I was diagnosed with celiac two years ago and have been craving a good hotdog since. the gluten free bread was extraordinary and my mom even said it tastes very similar to the glutinous one. thank you so much I could cry read more

Still the best hot dog in Tampa! Good service too. Thank you! A tad expensive for hot dogs, but so is pretty much every place these days. read more

Absolutely fantastic stop after a three hour drive! Clean. Air-conditioned (thankfully because it's 100°). Friendly staff. I got Mel's special which had mustard, relish, peppers, and pickles on it. Everything seemed authentic to Chicago style hot dogs. Fries. The fries. Just... this is the way fries should be. Eff that coating that other restaurants put on their fries to make it more crunchy - these fries are the real deal. I also got cookies, because why not. The staff said that they cooked them daily and they tasted like cookies, so . 5.0/5.0 - as long as I don't get diarrhea in 3 hours, this'll be a regular stop during Tampa concerts going forward. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Mel's Special Hot Dog Basket - fantastic! - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Went for lunch. We, the 4 of us had a Kids snack dog, Mel's special dog, 2 Chicago dog baskets, 2 cokes and 1 water. Food was served hot and cooked to order. Very good. Now the bad news, total bill was $45.54. read more

The very best hot dog on the planet! Ive been bringing my friends and family here since the first day and alot of Tampa people can say that too! Theyre doing a customer appreciation day May 25th so come in for cool free goodies and of course a Mighty Mel Hot Dog! read more

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Okay I heard this place was an institution so after an event decided to drop in and give it a try. The picture below shows what I ordered with a description. The service is fast. You go up order and in less than 5 minutes my order was out. They do not play. The parking lot is small so when it is crowded well you know. The staff is friendly but no nonsense. Love it. The seating area is like a diner with the type of tables, chairs, and booths. The chili on the chili dog was basic not anything to brag about. The onion rings were good but regular. If you're craving dogs this is the spot. But in the end they get 4.2 stars. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Chili Dog, Large Onion Rings, and a Mighty Mel with a Modelo. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Good food and quick service. Love coming to Mel's and getting extra cheese on everything! Can't go wrong with a chili cheese dog and cheese fries. Their burgers are pretty tasty too. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Cheese Fries and Chili Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Green Lacy Amy sphere is nostalgic very clean. Staff is very friendly and the prices are awesome. read more

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The Hotdog's are meh at best. Very basic extremely overpriced Hotdog. They are all beast, which is a good thing, but I've had better hotdog dogs that were all beef that were cheaper what was upsetting was that they were trying to charge me $1.50 to add cheese on a hotdog totaling $9.00! Talk about price gouging the chili was OK not much flavor. So that's why I'm giving Mel's two star. Service was good. The atmosphere and decor gives me an old school Rout 66 vibe. I think why they're still in businesses because of nostalgia. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Basic Hotdog mustard relish, ketchup, $7 - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

BLUF, 3.5 stars. First time visit. Service was good. Didn't take too long for my 5 hot dogs to go. We got chicago, chili cheese and Reuben. I had the chicago dog and chili cheese. Thought the Chicago was pretty good. Chili cheese was just alright. My wife, a Chicago native, thought the Chicago and Reuben were good. While I would gladly eat the food here again, I do have trouble justifying the cost compared to a leading chain (Portillos). It was $6.50ish for each and an upcharge on the chili to add cheese so almost $8 since a combo doesn't exist by default. The dog itself felt on the smaller side. If not getting two regulars, I would probably need to opt for the larger, mighty dog option. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Another great visit to Mel's. Got the coleslaw dog and onion rings. Hotdog is always great coleslaw was pretty good was nice on the dog. Onion rings are always some of the best I ever had read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

I loved the overall vibe of Mel's. It was my first time there but I think they changed their menu based on the wall. I got the Mel's my way and kept it pretty simple with ketchup, mustard, grilled onions and relish. It was a pretty decent hotdog, I would probably say the highlight of the hotdog was the bun. The service was also pretty average and I was able to get in and out. read more

