When you think of Nathan’s Famous, I bet the first thing that comes to your mind is Joey Chestnut stuffing his face with hot dogs every Fourth of July on Coney Island. But this chain is so much more than that. From burgers to thick shakes, flavorful chicken sandwiches to wings, there’s a reason why Nathan’s has been named “The Flavor of New York.” To keep you from getting overwhelmed, here’s a guide to best menu items at Nathan’s Famous. It starts off with, unsurprisingly, a hot dog, but keep reading for some hidden gems.
1. Chili Cheese Dog
I had to start the list off with a hot dog option. Nathan’s Famous chili cheese dog is the perfect ratio of warm, melty cheese, and flavorful chili piled on top of its iconic hot dogs that are all beef and made with Nathan’s ‘secret spice.’ Don’t forget about the potato bun that perfectly holds this delectable combo and makes for the perfect bite every time.
2. Manhattan Burger
I bet you didn’t realize that Nathan’s also features beautiful, hand-crafted burgers on its menu, so I am here to give you two of the best options. Starting off we have the Manhattan Burger that is stacked with two eight-ounce angus beef patties, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, ketchup, mayo, and American cheese. All sandwiched between artisan burger buns, each ingredient brings a classic feel to this revolutionary burger that makes it almost as iconic as the city that it’s named after.
3. Hell’s Kitchen Burger
My mouth is just watering looking at this burger, so I knew it had to have a place on the list. If you’re someone who loves both savory and spicy you cannot pass this up. Don’t let the name scare you away — this burger is piled high with two eight-ounce angus beef patties, jalapeño peppers, jalapeño bacon, and American cheese. I can’t forget about Ken’s Jalapeño Ranch that is drizzled all over..
4. Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Literally anything Buffalo-flavored, I am obsessed with, so there was no way this item wasn’t making its way onto the list. This Buffalo chicken sandwich packs a punch with two four-ounce hand-breaded chicken breasts drizzled with blue cheese and stacked on top of a pillowy potato bun.
5. Hot Wings
Nathan’s Hot Wings are a must try, even if you’re not a wing lover. You can order the wings by the pound and choose from an array of BBQ, Buffalo, or hot honey sauces. Each bite is guaranteed to be juicy, tender, and coated in sauce that will make you want to take a pound of wings to go (I’d order two).
6. Chopped Cheese Hero
A hero is basically a large sandwich that is similar to an Italian sub, but can be stuffed with different meat and cheese options. Nathan’s has a couple of options, but this one is probably the best. The Chopped Cheese Hero comes packed with a half pound of black angus beef, American cheese, burger sauce, lettuce, and tomato. This mountain of flavor comes piled high on a french-style baguette and with each bite will transport you to New York.
7. Bacon Jalapeño Fries
Nathan’s menu also features specialty fries, and who doesn’t love fries? The Bacon Jalapeño Fries look like they’re to die for, so make sure you add them to your must-try list for your next visit. Their original crinkle cut french fries come topped with bacon, jalapeño ranch, and creamy cheese.
8. Chili Cheese Fries
Surprise! More fries! But trust me, you cannot pass up on this classic option. Just like the beloved chili cheese hot dog, Nathan’s chili cheese fries never fall short of being a fan favorite. The iconic crinkle cut French fries are topped with the iconic chili and drizzled with warm, melted cheese.
9. Oreo Shake
The oreo shake features a creamy combination of real vanilla, cane sugar, milk from the Wisconsin Creamery, and, of course, Oreo cookies.
10. Strawberry Shake
Just like the Oreo, this premium dessert is made with real vanilla, cane sugar, and Wisconsin Creamery Milk. The swirl of strawberry syrup around the glass also adds a hint of sweetness that is too good to resist.