Lewiston, Maine, Hot Dog Stand Named One of the Best in Nation

There's just something about those spring and summer vibes that makes people think hamburgers and hot dogs. They're both an American staple, and yet when it comes to hot dogs, it can be a challenge to find a place that serves them just right.

According to LoveFood, there's 50 restaurants across the country that do it better than just about anyone else, and one of those places happens to be in Lewiston, Maine.

There's only a handful of mom-and-pop joints left in Lewiston that have been serving up good food to locals for years. None of them have been doing it quite as long as Simones' Hot Dog Stand, a family-owned staple of Lewiston's downtown district that has become more than just an iconic Maine restaurant. It's become known worldwide.

In recent years, accolades have been the name of the game for Simones'. In 2015, Thrillist named Simones' one of the best of hot dog stands in the world. In 2018, People Magazine featured Simones' as the best hot dog stand in all of Maine. Now, LoveFood has identified Simones' as one of the best places to grab a hot dog in the entire country.

Before those accolades, Simones' was a must-stop for people passing through Lewiston. For decades, it was a place politicians met when working in the city. In the '60s and '70s, rock bands who played in Lewiston almost always made a trip to Simones'. The hot dog stand was founded in 1908, and still maintains a loyal following today.

Simones' serves up their classic steamed red snapper with the fixings that just can't be beat. But if hot dogs aren't your game, Simones' boasts an extensive menu of other offerings, including several breakfast options.

While hot dog stands makes you think of a roadside cart, Simones' is a legit brick-and-mortar restaurant. Simones' Hot Dog Stand is located at 19 Chestnut Street in Lewiston. If you're looking for the perfect time to visit, Wednesday is hot dog day at Simones', and it's the best time to load up your plate with their classic steamers.