EatUpper East Side

Papaya King

One of the best hot dog joints in the city, Papaya King was also the originator of the papaya drink/hot dog combination, which has inspired similar chains around Manhattan, although this, their flagship location, is as of August 2020 the only location of this former chain. A classical counter-service restaurant, it's great for travelers on a budget. If hot dogs aren't your thing, then they also have other classic items such as frankfurters and onion rings.

Address: 206B East 86th Street
Getting there: At 3rd Avenue; Subway: to 86th Street or to 86th Street; Bus: M86 Select Bus Service to East 86th Street & 3rd Avenue or M98, M101, M102, and M103 to 3rd Avenue & East 86th Street (northbound) or Lexington Avenue & East 86th Street (southbound)
Hours: Sun 9AM to midnight, Mon-Sat 8AM-midnight
Price: The Original, consisting of 2 hot dogs with any toppings and a 16-ounce drink, is only $6.50 yet is a full and delicious meal. Most other combos are around $8 to $10, and almost all other dishes (chicken, crown jewels, franks) cost $4 to $6
Website: papayaking.com (opens in a new tab)

Directions Suggest a nearby place

Listing from Wikivoyage: Manhattan/Upper East Side, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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