Mel's Hot Dogs

Easily one of the best places to eat after going to Busch Gardens with the family. Spot the hot dog car for bonus points and they have a crazy selection of every king of dog.

Mel's is a Tampa dining legend, and after eating there a handful of times throughout my childhood and adolescence, it's easy to see why. The name of the game at Mel's is hot dogs, which might sound a little off-putting to some refined palates, but these are like the Rolls Royces of hot dogs - 100 percent beef, Chicago-style, and cooked to perfection. Chicago classics like Italian beef sandwiches and sausage make Mel's a must-visit for any Chicagoans, or anyone really, in Tampa.

Pros: Great dogs, quick service, modest prices.

Cons: Mel's gets PACKED on certain weekend nights which, in itself, is a testament to Mel's greatness, but can be a pain if you're impatient and hungry.

Ah Mel's, how I love you so. Delicious Chicago-style hot dogs and also fantastic french fries and angus beef burgers and tasty corn dogs. Fresh baked beans and tasty slaw. Located just a minute or two from USF, perfect for college students and affordable as well. Free refills and they recently started accepting debit and credit cards, saving customers from that trip to the ATM or facing an ATM fee. The inside is awesome with an old-school diner feel and Mel's is also part of the history of Tampa Bay. Always a vital part of my USF dining guide. Don't miss out on some great dogs at Mel's.

Pros: Delicious Chicago-style hot dogs, angus beef burgers, and corn dogs. Great french fries.

Cons: N/A