Nathan's Famous started as a single hot dog stand on Coney Island in 1916
Nathan's Famous opened on July 4, 1916, when Nathan Handwerker, a Polish immigrant, set up a hot dog cart on Surf Avenue in Coney Island, New York. He charged five cents per hot dog when competitors charged a dime, and the lower price drew crowds. The stand grew into a restaurant that still operates at that original Coney Island location today.
The business expanded beyond Coney Island in the 1970s and 1980s, opening additional locations across the United States. Today Nathan's Famous operates hundreds of restaurants and stands, from full-service locations to kiosks in shopping malls and sports venues. The company went public in 1993 and is traded on the NASDAQ stock exchange.
The restaurant is most famous for the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, held annually on July 4th at Coney Island. The competitive eating event has drawn international participants and television coverage since it began in 1972, though the contest's origins as a marketing stunt have become secondary to its status as a cultural event.
Key Takeaways
- Nathan's Famous operates the original Coney Island location where Nathan Handwerker opened his hot dog stand in 1916, and that site remains a working restaurant.
- The menu centers on hot dogs, but most locations also serve chicken tenders, crinkle-cut fries, clams, and other fried seafood items.
- Nathan's Famous locations vary widely in size and menu offerings, from full restaurants to small kiosks, so what you can order depends on which location you visit.
- The annual Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest takes place on July 4th at the Coney Island boardwalk and draws thousands of spectators.
What Nathan's Famous serves beyond hot dogs
While hot dogs are the signature item, most Nathan's Famous restaurants offer a broader menu. Chicken tenders, crinkle-cut fries, and onion rings appear at nearly all locations. Many locations serve fried clams, shrimp, and fish, reflecting the seafood tradition of Coney Island.
Beverages include soft drinks, beer (where permitted), and frozen drinks. Desserts typically include frozen custard or ice cream. The exact menu varies by location—a small kiosk in an airport or mall will have fewer options than a full-service restaurant.
Nathan's Famous hot dogs themselves come in different varieties. The standard Nathan's Famous hot dog uses an all-beef frank on a steamed bun. Some locations offer variations like chili cheese dogs or other toppings, though availability depends on the individual restaurant.
Where to find Nathan's Famous locations
The original Coney Island location at 1310 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, remains open and is the flagship restaurant. This is the site where Nathan Handwerker opened his stand in 1916 and where the annual eating contest takes place.
Nathan's Famous has expanded to multiple states, with locations in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, California, and other states. The company also operates kiosks and stands in shopping malls, airports, sports stadiums, and amusement parks. A location finder on the Nathan's Famous website shows current restaurant addresses and hours.
Franchise opportunities exist for entrepreneurs interested in opening a Nathan's Famous location. The company provides information about franchising through its corporate website, though franchise costs and requirements vary based on location type and market conditions.
The Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest
The Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest occurs annually on July 4th at the Coney Island boardwalk, typically in the morning. Competitive eaters from around the world participate in timed eating competitions, with separate men's and women's divisions. The contest has been held since 1972 and draws thousands of spectators and television viewers.
The competition format has changed over the years. In recent years, the men's division contest lasts ten minutes, and participants eat hot dogs with buns. The winner is determined by who consumes the most hot dogs in the allotted time. Prize money is awarded to the winner.
The event has become a Fourth of July tradition broadcast on television and streamed online. Spectators can watch in person at the Coney Island boardwalk, though the crowd size varies year to year. Nathan's Famous uses the contest as a marketing event and cultural celebration rather than as a primary revenue source.
Pricing and payment options at Nathan's Famous
Nathan's Famous hot dogs typically cost between $5 and $8 depending on the location and whether toppings are added. Combo meals that include a hot dog, fries, and a drink generally range from $10 to $15. Prices vary significantly by location—a Coney Island restaurant charges differently than a mall kiosk or airport stand.
Most Nathan's Famous locations accept cash and major credit cards. Many also accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Payment methods may differ at smaller kiosks or outdoor stands, so checking before ordering is wise if you prefer a specific payment method.
Nathan's Famous does not offer a loyalty program or rewards card at most locations, though individual franchisees may run local promotions. Seasonal specials and limited-time menu items appear occasionally, particularly around holidays or special events.
Visiting the original Coney Island location
The original Nathan's Famous at 1310 Surf Avenue operates year-round and is a full-service restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. The Coney Island boardwalk location draws both tourists and locals, particularly during summer months and on the Fourth of July. Parking is available in nearby lots, though spaces fill quickly during peak season.
The restaurant's interior includes memorabilia from Nathan's history and the eating contest. Outdoor seating on the boardwalk offers views of the beach and ocean. The location is accessible by subway via the D, F, N, or Q trains to the Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station.
Hours vary seasonally, with extended hours during summer and reduced hours in winter months. The restaurant is typically busier during afternoon and evening hours, particularly on weekends. Visiting early in the day or during off-season months generally means shorter waits.
Nathan's Famous ownership and corporate structure
Nathan's Famous, Inc. is a publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol NATH. The company operates both company-owned restaurants and franchised locations. Franchise agreements allow independent operators to use the Nathan's Famous name and menu in exchange for fees and adherence to company standards.
The corporate headquarters is located in New York. The company's annual reports and investor information are available through the NASDAQ website and the Nathan's Famous corporate site. Leadership and strategic direction are determined by a board of directors and executive management team.
Nathan's Famous generates revenue through restaurant sales, franchise fees, and royalties from franchisees. The company also licenses its name and products to third parties for retail sale in grocery stores and other venues, though these products are separate from the restaurant experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the original Nathan's Famous on Coney Island year-round?
Yes, the original location at 1310 Surf Avenue operates year-round. Hours vary by season, with longer hours in summer and shorter hours in winter. The restaurant is typically open daily, though specific hours change seasonally, so checking ahead is recommended.
Does Nathan's Famous deliver or offer online ordering?
Some Nathan's Famous locations offer delivery through third-party apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats, but not all do. Availability depends on the individual restaurant location. Calling the specific location directly or checking the Nathan's Famous website location finder will show which services are available near you.
What is the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest and when does it happen?
The Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest is an annual competitive eating event held on July 4th at the Coney Island boardwalk. Competitive eaters from around the world participate in timed competitions to eat the most hot dogs. The event is broadcast on television and draws thousands of spectators.
Are Nathan's Famous hot dogs sold in grocery stores?
Nathan's Famous hot dogs and other products are sold in many grocery stores and supermarkets under a licensing agreement. These retail products are manufactured and packaged separately from the restaurant hot dogs. The taste and quality may differ from hot dogs prepared at Nathan's Famous restaurants.
How much does a Nathan's Famous hot dog cost?
A single Nathan's Famous hot dog typically costs between $5 and $8, depending on location and toppings. Combo meals with a hot dog, fries, and drink generally range from $10 to $15. Prices vary by location, with Coney Island and tourist areas charging more than some mall kiosks.