Founded in 2011, Dat Dog is a popular New Orleans franchise that specializes in gourmet hot dogs and sausages, and where a fun-loving staff embraces Hawaiian-shirts, laid-back culture, music and individuality.

The decor at Dat Dog puts a smile on your face with its bright colors.
(photo by Katie Sikora)

The menu features sausages made from crawfish, alligator and duck, as well as chicken, burgers and traditional beef wieners. The more than 30 toppings available including unconventional options like blackberry sauce, guacamole, Sriracha mayo and crawfish etouffee. Customers can create their own “jazz improvisation in a bun.” The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan sausages, in addition to a hot dog wrapped in a lettuce leaf instead of a traditional bun for people avoiding carbohydrates.

Dat Dog is opening its first corporate store outside of New Orleans in Lafayette, Louisiana this summer. Dat Dog has also signed franchise agreements for outlets in Baton Rouge and Houston, keeping the initial expansion close to home as the chain actively looks to expand nationwide.

Community outreach is part of Dat Dog’s approach. Working with Son Of A Saint, Zeus’ Place and The New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic & Assistance Foundation, Dat Dog gives back to communities that have been fundamental to its growth and success.

“We are thrilled to announce that we’ve received this year’s Restaurant Neighbor Award from the Louisiana Restaurant Association for our partnership with Son of a Saint,” said Bill DiPaola, president and COO of Dat Dog. “We can’t thank Son of a Saint enough for allowing us to be involved with the work they do and the lives they change. And, of course, a huge thank you to the Louisiana Restaurant Association for presenting us with this award. We are honored.”

For information, visit datdog.com.