Finding a spot that does comfort food right can feel like striking gold, especially when you’re craving something simple but seriously satisfying. D & B’s Hot Dogs and Ice Cream on Oak Ridge Highway has been winning over Knoxville locals with their creative hot dogs, juicy burgers, hand-scooped shakes, and enough ice cream options to make your sweet tooth sing. This family-run gem has built a reputation for serving up honest-to-goodness American classics with a twist, all while keeping the vibe welcoming and the service lightning fast.
Whether you’re stopping in for lunch or treating yourself to dessert, this place knows how to deliver exactly what you’re craving.
The Covered Wagon Dog
When customers talk about their favorite menu items at D & B’s, this hot dog comes up again and again. The Covered Wagon combines everything you want in comfort food and stacks it all onto one perfectly grilled frank. The magic starts with that toasted split-top bun, which gets crisped up on the skillet until it’s golden and just sturdy enough to hold all the toppings without falling apart.
The hot dog itself gets smothered in house-made chili that’s got just the right amount of seasoning. Then comes a generous pile of shredded cheddar cheese, which melts into all the warm layers underneath. A dollop of sour cream adds a cool, tangy contrast that balances out the richness of everything else.
But here’s where it gets really interesting: those little fried potato squares on top add a satisfying crunch that makes every bite a textural adventure.
Regulars swear by this combination, and some folks have even said it’s one of the best hot dogs they’ve ever eaten. The way the flavors work together feels both familiar and exciting at the same time. You get the classic chili-cheese vibe, but the sour cream and crispy potatoes take it somewhere new.
First-timers often order this one based on recommendations from the friendly staff, who clearly know what they’re talking about. The portions are hearty enough to fill you up without feeling overly heavy. It’s the kind of meal that hits the spot whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely dinner.
If you’re the type who likes trying signature dishes, this one should be at the top of your list. The Covered Wagon has earned its reputation through consistently great execution and a flavor profile that keeps people driving back from all over the area. Some customers have mentioned making the 40-minute trip twice a month just for this hot dog, which tells you everything you need to know about how good it really is.
Rattlesnake Fries
If you’re someone who likes a little heat with your meal, these fries will wake up your taste buds in the best possible way. Rattlesnake Fries start with a generous portion of fresh-cut fries that come out hot and crispy from the kitchen. But they don’t stop there.
The kitchen loads them up with chili, melted cheese, and a scattering of jalapeños that bring some serious kick to the party.
According to folks who’ve tried them, these fries pack more spice than you might expect. One reviewer mentioned being pleasantly surprised by how much heat they delivered, which made the whole experience even better for spice lovers. The jalapeños are fresh and tangy, cutting through the richness of the cheese and chili while adding that signature bite.
The fries underneath stay crispy enough to hold their own against all those toppings, which is no small feat. Nobody likes soggy fries, and D & B’s seems to have figured out the timing to keep everything at the right texture. The chili adds a savory, meaty layer that makes this feel more like a meal than just a side dish.
These make a perfect shareable appetizer if you’re coming with friends, though plenty of people order them as their main event. They’re filling enough to satisfy a serious appetite, especially when paired with one of the restaurant’s ice-cold drinks. The combination of flavors and textures keeps things interesting from the first bite to the last.
Staff members are happy to adjust the spice level if you ask, but part of the fun is experiencing them the way they’re meant to be. The name fits perfectly because these fries definitely have some bite. Whether you’re a heat seeker or just curious about trying something different, Rattlesnake Fries offer a fun departure from standard french fries.
They’ve become one of those menu items that people specifically mention when recommending the restaurant to friends.
Hand-Scooped Chocolate Shake
Some places use soft-serve machines or pre-mixed shake bases, but D & B’s does things the old-fashioned way. Their chocolate shakes get made right in front of you with real ice cream scooped fresh from the freezer. You can watch as they blend it to that perfect thick consistency that requires a sturdy straw and maybe a spoon for good measure.
