Shorty's Famous Hot Dogs

4.4 ( 744 reviews )

Checking... 10:30 AM - 3:30 PM See Hours

214 S White St, Wake Forest, NC 27587, United States

+1 919-556-8026

Shorty's Famous Hot Dogs, located in the heart of Wake Forest, NC, is a delightful nod to classic Americana through its simple yet satisfying menu. Customers rave about the standout offerings, particularly the hot dogs—renowned for their vibrant red casing and perfect chew. The nostalgic atmosphere, complete with giant hot dog mascots and a game room filled with pinball machines, enhances the dining experience, making it feel like a trip back in time. Patrons like Pam Bridges hail Shorty's as home to some of the best hot dogs they've ever tasted, with accompanying French fries that hit the mark. Elizabeth Hadden appreciates the extensive and inventive menu, featuring items like pimento hot dogs and meatloaf burgers, all praised for their flavor and heartiness. For those looking for a quick bite, the menu maintains simplicity without sacrificing taste, with the red hot dogs and classic sandwiches being particular favorites among diners. Despite some critiques regarding the friendliness of the staff, the overall consensus remains that Shorty's offers delicious food in a fun and nostalgic setting. With items like the grilled pimento cheese sandwich and fresh-squeezed lemonade, this hot dog haven ensures a memorable meal for all who visit. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Shorty's is worth a stop for its delicious offerings and welcoming atmosphere.

Accessibility
- Has wheelchair-accessible car park
- Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Has wheelchair-accessible seating
- Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
- On-site services available
- Offers takeaway
- Serves dine-in
- No delivery
Highlights
- Has fast service
Popular for
- Popular for lunch
- Popular for dinner
- Good for solo dining
Offerings
- Serves alcohol
- Serves coffee
- Serves comfort food
- Serves food
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Serves lunch
- Serves dinner
- Serves dessert
- Has seating
Amenities
- Has bar on site
- Has toilet
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Good for groups
- Popular with tourists
- Popular with university students
Planning
- Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
- Accepts credit cards
- Accepts debit cards
- Accepts NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs available
Parking
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Somewhat difficult to find a space

Pam Bridges

May 27,2025

The hot dogs were delicious as were the French fries. What a delightful restaurant in downtown Wake Forest. Update: The best hot dogs I have ever had!! It is worth the drive from Cary. French fries were also delicious!

Elizabeth Hadden

May 19,2025

I love any restaurant with giant anthropomorphic hot dogs at the door and pinball in the back. Luckily, Shorty’s meets its classic theming with solid food. Read the yellowed peg board sign and discover all the possibilities: classic chili cheese hot dogs, pimento hot dogs, meatloaf burgers, fries, and so much more. There’s no wrong way to indulge in the menu, everything my group tried was excellent. The highlight, of course, is the hot dog. Vibrant red casing and the perfect chew make for a delicious hot dog, and the bun and toppings add to it all. The meat loaf sandwich was also excellent, like a burger but with a meat loaf patty instead of normal burger meat. More savory but the same presence on the bun. You can add the standard toppings to their hot dogs, plus extras like pimento cheese if you’re feeling zany. They have pool tables, some pinball machines, and arcade sticker machines in the back. It’s a delicious establishment that doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it really is: a hot dog temple.

Ellison Lambert

May 16,2025

Stopped in for a quick bite to eat and really enjoyed the simple menu and classic grill selections. We had red dogs (all the way, of course) and french fries - both delicious. Service was friendly and quick, bottle sodas were a nice option, and pinball in the back was a plus. Will be back!

Marla Hoefer

May 13,2025

The food is very good, but I agree the long hair should be put up in a cap, but it doesn't stop me from going in there. But it would with others. I have never found a hair in the food, and Im a regularThe atmosphere is mostly good, but there needs to be more smiles.

Sherri Barham

Mar 14,2025

Great grilled pimento cheese sandwich with bacon and an Arnold Palmer. Famous hotdogs and all of the nostalgic signs and atmosphere were great for a hotdog joint. They had a game room in the back. It. Was like stepping back in time. They have a basic selection on the menu and a 99 sanitation score The only thing that would have been icing on the cake is a little more friendly southern hospitality vibe from behind the counter. That was very cut and dry. “Whatcha want” kinda place.

David Hasssn

Mar 11,2025

I love going to Shorty's whenever I get the chance. The customer service was great and the food was even better. I love how they market the place as an old school diner and they definitely capture that vibe.

Barbara

Feb 24,2025

First time here. We tried the cheeseburger and chili hot dog. The both tasted great. We also ordered onion rings and fries. They were also great. The crew working there were very friendly and helpful in ordering. My husband loved the Arnold palmer and I loved the fresh squeezed lemonade. We will definitelybe back with the kids.

Ashley S.

Feb 12,2025

Awesome hot dogs and hamburgers. Fries were crispy on the outside and soft inside. Inexpensive in a place that looks like an old soda shop. Extremely fast service.

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