Burger King's next conquest: Hot dog king

NEW YORK — Burger King is looking for a new crown: Hot Dog King.

The Miami-based chain says it plans to put hot dogs on its menu nationally for the first time, starting Feb. 23.

Burger King says it will offer hot dogs at all 7,100 of its U.S. restaurants, after testing the idea in a handful of cities last year. It says its ability to flame-grill meat makes hot dogs a natural fit on its menu.

The move comes as Burger King works to push up sales amid intensifying competition, with McDonald's now making breakfast items available all day and Wendy's offering a "4 for $4" deal to get customers in the door.

Burger King's "Grilled Dogs" will come in two varieties. The "classic" hot dog will be topped with ketchup, mustard, chopped onions and relish, and 310 calories. The company is suggesting franchisees sell it for $1.99. A chili cheese version has 330 calories, with a suggested price of $2.39.