Story perspectives
Writer launches 2026 WV-style Hot Dog Road Trip, rates NC spots
5/25/2026
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Story summary
- Writer launched 2026 Hot Dog Road Trip in Wilmington, North Carolina, on Memorial Day.
- The series excludes chains and mandates West Virginia-style toppings—beanless chili, creamy coleslaw, mustard and raw white onions.
- Scores were 3/5 for Mess Hall’s dog at 136 Wrightsville Ave, 3.9/5 for Pender’s Cafe (cash-only, 1977), 4.2/5 for J. Michael’s Philly Deli and 3.8/5 for Katy’s Grill, for West Virginia-style dogs with buns, beef, chili, slaw and onions.
