Haute Dogs — Restaurant in Virginia

My first visit to Haute Dogs was mid-afternoon this past Sunday, October 12, 2025. The family-owned and operated business lived up to its reputation. Chloe, a family member, served me and took a moment to chat about the background of Haute Dogs. She was friendly and engaging, and great at customer service. I'm impressed that the meat served is locally sourced.

I was interested in a basic all-beef hot dog with yellow mustard and chopped onions on a steamed hot dog bun. I was disappointed that classic steamed buns are not available. The haute dog comes on a toasted brioche bun.

I believe a steamed hot dog bun significantly enhances the enjoyment of an all-beef hot dog with yellow mustard and chopped onions in several ways: The soft and pillowy texture of a steamed bun complements the firm, meaty texture of the hot dog. This contrast creates an enjoyable mouthfeel that balances the overall bite. A steamed bun helps maintain the heat of the hot dog. The warmth enhances the overall flavor and experience. A steamed bun is slightly moist, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors from the hot dog and the mustard. This melding of flavors enhances every bite. A steamed bun also releases a pleasant aroma that adds to the sensory pleasure. A simple, steamed bun allows the flavors of the all-beef hot dog, mustard, and onions to shine without overwhelming the palate, providing a classic and satisfying flavor profile.

In my opinion, a steamed hot dog bun elevates the enjoyment of a hot dog, providing a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and experience. The crispy, crunchy, toasted brioche bun is the opposite of the classic steamed bun. Toasted brioche does not allow the flavors of the all-beef hot dog, mustard, and onions to...

PROS -Good food. -Nice selection of hot dogs, brats, burgers, fries, tater tots, and milkshakes.

CONS -Nobody acknowledged us when we walked in. -I had trouble using their credit card machine and the cashier didn't seem interested in helping me. -I was hoping for better seating than the restaurant previously located in the space, but it's not much better. Limited seating. Chairs are not the same height as the built-in seating making for awkward dining. It's better as a takeout joint. -At one point it got very busy and the man with a red baseball cap behind the counter didn't bother to help out the cashier. She was stuck taking telephone orders and in-person orders by herself. I had to wait 12 minutes to order a milkshake. When it was done, it was left on the counter and nobody called out my name,...

Love their dogs! I was initially disappointed when they closed their S Arlington location but kept an eye out for their “re-opening”. Thankfully they did and I had to go. I love how there is a wide selection to choose from and you can tailor orders to suit your needs. Of the many things I’ve tried I have never been disappointed. All the food is great. The staff are always friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is very comfortable. There’s free parking which makes visits easy. Interestingly I decided to try their bacon jam smash burger, although I don’t care for blue cheese. I still enjoyed it but need to remember to change out the cheese. My wife had the Chicago, and we rounded things out with rings and garlic Parmesan fries. IMHO, the garlic Parmesan fries are a...