Why Do We Call Them Michigan Hot Dogs in New York?

If you grew up in Upstate New York you've probably heard the term "Michigan" tossed around when talking about hot dogs. You also probably wondered why something that is so essentially Upstate NY that it bares the name of a state from the Midwest.

What is a Michigan?

This delicious hot dog is likely one you've had before. It's all all beef hot dog topped with meat sauce (NO BEANS), onions, and yellow mustard. It should also be served on a steamed bun. Simple and perfect for any hot dog lover. It's the kind that we love the most here in the Capital Region, and several locations have put their own spin on that. We just happen to do them mini style, and sometimes the hot dog is a mix of beef and pork. It's a food staple for many of us.

So why Michigan?

Having a hot dog with meat sauce is something I grew up with. I've heard them called Michigans before but always pretend I knew why. Curiosity got the best of me and I decided to do a little homework on where the name actually came from.

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When we say Upstate New York and a Michigan we're talking ALL the way up. Plattsburgh is where this dog was born. The meat sauce is known as Michigan sauce and that is probably because the folks that opened the first "Michigan" stand in 1927 were from Michigan. I am willing to bet it's just a nickname associated with that.

The result of people loving their Michigans is an entire festival dedicated them in Plattsburgh. It happens every single year. It's also something I am adding to my bucket list.