Tom Cooke
Once considered a neglected portion of the chicken, juicy, flavorful wings have evolved into a game-day staple and a mandatory item on any respectable bar menu. With items ranging from flats to drums, smoked to deep-fried, and sauces spanning from Asian sticky to Alabama white, there’s ample diversity in how these delectable treats can be enjoyed. Hungry? Don’t leave it to chance. We’ve scouted out the premier spot in every state to indulge in this humble yet messy delight.
Alabama: Yo’ Mama’s Restaurant
Hot Wings is a culinary triumph at Yo’ Mama’s Restaurant, a beloved hub of classic American flavors. Imagine sinking your teeth into the crispiest chicken, bathed in a compelling blend of savory, sweet, and spicy sauce and a satisfying spread of French fries, bread, and ranch dressing. Wait, the indulgence doesn’t end there. For those seeking an extra touch of decadence, they offer a golden fried variation, served alongside fluffy Belgian waffles, fresh fruit, and syrup.
California: San Tung
San Tung in San Francisco stands out as the undisputed champion of chicken wings in the Golden State. Well known for its original dry-fried chicken wings, this Chinese eatery elevates the culinary experience by infusing batter with garlic, ginger, and roasted red peppers before deep-frying to perfection. Regulars consistently sing praises of these wings, lauding them as the epitome of crispiness, juiciness, sauciness, and flavor, confirming that they live up to every bit of the hype surrounding them.
Delaware: Crooked Hammock Brewery
The Crooked Hammock Brewery offers more than just great cocktails—it’s a haven for inventive culinary delights, including their signature Pineapple Express wings. Slow-cooked and encased in crisp coconut breading, these wings are elevated with a tantalizing pineapple and jalapeño sauce. Regulars rave about their unique flavor profile, deeming them a must-try indulgence that complements the pub’s inviting atmosphere. The Crooked Hammock Brewery always delivers for those seeking a memorable dining visit with a twist.
Florida: Chi Kin
In Orlando, Chi Kin is the go-to spot for delicious wings with a Korean twist, offering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Their secret? Double-fry the chicken pieces to achieve unparalleled crunchiness before coating them in your sauce of choice. The sweet soy sauce is among the favorites, striking a balance between savory and sweet, making it a hit for those who prefer a milder flavor. Chi Kin promises a delightful wing meal that keeps customers returning for more.
Georgia: The Wing Bar
The Wing Bar, founded by two friends in 2017, is Georgia’s ultimate destination for wing fans. Visitors consistently praise their wings for their impeccable crunchiness and flawless saucing, ensuring a memorable dining adventure with every bite. Mixing and matching options are available for those torn between flavors, but why stray when the agave BBQ receives such glowing accolades? The Wing Bar is a must-visit hotspot for discerning wing lovers visiting this southern state.
Hawaii: Good Chicken
At Good Chicken, a Korean take-out gem, the name hardly does justice to the exceptional quality of their fried chicken wings—they’re simply fantastic. Delighting customers with their light, crispy batter, and flavorful sauces, these wings elevate the standard for take-out fare. While the garlic chili flavor garners attention for its bold kick, the honey shoyu option is a crowd-pleasing favorite, offering a delightful balance of mild sweetness and subtle savory notes.
Idaho: Barbacoa Grill
Barbacoa Grill is a trendy Boise bar and restaurant. Their famous chicken wings come with a unique twist—they’re served alongside a hibachi, a portable Japanese charcoal cooker, adding a visual flair to the table and allowing patrons to toast up the glaze to perfection. Customers rave about the wings, praising them for their irresistible flavor and juiciness, while the accompanying polenta chips and chipotle ranch complement this delectable dish.
Illinois: Mott St
Look no further than Mott St in Chicago for those who crave a medley of flavors. Their renowned Everything Wings boast a tasty combination of soy glaze, two varieties of chili, fried shallots, and their ‘everything’ seasoning, delivering a symphony of sweet, spicy, and sticky goodness in every bite. Accompanied by a refreshing tzatziki dip, these jumbo-sized wings have earned rave reviews from patrons who declare them nothing short of sensational. Mott St has become a hotspot for wing cravers seeking a fantastic meal in the Windy City.
Kansas: The Peanut
The Peanut, a dive-style sports bar with four bustling locations across Kansas, takes pride in crafting wings that are worth the wait. Made fresh to order, these wings require a minimum of 20 minutes to cook, ensuring that each batch emerges from the kitchen as tender, flavorful, and crispy. Tourists consistently praise them for hitting the mark, delivering satisfaction that keeps them returning for more. This dedication to quality and flavor has solidified The Peanut’s reputation as a go-to destination for wing connoisseurs in the heart of Kansas.
Kentucky: Momma’s
Momma’s BBQ joint reigns supreme in Louisville with its award-winning smoked wings, earning accolades for their irresistible flavor. While simplicity is the name of the game here, with only one type of wing on offer and minimal sauces, the unparalleled taste speaks for itself—leaving everyone thoroughly satisfied and craving more. And for the perfect finishing touch, be sure not to overlook their delectable homemade ranch dressing, elevating the wings to new heights of deliciousness.
Louisiana: Bayou Hot Wings
No trip to New Orleans is truly fulfilled without a pilgrimage to Bayou Hot Wings, where fans indulge in various lightly battered and sauced delights. From the mild allure of garlic butter parmesan to the fiery challenge of the Bayou Beast, their menu caters to all spice preferences. Nestled comfortably in the middle is the beloved Bayou Sweet Heat, which balances sweetness and spiciness—a perennial favorite among natives. Bayou Hot Wings promises great flavor, embodying Louisiana’s gastronomic charm.
Maine: The Great Lost Bear
From Thai to PB & J, The Great Lost Bear offers a playful array of wing flavors. But it’s the classic Buffalo Wings that steals the show. Prepared whole for a hearty crunch, these wings are generously coated in a sweet and mildly spicy sauce, providing a satisfyingly nostalgic taste experience. Portion sizes are enormous and accompanied by a creamy blue cheese dip, rounding out the wing indulgence. And if the wings aren’t reason enough to visit, customers can enjoy a selection of Maine-brewed beers and impeccable customer service.
Massachusetts: The Smoke Shop
The menu at BBQ hotspot The Smoke Shop boasts tempting offerings like meaty ribs, succulent brisket, and flavorful pulled pork. Overlooking their wings would be a mistake you won’t want to make. Famous for good reason, these wings undergo a meticulous process, being smoked for two hours, lightly fried, and then tossed in an irresistible blend of agave syrup and spices. Locals have declared them their favorite dish on the menu, solidifying The Smoke Shop’s reputation.
Nebraska: Oscar’s Pub & Grill
While sports bars may not always prioritize exceptional cuisine, Oscar’s defies expectations with its founding philosophy that great food is just as crucial as sports and cold beer. Spearheaded by three local enthusiasts, this bar has become renowned for its ‘char buffed’ wings, which undergo a unique process of frying, saucing, and grilling to ensure that the flavors are perfectly melded. From classics like Buffalo, BBQ, and garlic parmesan to more adventurous choices such as Thai chili bourbon, there’s something to satisfy every taste.
New York: Bar-Bill
With a legacy spanning nearly 150 years, the iconic Bar-Bill in East Aurora is synonymous with exceptional chicken wings, available in many sauce options to tantalize your taste buds. The Cajun honey butter BBQ is among the standout choices, celebrated for its distinctiveness and undeniable excellence. For those who prefer flats and drums, customization is available for an additional fee, ensuring a tailored meal. Each order is promptly prepared and served with the establishment’s signature house blue cheese dressing.