The result is a shake that tastes like actual ice cream instead of some watered-down imitation. Rich chocolate flavor comes through in every sip, and the texture is thick enough that you have to work for it a little. That’s exactly how a proper milkshake should be.
They top it off with a swirl of whipped cream and a cherry, giving it that classic diner aesthetic that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Customers consistently praise the quality of these shakes, with several reviews specifically calling them out as highlights of their meal. One person mentioned how the chocolate shake was equally amazing as their hot dogs, which says a lot considering how good the food is here. The portions are generous without being so huge that you can’t finish them.
These shakes pair beautifully with just about anything on the menu, but they’re especially good alongside something spicy or savory. The cool, creamy sweetness provides a perfect counterbalance to hot dogs loaded with chili or those fiery Rattlesnake Fries. Many people save room specifically for a shake because they know it’s worth it.
The staff clearly takes pride in making these right, and it shows in the final product. You’re not getting some rushed, slapped-together dessert. This is a carefully crafted shake that delivers on both flavor and nostalgia.
Whether you’re finishing off your meal or just stopping in for something sweet, the hand-scooped chocolate shake represents everything D & B’s does well: quality ingredients, careful preparation, and that homemade touch that keeps customers coming back.
Ole Smokey Brat
Not everything at D & B’s revolves around traditional hot dogs, and the Ole Smokey Brat proves they can handle different styles of sausage just as well. This German-inspired option brings a different flavor profile to the table, one that’s a bit more robust and complex than your standard frank. The brat itself gets cooked until the outside develops a nice crispy snap while the inside stays juicy and flavorful.
What makes this brat special is the attention to cooking technique. Getting that perfect texture where the casing crisps up without the sausage drying out takes skill and timing. D & B’s nails it consistently, according to multiple customer reviews.
The exterior provides a satisfying crunch when you bite into it, then gives way to that juicy, well-seasoned interior that’s packed with flavor.
The toppings stay traditional with tangy sauerkraut and a house-made spicy mustard that adds just the right kick. The sauerkraut is properly prepared so it’s not too vinegary or overpowering. It complements the richness of the brat without drowning it out.
That spicy mustard brings heat and sharpness that cuts through the fat and makes every bite more interesting.
Customers who try this often mention being impressed by how authentic it tastes. One reviewer specifically called out how wonderful the sauerkraut and mustard combination was, noting it gave the brat that genuine German-style feel. The toasted bun holds everything together nicely and adds another layer of texture to the experience.
If you’re looking for something a little different from the specialty hot dogs, this brat offers a great alternative without straying too far from the restaurant’s core concept. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal on its own, though pairing it with some onion rings or fries makes it even better. The Ole Smokey Brat shows that D & B’s has range beyond just creative hot dog combinations, and it’s become a favorite for customers who appreciate well-executed sausages.
Chili Cheese Dog
Sometimes you just want a classic done right, and that’s exactly what you get with the chili cheese dog at D & B’s. This isn’t some fancy reinvention of comfort food. It’s the real deal: a quality hot dog topped with house-made chili and a pile of shredded cheddar cheese.
The simplicity is the whole point, and when every component is this good, nothing else is needed.
The chili deserves special attention because it’s clearly made from scratch. It’s got the right consistency and seasoning to complement the hot dog without overwhelming it. Some reviewers have noted it can make the bun a bit soggy if you take your time eating, but that’s just what happens with a generously sauced hot dog.
The trade-off is worth it for all that flavor.
What sets this version apart is the quality of the cheese. Instead of using that artificial cheese sauce you find at some places, D & B’s uses real shredded cheddar that melts into the warm chili and creates a gooey, satisfying topping. The combination of melted cheese and chili is one of those flavor pairings that never gets old because it works on such a fundamental level.
The hot dog itself has a nice smoky quality that comes through even with all those toppings. You can tell they’re using good-quality franks, not the cheapest option they could find. That attention to ingredient quality makes a noticeable difference in the final product.
