1. Gray’s Papaya
Slim and snappy, the best of the papaya posse.
402 Sixth Ave., at 8th St.; 212-260-3532

2. Katz’s
Classic deli dog, classic deli setting.
205 E. Houston st., at Ludlow St.; 212-254-2246

3. Shake Shack
Dressed-to-the-nines Chicago style.
in Madison Square Park

4. Schnäck
Eight types of wieners, some from legendary Bronx sausage-maker Stahl-Meyer.
122 Union St., nr. Columbia St., Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn; 718-855-2879

5. F&B
Fancy-pants Euro-dogs in many guises.
269 W. 23rd St., nr. Eighth Ave.; 646-486-4441

6. Hallo Berlin Pushcart
A street-food frank you can eat without signing a living will.
Fifth Ave. at 54th St.

Related:

• Archive: “Food Features”
• Articles by Robin Raisfeld | Rob Patronite
• Table of Contents: May 30, 2005 issue of New York | Subscribe!