Queen of Wien hails the corn dog.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Brief article

A surprising choice has emerged in the age old debate of Americans' favorite regional hot dogs. In a survey conducted by Harris Poll for the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Washington, D.C., corn dogs were the top dog (46%) among consumers. New York hot dogs slathered with mustard and onions were the second choice at 38%, beating out the well-dressed Chicago dog--featuring mustard, onions, relish, tomato slices, a dill pickle spear, a sport pepper, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun--which was No. 1 among 26%.

"Americans have long loved corn dogs at county and state fairs where they first emerged, but their national popularity surprised us," admits NHDSC Pres. Janet Riley, known as the Queen of Wien. "Historically, they faced tough competition from the hometown favorites in New York and Chicago. We clearly underestimated the allure of the deep fried corn meal batter combined with the snap of the hot dog."

The difference might be generational...