The toasted split-top bun adds a buttery crunch that holds up reasonably well against all the moisture.
Multiple customers have mentioned ordering this classic preparation and being thoroughly satisfied. It’s the kind of thing you can order confidently even on your first visit because you know what you’re getting. The execution is consistent, the portions are generous, and the price feels fair for what you receive.
For anyone who grew up loving chili cheese dogs, this version will hit all the right nostalgic notes while still tasting fresh and well-made.
Banana Split
After tackling one of D & B’s savory creations, you’ll want to save some room for dessert because their ice cream game is just as strong. The banana split is a showstopper that arrives at your table looking like something from an old-fashioned ice cream parlor. It’s built the traditional way with three generous scoops of hand-dipped ice cream nestled between sliced bananas and topped with all the fixings.
The ice cream quality makes all the difference here. Since they scoop it fresh rather than using soft-serve, you get real flavor and proper texture in every spoonful. The toppings include chocolate sauce, whipped cream, nuts, and cherries, creating that classic presentation that makes you feel like a kid again.
Everything tastes fresh and well-prepared rather than thrown together from bottles and cans.
Multiple reviewers have mentioned specifically wanting to try the banana split, which suggests it’s gained a reputation among regular customers. The portion size is substantial enough to share if you’re feeling generous, though most people probably won’t want to. It’s the kind of dessert that looks impressive when it arrives at your table and tastes even better than it looks.
The combination of cold, creamy ice cream with the soft banana and various toppings creates a perfect mix of textures and temperatures. Each bite can be a little different depending on what you scoop up, which keeps things interesting from start to finish. The chocolate sauce is rich without being overly sweet, and the whipped cream adds that light, airy contrast.
What makes this banana split special is the care that goes into assembling it. This isn’t some rushed dessert thrown together during a busy shift. You can tell someone took the time to make it look good and taste even better.
For anyone who loves classic ice cream parlor desserts, this one delivers on both nostalgia and quality. It’s become one of those menu items that people specifically mention when talking about their D & B’s experience, right up there with the hot dogs and burgers.
Beer-Battered Onion Rings
Choosing the right side dish can make or break your meal, and D & B’s onion rings offer a solid option for anyone who prefers them over fries. These aren’t your standard frozen rings pulled from a bag. They’re made with real onion slices dipped in beer batter and fried until they develop that golden-brown color that signals they’re done just right.
The texture hits that sweet spot where the coating is crispy without being too thick or heavy. You can actually taste the onion inside, which isn’t always the case with onion rings. Some places load on so much breading that you’re basically eating fried batter with a hint of onion.
D & B’s keeps the ratio balanced so both elements come through clearly.
One honest reviewer mentioned these taste pretty straightforward, like batter and onion without a ton of extra seasoning. That’s actually a positive for people who appreciate letting the natural flavors shine through. The beer batter adds a subtle complexity without overwhelming everything else.
They’re good on their own, but they also pair nicely with ketchup or any of the sauces available at the restaurant.
The onion rings come out hot and fresh, which makes a huge difference in how they taste and feel. Cold onion rings are sad onion rings, but these arrive at your table still steaming. The crunch factor is on point, giving you that satisfying snap when you bite through the coating to reach the tender onion inside.
While they might not be the most aggressively seasoned onion rings you’ll ever eat, that simplicity appeals to plenty of customers. Sometimes you want something that tastes clean and straightforward rather than loaded with spices and additives. These rings deliver exactly that: quality ingredients prepared well without trying to be something they’re not.
They make a great accompaniment to any of the burgers or hot dogs, adding some variety to your plate without competing for attention with the main event.
Hand-Patted Burgers
While the restaurant’s name puts hot dogs front and center, their burgers have quietly built their own loyal following. These aren’t pre-formed frozen patties that taste like every other fast-food burger you’ve ever had. D & B’s hand-pats their burger patties fresh, which means better texture, better flavor, and that homemade quality you can actually taste.