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Mel's Hot Dogs 4136 E Busch Blvd, Tampa, FL 33617 @melshotdogs Make sure to come by whenever you are in the Tampa area to enjoy some delicious hot dogs served by the best staff around. Enjoy the best Chicago-style dogs in the Tampa Bay Area . Hot Dogs, Burgers, Onion Rings, Milshakess, you name it, they got it. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Fire Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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We've drove past this place numerous times and decided to try it. The inside is a fun diner theme, clean tables with a large menu. Good flavors and the buns were super fluffy. Only downside is the pricing is crazy for hotdogs! We got the "large" hot dog - one Chicago style and other Mel's way. This was just a regular sized hotdog for $7-8 each and fries were an additional cost. Overall tasted just like Portillos which you can get a cheaper price at...but glad we tried it. read more

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Another tasty lunch at Mel's Hot Dogs! The service is always outstanding which fits right in with the overall atmosphere. They have a variety of hot dogs and sausages, toppings, and hot sandwich options such as burgers and chicken sandwiches- don't skip the donuts for dessert! read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Slaw Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Mel's is such a cool experience, you can't go wrong with a good hot dog! I'm personally not the biggest fan of poppy seed buns, but overall, I definitely recommend stopping by for the vibes and the experience. It's a classic spot that's worth a visit! read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Awesome Hotdogs and sausages!! Will definitely be back! The service was decent and the ambiance was pretty good!

Have passed by it near do many times, decided today was the day I was gonna try Mel's. There is an extensive menu with just about every hot dog sandwich under the sun, including vegan choices. Not in the mood for a dog? There is a wide variety of other hot sandwiches to choose from burgers to Reubens. They also offer beer by the bottle and ice cream The staff is super friendly and patient, which is a good thing as you read through the menu selections. I was actually surprised by how clean and neat inside of restaurant was, with naugahyde, booths and steel chrome tables. There was a member of staff in the dining room straightening chairs, wiping tables and refilling condiments the entire time I was there. Hot dogs start at $5, the chili dog was $6.50, plus an additional $6 to make it a combo-large fry and drink. While it wasn't the best dog I've ever eaten, it definitely was mighty tasty. Be careful because every sandwich comes on a poppy seed bun and an order of large fries is enough for two people...at least. One more thing, as I was leaving, the lady that took my order thanked me for stopping by name! Oh yeah, definitely a plus! read more

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Nothing hits quite like a hot dog. Mel's does it right. Are these a little pricey for hot dogs? Maybe. But I wasn't mad. They were filling and delicious. Came out of the kitchen quickly. The spot has a nice old-school feel and plenty of tables, which they needed since it was so busy. If I'm over that way again, I would definitely stop by and try some more things from their menu. 8/10. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Chicago Style Hot Dog, Ruben Dog, Chili Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Very disappointed with our visit to Mel's Diner in Tampa. The hot dogs are extremely overpriced for what you get. The service was also very slow, and when we got home with our takeout order one of the hot dogs was completely missing. If you're charging those kinds of prices, the order should at least be correct. Unfortunately, this was not a great experience. First and last time for us. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Went back to Mel's a second time and wow -- game changer! Turns out my taste buds were off the first visit, because this time the hotdog tasted just like Chicago. Fries? Perfectly crispy. Staff? Super friendly (shoutout to Ashley for remembering my name!). Definitely a 5-star spot. Can't wait to come back and try the Italian beef next! read more

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First time back after Mel's getting a new owner. They've added ice cream and beer to their menu. So many dog choices! I got the Mel's special: sauerkraut, relish, and a pickle. It was delish. Mel's has always been a cute diner. Fun photos and decor plus there's the hotdog mobile outside. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Mel's Special - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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I'm giving Mel's two stars because the vibe was cool but honestly, the hot dogs were extremely overpriced and the casing is very tough to get through absolutely out-of-pocket to charge $20 for that. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Chili cheese, dog and a Mel's special - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

