Flo’s Hot Dogs: Southern Maine’s Legendary Wiener Stand Named Best in Maine

Who can resist a delicious hot dog? It seems like no one, as America's hot dog consumption numbers are remarkably impressive.

According to hot-dog.org, Americans typically consume over seven billion hot dogs between Memorial Day and Labor Day. That means 818 hot dogs are eaten every minute. That's a lot of wieners, folks.

America Unquestionably Loves the Hot Dog

Oh, and that's just a little of a quarter of the entire year. Just imagine how many dogs are being eaten when looking at the entire calendar. 

Let's be honest, it's the perfect treat. It's great at a sporting event or picnic, while camping, at the golf course, at the sports bar, at a funeral, during a divorce proceeding, or any gathering where meat needs to be consumed.

Hot dogs are also very versatile. They can be grilled, fried, steamed, deep-fried, and even microwaved (although that should be your last resort). No matter how they're cooked, they're going to taste good.

Hot dogs also bring out incredible debate topics and questions:

• What should be put on a hot dog?
• Is a hot dog a sandwich?
• Is beef or pork better?
• What region has the best?
• How are these things actually made?
• How hot dogs is too many to eat in one sitting?

While the hot dog has European origins, it has clearly been perfected in the United States (just like most things). And there's a cool list that fully supports that statement.

The popular foodie site Mashed posted a list all about this country's love for tubed meat. It's a deep dive into how we’ve perfected the hot dog, from its humble beginnings to what it is today. The list features the best hot dog stand in every state, from trendy spots to classic joints that have been serving up dogs for years.

Maine's Best Hot Dog: Flo's in Cape Neddick

Maine's representative falls into the second category, as Mashed selected a Southern Maine joint that's been satisfying customers for decades: Flo's Hot Dogs.

Located in Cape Neddick, Flo's has been steaming hot dogs to perfection since it opened in 1959. Scores of people flock to the shack daily to taste the special dogs with Flo's unique relish.

READ MORE: Foodie State: 32 Maine Restaurants Worthy of a Long Drive

Like many other iconic Maine dining spots, Flo's is a must-visit stop for any tourist visiting coastal York County. It's practically a must-visit for any Mainer, too. And Flo's knows how to keep the demand high, considering they're only open for four hours each day.

The power of Flo's is immense. A simple search on Facebook will show numerous fan pages dedicated to the stand. Folks from Florida, Kentucky, and practically every corner of the map comment on their first trip to Flo's or the fact that they make sure to stop by every time they visit the state. The power of Flo's is unstoppable. It must be that relish.

Here is a little of what Mashed wrote of why they selected Flo's for Maine's best spot:

What makes the franks here so special? People say it's all about the special relish they make in house. It's a spicy chutney-like relish that pairs perfectly with the other two toppings: mayonnaise and celery salt.

It may sound a little strange, but it's been a hit for generations. Clearly, they know what they are doing.

Congratulations to Flo's on this national attention. It's always great to see small Maine businesses get the recognition they deserve. Here's to many more generations of their special steamed hot dogs satisfying the palates.