The United States is home to a diverse range of culinary delights, but few dishes are as beloved as hot wings. These spicy, savory, and often addictive treats have become a staple of American cuisine, with restaurants and bars across the country serving up their own unique takes on the classic recipe. But who has the best hot wings in the United States? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to find out.
A Brief History of Hot Wings
Before we dive into the best hot wings in the country, let’s take a brief look at the history of this beloved dish. Hot wings are believed to have originated in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. The story goes that Teressa Bellissimo, the owner of a local restaurant called the Anchor Bar, created the dish as a snack for her son and his friends. The original recipe consisted of chicken wings deep-fried and then tossed in a spicy sauce made from a combination of hot sauce and butter.
The Evolution of Hot Wings
Over the years, hot wings have evolved and spread across the country. Today, you can find hot wings on menus from coast to coast, with each region putting its own unique spin on the classic recipe. Some popular variations include:
- Buffalo-style: This is the original style of hot wings, characterized by a spicy sauce made from hot sauce and butter.
- Honey mustard: A sweeter take on the classic recipe, featuring a sauce made from honey and mustard.
- BBQ: A tangy and sweet variation, featuring a sauce made from barbecue sauce and spices.
- Lemon pepper: A bright and citrusy take on the classic recipe, featuring a sauce made from lemon juice and black pepper.
The Best Hot Wings in the United States
So, who has the best hot wings in the United States? We’ve scoured the country to find the top contenders, and here are our picks:
East Coast
- Anchor Bar (Buffalo, NY): This is the birthplace of hot wings, and it’s still serving up some of the best in the country. The original recipe is still on the menu, and it’s a must-try for any hot wing enthusiast.
- Duff’s Famous Wings (Amherst, NY): Located just outside of Buffalo, Duff’s has been serving up hot wings since 1946. Their sauce is made from a secret recipe that’s been passed down through generations.
- Wingstop (Multiple locations): This chain has locations all over the country, but its East Coast locations are particularly notable. Their hot wings are made to order, and you can choose from a variety of sauces.
South
- Hattie B’s Hot Chicken (Nashville, TN): This Nashville institution has been serving up hot chicken since 2012, and their hot wings are a must-try. Their sauce is made from a secret recipe that’s both spicy and tangy.
- The Wing Factory (Atlanta, GA): This Atlanta-based chain has been serving up hot wings since 1994. Their sauce is made from a secret recipe that’s both spicy and sweet.
- Pluckers Wing Bar (Austin, TX): This Austin-based chain has been serving up hot wings since 1995. Their sauce is made from a secret recipe that’s both spicy and tangy.
Midwest
- Quaker Steak & Lube (Multiple locations): This chain has locations all over the country, but its Midwest locations are particularly notable. Their hot wings are made to order, and you can choose from a variety of sauces.
- Buffalo Wild Wings (Multiple locations): This chain has locations all over the country, but its Midwest locations are particularly notable. Their hot wings are made to order, and you can choose from a variety of sauces.
- The Wing Spot (Chicago, IL): This Chicago-based chain has been serving up hot wings since 2015. Their sauce is made from a secret recipe that’s both spicy and tangy.
West Coast
- Howlin’ Ray’s Hot Chicken (Los Angeles, CA): This Los Angeles institution has been serving up hot chicken since 2015, and their hot wings are a must-try. Their sauce is made from a secret recipe that’s both spicy and tangy.
- Hot Wings Cafe (San Francisco, CA): This San Francisco-based chain has been serving up hot wings since 2010. Their sauce is made from a secret recipe that’s both spicy and sweet.
- Wing Dome (Seattle, WA): This Seattle-based chain has been serving up hot wings since 2001. Their sauce is made from a secret recipe that’s both spicy and tangy.
Conclusion
So, who has the best hot wings in the United States? The answer is subjective, but our picks are some of the top contenders. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Buffalo-style or prefer something a little sweeter, there’s a hot wing joint out there for you. So, go ahead and embark on your own hot wing journey – your taste buds will thank you.
Rating the Best Hot Wings
We’ve rated the best hot wings in the United States based on a variety of factors, including taste, quality, and overall experience. Here’s our rating system:
- 5/5: Exceptional hot wings that are a must-try.
- 4/5: Great hot wings that are worth trying.
- 3/5: Good hot wings that are worth a try.
- 2/5: Fair hot wings that are not worth trying.
- 1/5: Poor hot wings that are not worth trying.
Here’s our rating for each of the hot wing joints mentioned in this article:
| Restaurant | Rating |
|---|---|
| Anchor Bar | 5/5 |
| Duff’s Famous Wings | 5/5 |
| Wingstop | 4/5 |
| Hattie B’s Hot Chicken | 5/5 |
| The Wing Factory | 4/5 |
| Pluckers Wing Bar | 4/5 |
| Quaker Steak & Lube | 4/5 |
| Buffalo Wild Wings | 4/5 |
| The Wing Spot | 4/5 |
| Howlin’ Ray’s Hot Chicken | 5/5 |
| Hot Wings Cafe | 4/5 |
| Wing Dome | 4/5 |
Note: Ratings are subjective and based on our research and reviews.
