Iconic NYC hot dog spot Papaya King reopens: ‘they are slinging dogs’

UPPER EAST SIDE, Manhattan (PIX11)– Every dog has its day; on Saturday, the iconic Papaya King reopened at a new location on the Upper East Side, according to the Upper East Site .

“I was there today. I can confirm that they are slinging dogs.” Andrew Fine, a member of the E86th Street Association, wrote in an email to PIX11 News. “[I’m] Happy that Papaya King is back. They have been part of the fabric of East 86th and New York for over 90 years. It felt like they left a void when they closed. So glad to have them back-slinging dogs on East 86th!”

The beloved New York City hot dog spot closed its doors in April 2023 after 90 years in business.

Despite some setbacks, the popular vendor was determined to find a new home. It shuttered its 86th Street and Third Avenue locations and was set to open across the street at 1535 Third Avenue, between East 86th and 87th Streets.

However, the new location never opened after the landlord wouldn’t allow Papaya King to install a kitchen hood, according to a report by Eater .

After a much-anticipated hiatus, Saturday marked the day when New Yorkers could once again relish a dog with sauerkraut and onions at the iconic Papaya King. They could also indulge in one of their fresh tropical drinks with flavors like Coconut Champagne and Strawberry fields.

The new Papaya King location is conveniently situated near the popular cupcake stand Baked by Melissa on 206 East 86th Street, offering a delightful culinary experience in the heart of the Upper East Side.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here .

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