... Best hot dog I have ever had. The guy behind the counter is awesome.

The guy that was behind the counter today Wednesday 4/6/22 at 5:30pm is super rude. We were just reading the signage posted at the gate that says "to go orders on the side" - didn't touch anything or engage him or try to order - he says, "We're OBVIOUSLY closed." Bye, Top Dog. read more

Top Dog has been in the bay area forever. It's a classic. It's great to have excellent quality wurst (I lived in Germany for 10 years and I do know my wurst), plus crispy buns, onions and sauerkraut to go on top! Of course they also have the usual ketchup, mustard and relish. Try the bockwurst!! it's my favorite - with sauerkraut, onions and ketchup. Skip the mustard. (Even though they do have better quality European style mustard, I don't like that on my wurst.). Absolutely delicious! This makes a very tasty and healthy meal. Cheap and quick as well! It's no wonder that they're still here after probably 40 years in the business! By the way, you probably only need one Top Dog. No need to buy more than one, you will be stuffed beyond belief if you do. Unless you're built like The Rock. read more

I can't believe I've never been here until now my good friend told me about this place while we were walking by, and I happened to have an appetite so we stopped by. I ordered the first thing on the menu, the all beef top dog frankfurter. Cooked when you order it, their dogs come out hot and fresh. I love that they grill the bun too. The hot dogs are quality. While waiting for my order, they have slot of cool political art to look at. I really like the hot sauerkraut they offer in addition to their other toppings. I LOVE sauerkraut so I was excited to see a bunch of it, and that you can help yourself! Plenty of seating inside, or take it to go! I'll definitely be back when I'm in the area. read more

See all

Whenever I'm in Berkeley I grab one or two for the road. Nicely toasted sesame bun variety options of dogs and self serve condiments. Try the Garlic its divine, Cal is bomb, and if you can't have pork there's smoked chicken apple or veggie and other delicious options to choose from...Nice little option of drinks, I like their lemonade with cane sugar. They have indoor as well as outdoor seating available! Granted It's no Seattle Dog nor is it as cheap as my fave Costco hot dog but it's a Berkeley staple and it's delicious!!! read more

Best street hotdogs in town! The service was friendly and quick. Hits the spot every time.

True Berkeley staple! I was born and raised in Berkeley too and shy away from all the "Berkeley Stuff" but this is truly one of our gems. Multiple locations, locally sourced, inexpensive and taxes included in the prices. The bests: hot link, chicken apple, lemon chicken, kielbasa and of course the classic top dog. Top Dog gets their 4th star alone because of their buns. I hate soggy buns and that's never the case at Top Dog with their thick, toasted sesame seed buns. Since I love yall, I'll give you a little secret. The Telegraph location sells cold dogs and buns. Perfect for a BBQ or you trying to replicate the magic at home. read more

Top Dog has always had a special place in my heart as a former Cal grad for the late night munchies after a long evening studying at the library or before a football game. The original locay on Durant was the one I used to hit up. But after graduation and coming back to campus for football games, I would hit up this location on Center if I took BART to the games. I recently made a visit on my way to Tilden Park and Top Dog still does not disappoint! The thing that stands out the most about this place is the grilling process and the crunchy exterior of their yummy dogs! There's a snap when you bite into them and the yummy juices touch your tongue. The yummy chewy rolls that wrap around the dogs makes it a hearty meal. I love all the fixings and I love piling on the onions, sauerkraut, relish and ketchup. My go to are the Top Dog and the Smoked Chicken Apple for sure that are packed full of flavor. The Hot Link is also very popular. The prices are also very reasonable. Can't wait to go back next time I'm back on campus! read more

See all

Inspiration from #yelpeastbay! We locals know this as "the dog!" "Yo'man, let's roll to The Dog." Back to it's libertarian original roots from the Durant Street location, Top Dog is always open during holidays! A family tradition Christmas morning! The well seasoned flat top grill is decades old. All dogs served on the seeded Toscana roll (Hayward, CA) are fabulous. My favorite dogs are ordered in the local lingo: "Cal" (Calibrase), "Top" (Top Dog), and "Hot" (Hot Link). Usage: "I'll have a Top and a Cal." Russian Hot Mustard and Kraut (always scoop from the bottom) and never ketchup is the local grindz. Miso soup is always in the menu too. Never sure why. read more

