Best of Boston

2014 Best Hot Dog

Simco's

What, you might ask, is the only thing better than a hot dog? A footlong. And what’s the only thing that can improve such perfection? The addition of a buttered, griddled bun, and a generous topping of chili and melted cheese. There’s no seating at this Mattapan institution—just a pickup window—but when you factor in that prices range from $3.50 for a naked dog (with classic toppings) to $4.75 for chili-cheese, there may not be a tastier value in Boston.

1509 Blue Hill Ave., Mattapan, 617-296-3800,