With baseball season off to a promising start, my craving for hot dogs is in full swing. But I’m not crazy about the offerings at Coors Field. The bun-to-meat ratio is always off, the condiment selection is limited, and, without fail, my hot dog gets cold on the way back to my seat. Thankfully, I've found a solution: Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs. It's less than a 10-minute walk from the stadium—and well worth the extra mileage.

Choosing between the dozen or so offerings isn't easy, but I opt for the Texas Tommy, a split Vienna beef hot dog covered with bacon and cheese. Or, if it's available, the taco dog. The basic foundation—an all-beef hot dog and steamed poppyseed bun—belies the punch of flavor that comes with the toppings: taco seasoning, pico de gallo, cheese, green chile, and sour cream.

If you really want a deal, though, stop in for the Rockies game-day special: For $5, you get a Billy Dog (a traditional Chicago-style dog) and a Coors Light. The offer is only available 90 minutes before or after a game.

2445 Larimer St., 303-284-2714