new england split-top frankfurter hot dog bun or lobster rolls - pack of 6, 12 or 24 count local grocer the new england-style bun predates the hot dog bun found almost everywhere else in the united states by at least several years. before the invention of the new england bun, commercial bakers would slice rolls all the way through. the split on the top of the bun allows for hot dogs, chicken salad or the famous lobster rolls to fit easily in without tipping over.