This is the BEST top dog location. I have tried the other slots, but this spot is consistently good. The bread for the dogs are the best, fresh tasting and perfectly toasted. The sausages are grilled perfectly and are so tasty. read more

Top Dog - Bockwurst - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

See all

I WOULD GIVE ZERO STARS IF I COULD!! Horrible customer service, it's a mess in there. My friend ordered before everyone else in the store and got his dog last, waited 20 minutes for one hot dog and the workers were extremely rude. They were laughing the whole time at the fact that we were still waiting for our food. I am appalled at who is able to get a job these days!! If you go here and see a young brunette man and blonde woman, take it from who has experienced their service firsthand, LEAVE IMMEDIATELY!!!! read more

Went to this location after trying the other one and the service here was much better. The woman helping was quick easy and very friendly. Food was cooked pretty quick and we were able to get free water before heading out. It does get busy, so expect to stand outside to wait. There are trees, so it shouldn't get too hot. read more

Classic Berkeley joint. I haven't been to Berkeley in years, meaning I have had a top dog in years and nothing about top dog has changed. I ordered a garlic and wife ordered a mango jalenpeno. Both were amazing, and that bun, perfect combination. I have thought about getting their frozen shipped orders in the past, and have yet to pull the trigger. read more

Top Dog - Garlic Frank - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

Hot dogs were never my go-to food craving, but Top Dog definitely changed that. The location is a little small and the food took a good while to come out, as there was only one person working even on the weekend. Regardless, I think it is worth the wait just to try it at least once. The worker gave us free drinks to compensate for the long wait time. We got the Bratwurst sausage, which was really flavorful and juicy. I liked how the bread was a baguette, which gave it a good crunch. Def give this place a try! read more

Top Dog - Bratwurst Sausage - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

See all

There is a young man with thick glasses working here who coerces you into leaving a tip. He says, "pick a number between 1 and 3" when spinning the tablet around. Tips are discretionary, dude. Not sure what I'm tipping for when I pick up my dog and add toppings myself, etc. Folks like him discourage customers from returning. You're losing a $8 avg sale for $1-2 of tips. I came pre-pandemic when it was cash only and the experience was so much better, so bumping up to three stars. read more

Top dog lives up to it's name. With so many other places to eat on this street I was lucky enough to choose Top Dog. The guys behind the counter deserved a good tip and got it for helping me decide on the hot link. I later hooked it up with my choice of hot sauerkraut, spicy mustard and jalapeños. The place is small but the flavor is big. I recommend this if you want to grab a bite on the go. read more

Top Dog - Grab n go. The Hot Link does not disappoint - Fast Food Near Me - Berkeley, California

Berkeley has many options for starving students, and Top Dog is one of them. If you find yourself in the Downtown business district (oh no, capitalism!), don't care about trendy but just want good food at a low price, get over to Top Dog at your earliest convenience. I had raved to my family about eating at Top Dog when I tried the Telegraph restaurant. On a recent trip to the Adventure Playground, my elementary-school daughter and I went to the Downtown restaurant. Her, regular Top Dog; me, Italian. Her review: "Mmmmmm, this is yummy!" My review: just as good as the Telegraph location. Taste buds shout "Questo è eccellente! VI amo, Top Dog!" Skin is just the right touch between tender and tough. French roll, not a hot dog bun, so it's large and sturdy enough for all the condiments you want to put on it (I chose onions & relish). It's a short walk to the wide lawn at the official entrance to the University of California, if you want to make this a picnic. Total bill: just under $10. So why is this location five star and the others four star? There are places to sit and eat here. You don't feel squished in at this location, but you do at the other. So now you can read the libertarian propaganda on the wall as you eat, heh heh. If you don't care, you just want good food, then both will please you. UPDATE: My hunny does not like hot dogs. She grudgingly came here for another one of our visits. She had the chicken & cooked apple. Even she loved it, so that says a lot about Top Dog. I still like LA's Pink's Hot Dogs the best. But they're 400 miles to the south, and Top Dog is a great Bay Area substitute. read more