Hot Dog Hot Spot: Frankinbun

Pitchers and catchers have reported! That means spring is semi-officially here. Soon the Cactus and Grapefruit Leagues will be awash with action, offering up some great pre-season play and delicious dogs to accompany 2016 spring training.

The Friendly Staff

It has been a brutal winter...for some. Did I mention I spent a week in January in Palm Springs? I was checking out the California League, and of course while in town I sought out the best hot dog hot spot to report on. You know, for a town that is as affluent and famous as Palm Springs you would think they would have a dedicated, brick and mortar hot dog hangout where the denizens could dine on the dog. Surprisingly, you can get a latte on every corner but no dog joint….until now.

Frankinbun was not officially open when owner Tristan invited me to the test run of Palm Springs’ only true hot dog hot spot. It is an small, unassuming place on 540 South Indian Canyon Drive, but it delivers a gigantic dose of food diversity into the city. I mean, what is a town without a go-to hot dog place?

The Portuguese/Hawaiian. Yes, it is as good as it looks

Make no mistake, this IS the go-to stop for hot dogs in the greater Palm Springs area. And this is no greasy spoon dog stand. In a style that would make the Palm Springs residents proud, the delicious, natural-casing franks are served on a Parisian Baguette. What could taste better? Topping the same dog with some of Frankinbun’s gourmet chutney toppings.

With about a dozen signature dogs to choose from, I had the Portuguese/Hawaiian Hot. It is both sweet and spicy, add a dollop of chutney and it sets off a  cross-cultural, European/Pacific explosion of flavor. Choose from an impressive list of craft beers to wash it down with, or as I did, a sparkling Perrier. The perfect Palm Springs hot dog experience.

Pick up some original condiments to take home

Frankinbun is an addition that the city should be excited about. No looking down your nose at this hot dog joint. It’s a first class, gourmet eatery that peddles an American Staple. Carey Grant would be proud to eat here. Wait...I think he is dead. Come to think of it, you will be too someday. Live or visit Palm Springs? On your deathbed one regret you will have is not downing a dog at Frankinbun. Don’t die bitter….grab a friend and head to Frankinbun and enjoy some of Palm Springs’ newest and finest cuisine.