What fun this place is. Bright, clean, and so cute inside, we got takeout while visiting Tampa on the recommendation of a local. My husband got Italian sausage with peppers and onions and loved it. He also had a side of chili. It made him sweat, but wasn't terribly spicy. He just sweats when having anything remotely seasoned! I had a fried chicken sandwich on a steamed Kaiser roll with coleslaw. There wasn't a thing about my meal that I didn't love! Finally, we shared fries. I told my husband that I felt like I was a child at the lunch counter in Woolworth's again. The fries were so delicious and were the ultimate comfort food. The employees were so helpful and patient, and the service was quick and our food was served with a smile. We will definitely be back! read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - My husband's meal. I was too busy eating to take a picture of my own! - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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With new owners, we wanted to try out Mel's because it's always been a favorite since our kiddies were young! The atmosphere is the same. I was especially happy to see that and to still be able to look at all the fun pics on the walls. Parking is...well, you get used to the small lot, but the parking next door is perfect and there's never been a problem - unless you get a newbie that tries to turn around! ‍ The service at the counter was wonderful - better than ever! We saw 3 different women that went out of their way to say Welcome! My husband got the Mel's Special dog that is like the Chicago dog with sauerkraut and it was absolutely delicious! I got the brat with sauerkraut and mustard. I have to say that the brat has always been my favorite, but it was put on a roll that they use for the Italian beef and it swallowed the brat. I was disappointed, but the brat flavor was there, so I just ripped off all the excess bread. Next time I'll make sure to ask for it on a dog bun! Overall, our experience was great and although we were too full to order ice cream (6 flavors!) I will have to stop by to just grab dessert soon! read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Outstanding dogs and Italian beef, although the portions ought to be a bit more for the price. Also, the payment and order system they have desperately needs to join the 21st century. It really is inexcusable to take 2-5 minutes to take one (1) person's order. read more

Came in 6:45 6/16/25.. I talked this place up so much to my friend and dragged him here. The gentleman working the counter had the WORST customer service ever. Not one hello, not a "how are you", just a dead look in the face and a "what do you want".. I responded with, "I'm good, how are you?!" I'm from the Chicagoland area so I really appreciate this business, but I do not appreciate rude customer service. I don't want to spend any more money here or recommend this establishment any longer. After a long day, I was craving a great meal from Mel's. But the only thing that can make an amazing meal taste bad, is rude customer service. read more

Best hot dog I've had since going gluten free. The bun was terrific- which is a rarity in the GF universe. Service was great, restaurant was clean. Two thumbs up. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Chicago Dog basket on a GLUTEN FREE (!!) bun. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

it was pretty good but I payed way too much for what I got. I got the chili dog, onion rings, and a drink for 17 dollar. Depending who you are that might not be too much, but for me it was kinda expensive. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs was so good. I prefer them over Portillos. I got a Beef: Au Jus and Giardiniera (hot) on side and added Mozzarella. They did not skimp on how much beef they give you! Husband and I shared a Chi dog too. I like that the chop their tomatoes. The fries were crispy and you get a lot with the large order. Highly recommend stopping in. read more

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I've been a Mel's veteran for over 25 years. It's a staple in our household, and it's truly one of the few things I miss about living in Tampa. I go to Mel's every time I visit family here, without fail. I've lost count of how many corn dogs I've had there. I'm a corn dog connoisseur and Mel's was my favorite. For the first time in 25 years, I left disappointed. They changed the frank, and it's nowhere near as good. 25-30% smaller and tasteless. I could tell before they even made it, just by looking at the uncooked franks from the ordering line. Visibly smaller, and so bland. The first bite confirmed it. Hopefully it's just the corn dog that's changed and the rest of the menu remains the same. Same great customer service, great ambiance. Easy parking. Love me some Mel's and want to keep that fire going, but it's mid now, y'all, and I'm so so sad. Changes like this are a huge bummer for loyalists that carry torches for these OG businesses. These are the things we notice. read more