The difference between a hand-patted burger and a frozen one is significant. Fresh ground beef that gets formed into patties right before cooking develops better crust on the outside while staying juicier inside. The texture is less uniform and more interesting, with those little irregularities that come from actual handwork.
You can tell someone put effort into making your burger rather than just throwing a frozen puck on the grill.
Customers consistently mention the burgers when reviewing D & B’s, often noting they’re just as good as the hot dogs. That’s high praise considering how much attention the specialty dogs get. The burgers come with your choice of toppings and can be customized to match whatever you’re craving.
The vegetables are fresh and crisp, the cheese melts properly, and the buns get toasted to add another layer of flavor and texture.
The cooking is spot-on, with burgers coming out at the right temperature and doneness level. Nobody wants a dry, overcooked burger, and D & B’s seems to have the timing down. The beef itself tastes like quality meat rather than filler and additives.
It’s the kind of burger that reminds you why this food became an American classic in the first place.
Multiple reviews specifically call out the burgers as delicious and worth ordering, with some people making them their go-to choice even with all the creative hot dog options available. The portions are generous enough to satisfy a hearty appetite, and the prices remain reasonable for what you’re getting. Whether you pair yours with fries, onion rings, or go all out and add a shake, these hand-patted burgers represent comfort food done right.
Fried Bologna Sandwich
Here’s something you don’t see on every menu these days. The fried bologna sandwich is pure Southern comfort food that takes a simple concept and executes it beautifully. Thick-cut bologna gets fried until the edges curl up and develop a crispy texture while the center stays tender and flavorful.
It’s the kind of sandwich that probably reminds older folks of their childhood while introducing younger customers to a classic they might have missed.
One reviewer gave this sandwich a solid 9 out of 10, which is impressive for something so straightforward. They mentioned that adding onion might bump it up even higher, which shows how close to perfect it already is. The staff at D & B’s clearly knows how to cook bologna properly, getting it to that ideal state where it’s crispy without being dry or tough.
The sandwich comes on good bread that’s been toasted or grilled to add another dimension of texture and flavor. All those little details matter when you’re working with simple ingredients. The difference between mediocre and excellent often comes down to execution, and D & B’s nails the execution on this one.
The bologna itself is quality meat that tastes like the real thing rather than some processed mystery product.
This sandwich appeals to people who appreciate traditional Southern cooking and aren’t looking for anything fancy or complicated. Sometimes the best food is the simplest food done right. The fried bologna sandwich fits that description perfectly.
It’s filling, flavorful, and reasonably priced, hitting all the marks you want from a casual lunch spot.
The fact that customers are specifically seeking out this sandwich and rating it so highly speaks to how well D & B’s handles their entire menu. They could easily focus all their attention on the specialty hot dogs and let everything else slide, but they don’t. Every item gets the same level of care and quality control.
Whether you grew up eating fried bologna sandwiches or you’re curious to try one for the first time, this version won’t disappoint. It’s become another one of those menu items that regulars recommend to newcomers.
The D&B Signature Dog
Every hot dog joint needs a signature creation that represents what they’re all about, and at D & B’s, that’s the D&B dog. This version takes inspiration from Chicago-style hot dogs but puts its own spin on things. Instead of sliced tomatoes that can make everything slide around, they use chopped tomatoes that distribute more evenly and add freshness without the mess.
The combination of toppings creates a balanced flavor profile where nothing dominates but everything contributes. You get the tang from mustard, the crunch from fresh vegetables, and the savory goodness from a quality hot dog that’s been grilled to perfection. The chopped tomatoes are a smart choice because they add moisture and acidity without overwhelming the other ingredients or making the bun soggy.
One customer specifically called out the chopped tomatoes as a feature they really appreciated, noting they worked better than the traditional sliced version. That kind of thoughtful adjustment shows the owners have put real consideration into how their hot dogs are built. They’re not just copying what everyone else does.
They’re thinking about what actually makes for the best eating experience.
