The Colombian hot dog, known as “perro caliente” in everyday life in Colombia, has been included by TasteAtlas among the best in Latin America and the world in 2026. This recognition highlights not only its flavor but also the cultural identity behind this abundant, creative preparation that is deeply rooted in the country’s street food scene.
What makes the Colombian perro caliente special enough to be ranked among the best in Latin America?
Unlike the classic hot dog of U.S. origin, the Colombian “perro caliente” is characterized by its generous size, the combination of sweet and savory flavors, and a quantity of ingredients that breaks any rule of gastronomic restraint. For TasteAtlas, this mix turns the Colombian “perro caliente” into a unique experience within the Latin American culinary map.
One of the most striking elements for the ranking was the use of unconventional toppings, led by pineapple, an ingredient that divides opinions but has become a defining feature of the Colombian hot dog. Added to this are shoestring or crushed potatoes, quail eggs (especially in Bogota and Medellin), bacon, and a wide variety of sauces ranging from mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard to pink sauce, garlic sauce, or pineapple sauce.
This explosion of flavors and textures reflects the creativity of Colombian street food, where each vendor leaves their own signature. In addition, the “perro caliente” changes from region to region, incorporating local ingredients such as grated cheese, sweet corn, lettuce, or fresh salads, reinforcing its status as a diverse and adaptable gastronomic icon.
Popular varieties of the Colombian hot dog
The TasteAtlas recognition also highlights the diversity of the Colombian hot dog. Among the most popular versions are:
Classic with pineapple and shoestring potatoes
Sausage, soft bun, cabbage slaw, pineapple sauce, mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, and crushed potatoes.
Super perro
Includes bacon, grated coastal cheese, onion, tomato, cilantro, bell pepper, and several sauces such as garlic, pineapple, and pink sauce.
Paisa hot dog (Medellin)
Known for its generous amounts of melted cheese, sweet corn, shoestring potatoes, and garlic sauce, delivering bold and hearty flavors.
Mixed hot dog
Combines the sausage with other cured meats such as chorizo or beer sausage, accompanied by sauces and cheese.
@paulanoguera05 It’s crazy when people only put ketchup & Mustard…. This is MOUTH WATERING #colombianstreetfood #perroscalientes #foodtiktok #colombia #colombianhotdogs #hotdogs #streetfood ♬ Vale la Pena – Live – Juan Luis Guerra 4.40
Medellin’s “perras:” the Colombian hot dog taken to the extreme
Within the evolution of the Colombian “perro caliente,” the famous “perras” of Medellin hold a special place. Considered a variation of the paisa hot dog, they are defined by the removal of the sausage, which is replaced by grilled bacon strips as the main protein.
These creations are topped with abundant melted double-cream or mozzarella cheese, shoestring potatoes for crunch, and a mix of sauces that includes ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pink sauce, and, in some cases, a special bacon-based sauce. Fresh cabbage and carrot slaw is also added to balance the richness of the dish.
Perras have become an icon of Medellin’s nighttime street food, popular among friends after a night out and instantly recognizable thanks to their bold name, which has given them a distinct identity within the world of the Colombian hot dog.
@localdeperras_ A quien llevarías ? 😏🔥