Review #900 goes to Mel's! If you're looking to have a "weinerful" day, look no further than this Tampa classic. I stopped by here for the first time tonight and I left completely satisfied. I have been talking about stopping by this weiner joint for such a long time and tonight I finally came. Fun fact (as I noticed in other's reviews) - you can order any of their hot dogs on a pickle instead of a bun. That's right...a weiner and a pickle = keto/gluten free friendly! INDULGE! I ordered the Mel's Special Hot Dog with a pickle bun and I could barely fit this thing in my mouth. It was HUGE! Exceptionally salty, but it really hit the spot. No guilt and I'd go for it again. Quite slippery though with that pickle as the base. Next time I'll mix it up a bit and maybe try the bacon and cheddar. Casing is everything and they sell Vienna Beef dogs here. Crispy and flavorful. Whatever kind of weiner you are looking for, you can find it on their menu. Everything from small and lite (yes, they have diet dogs) to hefty and loaded (look at the Mighty Mel!), there's something for everybody! Adorable decor that is much like an old fashioned diner. Plenty of places to sit and very clean as well. Counter service with super friendly staff. Prices are really reasonable. GREAT place to stop before/after heading to Busch Gardens. Free wifi and a great place to bring the whole family. I'll be back for more! read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Mel's Special Dog on a pickle bun. Any hot dog can be made on a pickle!!! - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Finally made it here after wanting to stop here the 4 years I've been in Tampa. I've always heard about this place and today my opportunity emerged. So I ordered two Mel's specials with relish, mustard and ketchup on the poppy seed buns. I asked for mine to be cooked a little longer and the employee placed them on the grill a few minutes. I must say that they were really good and I'd definitely recommend this place and I will also return to dine here again. The customer service was great with both employees being very friendly. They are good size and the steamed buns were fresh and very delicious. Only reason I only gave a 4 star rating was the price. One dog itself was $5.25 but as long as I'm not paying any more than that I'll continue to dine here. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Mel's have it your way - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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My wife was born and raised in Tampa. Every time we come to Tampa, she always wants to go to Mel's Hot dogs. We met some family last night and had a great dinner. Yummy hot dogs with lots of menu options! Hot French fries and onion rings too! read more

A Tampa staple and I can see why. Great service. Ladies at the front counter were very friendly. Food was great. As expected. Fresh and tasty hot dog, fries were equally delish. Ambiance is like a vintage diner, quite cute. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Chicago Style dog and fries. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Service 5/5: love the staff! They are so fun and friendly! It was my first time here and they were so kind and helpful. They also made an announcement for my friend who came with me for her birthday! Atmosphere 5/5: Vintage hot dog place! It was a fun vibe! Food 4/5: I got the classic Mel's hot dog! It was great! relish was bright green, which I was a little concerned about, but it tasted fine! The bun is really good and so fluffy. The hot dog was a great juicy hot dog! They also loaded up on the french fries! So get a meal! Highly recommend if you want a good hotdog! read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Waiting for my Mel Dog - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Always good. The dogs fries and toppings are always great! Buns are v fresh and servers are very friendly! We've been coming here for 40+ years read more

Great place for chicago dogs! Inside looks like an old timey diner & menu prices are very affordable. After finding this place we never get food inside Bush Gardens anymore we always make time to go here. read more

Mel's Hot Dogs - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tampa, Florida

My hotdog was amazing, my friend had Italian beef she liked it fry's were just ok, atmosphere was classic 70's inside seating. read more

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Very family oriented. Food and customer service were amazing. Pictures everywhere you look. Old fashion and calm environment. Would recommend. 10/10 read more