When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Franks A Lot
Why Franks A Lot is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Franks-A-Lot in Portland, Oregon, is a beloved hot dog restaurant located in the Kerns neighborhood on East Burnside Street. Set in a charming small A-frame cottage with a distinctive faux-Bavarian style, the restaurant stands out for its focus on quick, take-away and drive-thru hot dogs. It offers a casual, friendly atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends, especially those craving classic American comfort food with a twist. The outdoor seating includes seven tables, providing a relaxed spot to enjoy food in good weather. The menu features an exciting variety of hot dogs ranging from the classic Great American Frank to the Long Wiener Frank, alongside Chicago-style hot dogs with traditional toppings. The restaurant also caters to diverse tastes with German sausages, Polish hot dogs, vegetable franks, and vegan options. Complementing the hot dogs are homemade items such as secret recipe chili, fresh-squeezed limeade, freshly brewed sweet tea, hand-made milkshakes, frozen slushies, and fresh baked cookies. This makes Franks-A-Lot a fun and tasty destination for casual dining and meeting friends in a laid-back vibe.
Here's what people think of Franks A Lot
As of recent, Franks A Lot holds a 4.6-star rating based on 513 reviews.
Customer reviews of Franks-A-Lot in Portland reveal a generally positive reception, highlighted by a 4.6-star average rating from over 500 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the wide selection of hot dogs and the generous portions, often describing the dogs as "jumbo-sized" and well-prepared. Reviewers repeatedly mention the Chicago-style hot dog with classic toppings as a standout item, alongside specialty offerings like Polish dogs dressed with a variety of fresh and zesty ingredients. The restaurant’s owners and staff are frequently praised for their friendly and engaging demeanor, contributing to a welcoming environment. Positive reviews emphasize the unique menu, the quality of the homemade sides, and the quick, efficient service. On the downside, some customers note the limited covered seating, which may affect comfort during adverse weather, and the small size of the indoor rating area, making it more suited for quick bites or takeaway rather than extended dining. Overall, the feedback underscores Franks-A-Lot as a must-visit destination for hot dog lovers craving delicious, affordable, and quick meals with a neighborhood charm. Its consistent popularity and favorable reviews make it a reliable spot for casual meetups and craving satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Malinda Proud
I haven't had a hot dog in years because I'm not really a fan but these are good. Large portions. The chili cheese fries we got is a small. Gluten free and vegetarian options. Quick service and hot made to order.
Meghan Hendrickson
Very yummy vegan bratwurst! They were generous with toppings and the flavors were great. I love that they have a few vegan options to choose from. We would definitely come back for a quick bite again!
karkat vantas
This is what they mean by local Portland spot. Don't go to a dumb Food Cart. This is what is amazing. And important to Portland. Don't miss this unique place and they have veggie options as well. It's just a couple of guys doing their best.
Hannah Green
I was very disappointed and did not expect the terrible quality based on the other reviews here. They give you very few (frozen) onion rings for $6.25. They wear no gloves, didn’t wash their hands as far as I saw, touched ingredients with their bare hands, and the same person was cashier and made the food. I am concerned about those sanitation problems. I got a corn dog, it was not crunchy at all and definitely undercooked. It was also so so oily I could only eat a few bites. The chili dog was okay, but we felt uncomfortable eating it after they put the cheese and onions on with their unwashed hands. It was also really expensive for the size and quality of the food. I don’t recommend coming here.
Michael Key
Great hot dog joints are rare. I'm always on the lookout for excellent ones. Franks has been on my list to try for months. Most places offer one or possibly two different wieners. Usually the options are just toppings. Franks has about a dozen dogs to choose from. That's legit! I ordered the Red Hot Frank which is their spiciest. I went with yellow mustard, cheddar and onion. It was truly fantastic. The price is excellent too. It's just $7.75. The cheese was a little more, but worth it. Next time I will add chili. It's a stand so the limited seating is outdoors. Ample parking. Franks-A-Lot is one of the best. Check out my profile for more great eateries and craft cocktail bars. ✌🏼
How to reach Franks A Lot
None
Website: None
Why Franks A Lot may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Franks A Lot with your friends?
If you're looking for a casual, lively spot to gather with friends or family, Franks A Lot in Portland, Oregon is an excellent choice. This hot dog restaurant offers a fun, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of a classic Chicago hot dog joint, complete with a unique “faux-Bavarian” A-frame cottage vibe that sets it apart from typical fast-food places. Its location in the Whole Foods parking lot on East Burnside Street makes it easy to find and accessible, with outdoor seating that encourages an informal, communal dining experience. You and your group can enjoy jumbo-sized hot dogs, creatively crafted with a variety of toppings, alongside comforting hand-made milkshakes, making it a perfect place for enjoying satisfying, no-fuss meals together. The restaurant's ranking of 4.6 out of 5 from over 500 reviews speaks to its popularity and quality. Whether you're after classic American franks, German sausages, or vegan options, Franks A Lot caters to diverse tastes, ensuring everyone in your group finds something delicious. Its affordable prices make it easy to share a feast without breaking the bank. All these qualities make Rallying at Franks A Lot a delicious, fun, and hassle-free way to enjoy time with your friends outdoors.
What activities can you enjoy at Franks A Lot?
