Chicken Wings 101
Ok, so I’m not going to lie; I have been a little nervous to write a chicken wing blog. Because we live in such a fantastic chicken wing oasis here in the 716 and because, let’s face it, y’all get a little crazy when anyone deems a particular spot as having “the best chicken wings.” If someone wrote a blog about every place that serves good wings in the area it would seriously be 716 pages long. So, here’s a little disclaimer: These just happen to be a few of my personal favorite wings in the 716. Please don’t send me hate mail, put my face on a dart board or curse my first born if you disagree. Alas, behold six of my favorite spots to get wings in the 716.
Anchor Bar
When talking about chicken wings you have to start where it all started: Anchor Bar. In 1964, Dominic Bellissimo served chicken wings prepared by his mother, Teressa Bellissimo, at their original Anchor Bar Buffalo location, launching a taste sensation that has become nationally famous. With locations nationwide, Anchor Bar is spreading the flavors of Buffalo to the entire country and now chicken wings or as outsiders call them “Buffalo Wings” have become not only a national treasure but a world-wide sensation. Try their “suicidal sauce” if you like it hot.
The OG wings from Anchor Bar.
Enjoy 50 gent wings every Monday at The Wellington Pub.
Wellington Pub
Wellington Pub is truly a gem of Hertel Ave. Everything they make is made in house and you can taste the difference. Their chicken wings are no exception. The wings come out fast and are reasonably priced. We love their dark atmosphere which is perfect for over indulging in a big plate of wings. If you like your wings crispy and not over-sauced Wellington Pub is the place for you.
Brickyard Pub and BBQ
At Brickyard Pub and BBQ beer and food are more than just beer and food; they’re a lifestyle. They offer a variety of sauce options however I highly recommend the dry rub. The unique flavor is unlike any other chicken wing I’ve ever had. Even the staunchest wing purist cannot deny the impeccable and downright addictive flavors of this delicious house rub. Brickyard Pub and BBQ offers two sauce choices for your order so no more lovers’ quarrels about how to order your wings!
Whether you’re at Brickyard Pub and BBQ or next door at Brickyard Brewing Co. you can’t go wrong with wings!
Wings from the oldest restaurant in Erie County, the Eagle House.
The Eagle House
The Eagle House is the oldest restaurant in Erie County and has been satisfying customers since 1827. When a place has been open this long you know they’re doing something right, or in this case, a lot of things right. Especially their chicken wings! Sit at their beautiful oak bar or seasonal patio while you enjoy a plate of their delicious wings. If you’re someone who passes on specialty wings and prefers a classic style wing then the Eagle House is where you should go for your next wing fix.
Gene McCarthy’s Old First Ward Brewing Company
Gene McCarthy’s is an Irish tavern opened at the beginning of the Twentieth Century. The historical relevance of this place is definitely not lost on me. As someone who is proud of their Irish heritage, I love a good brewpub. Especially one that has such delicious fare, including wings. From classic sauce options to specialty sauce options only available at Gene McCarthy’s, their wings definitely do not disappoint. I like to wash my wings down with their very own St. Patrick’s Pilsner.
The famous McCarthy’s Wings are perfect for any blue cheese enthusiast.
Look for the sign and you’ll know you’re there!
Adam’s Rib
Adam’s Rib is a well-known neighborhood restaurant located in the Village of Snyder in Amherst. They serve the (regionally) famous Spicy Plum Sauce wings however, I also love their Ocean City style wings. The Ocean City sauce is a mixture of honey and Old Bay seasoning which is quite the delicious juxtaposition. But don’t take my word for it; try them both and pick your own favorite!
Like I said, there’s almost too many delicious wings to mention here in the 716. (Aren’t we lucky?!) And while undoubtedly I have pissed off and perhaps even offended some of you for not mentioning your personal favorite, I hope you enjoyed reading about some of my favorite wings here. While we may all have our own personal wing preferences when it comes to sauces, styles, and spots, at least there’s one thing every person in this area can agree on when it comes to wings: RANCH SUCKS!
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