Sonoran Hot Dogs

A cultural phenomenon in borderlandia

Published on March 17, 2025 - Updated on March 19, 2025

The Sonoran Hot Dog is one of the most unique and popular street foods in Southern Arizona, and Northern Mexico (Sonora). It has its roots in Hermosillo, Sonora and spread throughout the borderlandia area of Arizona.

What's a Sonoran Hot Dog?

Most start with a bacon wrapped dog in a steamed bun, topped with diced onions & tomatoes, beans, and a little mayo and jalapeno salsa.

My favorite comes from El Sinaloense in Tucson, which has a grilled bun instead of steamed, and in addition to the toppings listed above, it also has grilled onions.

El Guero Canelo in Tucson is likely the most famous north of the border, and they won an American Classic James Beard Award for their dogs. Also worth mentioning is Ruiz Hotdogs in Tucson.

All three places mentioned are worth a visit, and which will be your favorite comes down to personal preference (go to El Sinaloense first 😉).