The kraut component adds another layer of flavor complexity, bringing that fermented tang that pairs so well with grilled meat. Everything gets tucked into one of those signature split-top buns that’s been toasted on the griddle. The result is a hot dog that feels both familiar and new at the same time, hitting those classic notes while offering something a bit different.
This is the kind of hot dog you order when you want to understand what D & B’s is all about. It showcases their approach to food: quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a willingness to adjust traditional recipes when it makes sense. The D&B signature dog has earned its place at the top of the menu through consistent execution and smart flavor choices that appeal to a wide range of customers.
Elvis-Inspired Desserts
D & B’s takes their dessert game seriously, and nowhere is that more obvious than with their Elvis-themed creations. These aren’t just regular ice cream sundaes with a cute name slapped on them. They’re carefully crafted desserts that pay homage to the King’s famous love of peanut butter, banana, and all things indulgent.
The restaurant offers two different Elvis variations, both of which have earned enthusiastic praise from customers.
One reviewer specifically called these desserts “over the top awesome,” which gives you an idea of how seriously D & B’s approaches their sweet offerings. The combination of peanut butter and banana is already a winner, but when you add ice cream, chocolate, and other toppings into the mix, it becomes something truly special. These are the kind of desserts that look impressive when they arrive at your table and taste even better than they look.
The staff seems genuinely enthusiastic about recommending these desserts, which suggests they’re proud of what they’ve created. When the people making your food are excited about it, that enthusiasm usually translates into better quality and more attention to detail. The Elvis desserts represent the fun, creative side of D & B’s menu, showing they’re willing to have a little fun while still delivering serious flavor.
Portion sizes are generous enough that sharing becomes a reasonable option, though you might not want to. The balance of flavors works surprisingly well, with the peanut butter richness playing off the fresh banana and cold ice cream. It’s indulgent without being cloying, sweet without being overwhelming.
Each component contributes something different to the overall experience.
These desserts have become something of a signature item for D & B’s, right alongside their specialty hot dogs. Multiple customers specifically mention trying them and being blown away by how good they are. If you’re a fan of peanut butter and banana combinations or just want to try something fun and different, the Elvis-inspired desserts deliver on every level.
They’re proof that D & B’s puts just as much thought into their sweet menu as they do into their savory offerings.
Strawberry Milkshake
Chocolate might get all the attention, but the strawberry milkshake at D & B’s deserves equal recognition. Made with the same hand-scooped technique as all their shakes, this version brings fresh strawberry flavor that tastes like actual fruit rather than artificial flavoring. The color is that pretty pink that makes you smile before you even take a sip, and the consistency is thick enough to require some serious straw work.
One customer mentioned being sad when their hot dog was gone but still having an amazing strawberry milkshake to finish, which perfectly captures how good these are. They’re not just an afterthought or a way to use up leftover ice cream. These shakes get the same attention and care as everything else on the menu.
The strawberry flavor is prominent without being too sweet or candy-like.
The shake arrives topped with whipped cream that’s light and airy rather than dense and heavy. It’s a small detail, but it makes the whole presentation more appealing and adds another textural element to enjoy. The portion size is substantial without being so large that you feel sick afterward.
It’s that perfect amount where you finish satisfied rather than uncomfortably full.
These shakes pair beautifully with any of the savory menu items, but they’re also great on their own if you’re just stopping in for something sweet. The cold, creamy texture provides relief on hot Tennessee days, and the flavor is refreshing enough to cleanse your palate after a rich meal. The strawberry version offers a lighter alternative to chocolate for anyone who wants something fruity.
What makes these shakes special is the quality you can taste in every sip. This isn’t some powder mixed with milk or soft-serve ice cream run through a machine. It’s real ice cream blended properly with real strawberry flavor that comes through clearly.
The staff takes pride in making these right, and it shows. Whether you’re a strawberry shake enthusiast or you typically go for other flavors, this version is worth trying at least once.