El Guero Canelo received a 2018 American Classics award from the James Beard Foundation.
El Güero Canelo is known for the Sonoran hot dog. (photo: El Güero Canelo)
 
El Güero Canelo in Tucson, Arizona was one of five eateries to receive the James Beard Foundation’s 2018 American Classics award, which is given to regional foodservice establishments “…that are cherished for their quality food, local character and lasting appeal,” according to the organization’s web site.

El Güero Canelo is cherished for the Sonoran hot dog, which is a bacon-wrapped frankfurter served in a savory bread called a bolillo and topped with beans, onions, mustard, mayonnaise and a jalapeno sauce. Owner Daniel Contreras is a Sonoran native; he established El Güero Canelo in 1993.

The 2018 America’s Classics winners will be honored at the James Beard Awards Gala at Lyric Opera of Chicago on May 7.