What makes a great hot wing?
A great hot wing is a delicate balance of flavors, textures, and presentation. The sauce is a crucial component, and it should be tangy, slightly sweet, and have a slow-building heat that complements the richness of the chicken. The wings themselves should be crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and have a satisfying crunch that gives way to tender meat.
In addition to the sauce and the wings, the overall experience of eating a great hot wing is also important. This includes the atmosphere of the restaurant or bar, the service, and the company of the people you’re with. A great hot wing can elevate a night out with friends or a sporting event, and it’s often the little things that make the experience truly memorable.
What are some popular types of hot wings in the United States?
There are many popular types of hot wings in the United States, each with its own unique flavor profile and level of heat. Some popular varieties include Buffalo wings, which are the original and most well-known type of hot wing, and are typically made with a sauce made from a combination of hot sauce and butter. Other popular varieties include BBQ wings, which are sweet and smoky, and Korean BBQ wings, which are spicy and savory.
Other popular types of hot wings include Jamaican jerk wings, which are spicy and aromatic, and lemon pepper wings, which are bright and citrusy. Some restaurants also offer unique and creative flavor combinations, such as honey mustard wings or garlic parmesan wings. With so many options available, there’s a type of hot wing to suit every taste and preference.
What is the difference between hot wings and buffalo wings?
Hot wings and buffalo wings are often used interchangeably, but they’re not exactly the same thing. Buffalo wings are a specific type of hot wing that originated in Buffalo, New York, and are typically made with a sauce made from a combination of hot sauce and butter. They’re usually deep-fried and then tossed in the sauce, and are often served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.
Hot wings, on the other hand, are a more general term that can refer to any type of chicken wing that’s spicy or has a bold flavor. They can be made with a variety of sauces and seasonings, and can be baked, grilled, or deep-fried. While all buffalo wings are hot wings, not all hot wings are buffalo wings. However, the terms are often used interchangeably, and most people won’t quibble over the distinction.
How do I make great hot wings at home?
Making great hot wings at home is easier than you might think. The key is to start with high-quality ingredients, including fresh chicken wings and a good sauce. You can make your own sauce from scratch, or use a store-bought variety. To make the wings, simply deep-fry them until they’re crispy, then toss them in the sauce.
To take your hot wings to the next level, try adding some extra flavorings, such as garlic or onion powder, to the sauce. You can also experiment with different cooking methods, such as baking or grilling, to give the wings a unique texture and flavor. Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and sides – celery sticks and blue cheese dressing are classic, but you can also try serving your hot wings with carrot sticks, ranch dressing, or even a side salad.
What are some popular hot wing joints in the United States?
There are many great hot wing joints in the United States, each with its own unique flavor and atmosphere. Some popular chains include Buffalo Wild Wings, which has locations all over the country, and Wingstop, which is known for its flavorful wings and wide variety of sauces. Other popular hot wing joints include Anchor Bar, which is the birthplace of the buffalo wing, and Duff’s Famous Wings, which has been serving up some of the best wings in Buffalo for over 50 years.
In addition to these chains and restaurants, there are also many great local hot wing joints that are worth checking out. These can be found in cities and towns all over the country, and often offer unique and creative flavor combinations that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a hot wing aficionado or just looking for a new place to try, there’s a great hot wing joint out there for you.
How do I eat hot wings without making a mess?
Eating hot wings can be a messy business, but there are a few tips and tricks you can use to minimize the damage. First, make sure to have plenty of napkins on hand – you’ll need them to wipe your hands and clean up any spills. You can also try using a fork and knife to eat your wings, although this can be a bit tricky.
Another tip is to try to eat your wings in a way that minimizes the amount of sauce that gets on your hands and clothes. This can be done by holding the wing by the drumette and biting into the flat part, rather than the other way around. You can also try using a paper towel or cloth to wipe your hands and clean up any spills as you go. With a little practice, you should be able to eat hot wings without making a mess.
Can I make hot wings healthier by baking or grilling them?
Yes, you can make hot wings healthier by baking or grilling them instead of deep-frying. Deep-frying is a high-calorie cooking method that adds a lot of extra fat to the wings, whereas baking and grilling are lower-calorie methods that can help retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the chicken.
To make baked or grilled hot wings, simply preheat your oven or grill to the desired temperature, and cook the wings until they’re crispy and cooked through. You can then toss them in your favorite sauce and serve. Keep in mind that baked or grilled hot wings may not have the same crispy texture as deep-fried wings, but they can still be delicious and satisfying. You can also try using a small amount of oil or cooking spray to help crisp up the wings and add flavor.