The core activity at Franks A Lot is, of course, enjoying a meal together — but this simple pleasure comes with multiple layers of enjoyment, especially when shared with friends. Franks A Lot specializes in quick-service hot dogs and related fast-food staples, so getting your food is fast and convenient. Thanks to its take-out and drive-thru options, you can choose whether to grab a meal and head to a nearby park or make use of the outdoor seating area. There are seven outdoor tables, providing ample casual space for small groups to sit, chat, and eat comfortably. Though only one table has cover, the outdoor setting invites people to enjoy Portland’s mild climate and casual atmosphere. Another activity that often happens here is voting on or sharing your choice of unique hot dog styles—whether classic Chicago-style with its bright, fresh toppings or creative variations like the jumbo American loaded with jalapeños and sauerkraut. Moreover, for those seeking plant-based options, Franks A Lot offers several vegan hot dogs, including gluten-free vegan options, letting groups with different dietary preferences dine together without hassle. Pairing your dog with a nostalgic old-time soda or a hand-made milkshake adds a fun element to your meetup. Overall, the activities revolve around flexible dining styles, friendly gatherings, and savoring familiar, crave-worthy foods that everyone loves.
What makes Franks A Lot perfect for group meetups?
Franks A Lot is ideal for groups because of its laid-back, no-pressure atmosphere coupled with excellent value and variety in its menu. The restaurant’s location, nestled in the Whole Foods parking lot on a bustling street, provides easy parking and accessibility, a crucial factor when coordinating meetups with several people. Its outdoor seating encourages mingling and the social vibe of dining al fresco, which is often preferred for gatherings to enjoy fresh air and avoid the constraints of enclosed spaces. The menu’s flexibility is another big draw—it ranges from classic all-beef franks to veggie, vegan, and gluten-free options, letting groups with diverse tastes and dietary needs find something satisfying. Pricing is very reasonable, meaning larger groups can indulge without concern for cost, and the portions are generous, perfect for sharing or creating mini taste-testing sessions. The friendly and attentive staff add to the welcoming environment, creating an ease of ordering and interaction that makes everyone feel at home. Moreover, the nostalgia factor—evoking the charm of traditional American hot dog stands with a gourmet twist—makes the meetup feel special yet unpretentious, a recipe for good times with friends or family.
How diverse is the menu at Franks A Lot?
Franks A Lot’s menu impresses with its breadth and specialization in quality hot dogs and sausages. They offer several classic styles, including the Great American Frank and the longer Long Wiener Frank, and more sophisticated options like the Chicago-style hot dog loaded with mustard, relish, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, sport peppers, and celery salt. Beyond traditional beef franks, they serve German-style sausages and Polish hot dogs, introducing richer flavors and textures. Importantly for groups with varied preferences, Franks A Lot provides multiple vegan options such as a standard vegan dog, a gluten-free vegan dog, vegan Italian sausage, and vegan kielbasa, showing commitment to inclusivity. Side offerings like fries and corndogs—some dipped in homemade batter—round out the menu. They also feature hand-made milkshakes and nostalgic soda selections, adding a sweet finish to the savory meal. The menu’s capacity to cater to meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans alike makes it a communal dining spot where everyone can find something appealing to enjoy.
How does Franks A Lot accommodate different group sizes and needs?
Franks A Lot accommodates different group sizes primarily through its combination of take-out, drive-thru, and outdoor seating options. While indoor seating is limited or nonexistent, the seven outdoor tables provide space for small to medium-sized groups to gather comfortably. For larger groups or those wanting more privacy, the take-out and drive-thru options allow everyone to order separately and then choose whether to eat nearby or take food to another meetup location. The staff’s friendly service and efficient ordering system prevent long waits, even when groups order a variety of items, while the affordable prices ease sharing and group splits. Accessibility considerations are also addressed: the restaurant is wheelchair accessible. Additionally, the diverse menu, which includes vegan and gluten-free items, ensures that diet restrictions are managed smoothly without limiting group's meal options. The casual outdoor venue invites any type of group, from families with kids to friends meeting for a quick bite or after an outdoor activity.
What should groups know about the ordering experience and price at Franks A Lot?
Groups planning to meet at Franks A Lot will find the ordering experience straightforward and well-suited to casual, spontaneous dining. The restaurant is primarily a take-out and drive-thru operation, making for quick service and minimal wait times — an important aspect when coordinating with a group. Ordering large or mixed-menu groups is easily manageable without long delays or confusion. Prices are very reasonable, with couples reporting meals around $20 total, which implies very affordable group totals. Some customers mention a cash-only policy or surcharges for card use, so groups may want to prepare accordingly to avoid extra fees. The quality of the food and portion sizes compensate well for the economical price, giving excellent value for the money. The nostalgic drinks and tasty fries add bonuses that complete a satisfying meal. The casual, quick-paced experience means groups don’t have to linger long if they want to move on, but the outdoor seating invites relaxing and chatting afterward if preferred.
Franks A Lot perfectly blends casual dining, quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere that fosters socializing with friends or family. Its diverse menu, quick service, and outdoor setup make it ideal for group get-togethers where everyone’s tastes and dietary choices are respected. The combination of classic hot dogs, vegan offerings, nostalgic drinks, and straightforward pricing make it a hotspot for anyone craving a relaxed, tasty meal in Portland. Whether you plan to sit down under a shared umbrella, grab a casual meal for the road, or catch up with friends outdoors, Franks A Lot delivers a memorable experience worth rallying around.