What’s hot in Columbia? Other than the weather, that is.

With the Fourth of July right around the corner, get into the summer mood with some of the best hot dogs around. Here’s where to find ’em!

Irene’s (for a limited time)
711 N. College Ave
For the holiday, your favorite Mexican barbecue joint is cheffing up burgers and dogs! The restaurant is open Friday (7/3) from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday (7/4) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and closed Sunday.

Mugs-Up Drive In
603 Orange St.
This is where you’ll find your chili dog! Mugs-Up is a local favorite for a reason, known for homemade chili and cheese fries served up on their hot dogs. This a cash-only establishment. Hours are Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; hours may differ on the holiday.

Booches
110 S. 9th St.
Another classic. Enjoy the cool A/C at Booches, shoot some pool or catch a baseball game all while eating one of their iconic hot dogs with a bag of chips. Visit any day but Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; hours may differ on the holiday.

Just Jeff’s Burgers and Dogs
701 Business Loop 70 W
Enjoy Vienna hot dogs at, arguably, Columbia’s most famous hot dog and burger joint. They’re almost always the Gold-winner for Best Burger in Best of Columbia, but their hot dogs are not to be overshadowed. Visit Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; hours may differ on the holiday.

Big Daddy’s BBQ
1802 N. Paris Road
1205 N. Garth Ave.
Big Daddy’s BBQ’s “Slaw Dog” is an entire afternoon July barbecue on one plate! The photo speaks for itself: this dog is loaded up with toppings, slaw, sauce and is grilled to perfection. Give it a try Tuesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; hours may differ on the holiday.

Como Smoke and Fire
3804 Buttonwood Dr.
Do not let the humble hot dog be overshadowed by Como Smoke’s vast barbecue menu — these hot dogs are anything but humble. Their chili dog is a quarter pound, smothered with toppings, and their hot dog entree comes with two quarter pound dogs. Come get your dogs while you can or place your catering order now, as Como Smoke & Fire will be closed July 3-5.

Old Plank Tavern
1641 Route K
This is where your average ballpark dog is taken to an entirely new level. Old Plank Tavern, a new addition to South Columbia, offers Koegel beef hot dogs with unique toppings such as their Elvis Dog with peanut butter and bacon, Seattle Dog with cream cheese and onions, a classic Chicago-style dog and more. Visit Tuesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; hours may differ on the holiday.