Chicago, a city known for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, also boasts a surprisingly vibrant buffalo wing scene. From classic joints to innovative newcomers, the options for satisfying your wing craving are endless. This comprehensive guide dives into 24 of the best places to get your buffalo wing fix in the Windy City, categorized for your convenience. We'll explore different styles, sauces, and atmospheres to help you find your perfect wing experience.
Classic Chicago Wing Joints: A Taste of Tradition
These establishments have stood the test of time, earning their reputation through consistently delicious wings and loyal customer bases. Their classic preparations and familiar flavors are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The Big 3:
- Wings Over: A Chicago institution, Wings Over offers a massive menu of wing flavors, from mild to scorching hot. Their signature sauces are legendary, and their generous portions are perfect for sharing (or not!). They're known for their crispy skin and juicy meat.
- Twin Anchors: This iconic rib joint also serves up some seriously good wings. While their ribs are the star attraction, the wings are a delicious and often overlooked addition to their menu. Expect a smoky, slightly sweet flavor profile.
- Pequod's Pizza: Yes, a pizza place! But Pequod's deep-dish prowess extends to surprisingly fantastic wings. The crispy, caramelized crust adds a unique twist to the classic buffalo wing experience.
Other Classic Contenders:
- George's Bar & Grill: A neighborhood favorite known for its massive wings and a wide variety of dipping sauces.
- Kingston Mines: This blues club offers tasty wings to fuel your late-night musical adventures.
- Original Smokehouse: Not just for BBQ, this spot offers a solid selection of wings with a smoky twist.
Beyond the Basics: Innovative Buffalo Wings in Chicago
These restaurants take the classic buffalo wing and elevate it with creative sauces, unique preparations, and unexpected flavor combinations.
Spicy & Adventurous:
- Honey Butter Fried Chicken: While known for their fried chicken, their wings are equally addictive. Expect inventive sauces and crispy, flavorful chicken.
- Hot Doug's: This hot dog emporium occasionally features unique wing specials that are not to be missed – expect the unexpected.
- Big Star: Their tacos are legendary, but their wings offer a delicious alternative with creative and spicy sauces.
Elevated & Gourmet:
- Monteverde: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated take on buffalo wings, incorporating high-quality ingredients and unique techniques.
- Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's celebrated restaurant often features inventive wing preparations on their ever-changing menu.
- RPM Italian: This stylish spot offers high-end wings with an Italian twist.
Diverse Flavors: Explore Chicago's Wing World
Chicago's wing scene is diverse, showcasing influences from across culinary landscapes.
International Influences:
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria: While famous for deep dish, their wings offer a surprising twist on traditional buffalo wings.
- Portillo's Hot Dogs: Another Chicago icon, Portillo's serves up their own take on the classic wing.
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: While primarily known for seafood, their wings offer a slightly different flavor profile.
Unique Styles:
- The Purple Pig: This tapas-style restaurant offers creative small plates, often including wings with unique twists.
- Public House: This gastropub offers a rotating selection of wing flavors with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.
- RPM Steak: A sophisticated steakhouse, their wings offer an upscale wing experience.
Hidden Gems & Neighborhood Favorites: Discover Your Next Wing Spot
These spots may be smaller or less well-known, but they offer consistently high-quality wings that are well worth seeking out.
- Dimo's Pizza: This pizzeria offers a selection of wings alongside their delicious pizza.
- Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: A beloved brewery and pizza place with unexpectedly good wings.
- Southport Grocery: A local favorite with a great atmosphere and delicious wings.
Beyond the Traditional: Unique Wing Experiences
These places push the boundaries of what a "buffalo wing" can be.
- Andros Taverna: Their Greek-inspired wings offer a unique twist on a classic.
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: A classic steakhouse, but their wings are a surprising and delicious option.
- Lonesome Rose: This Tex-Mex spot offers a delicious, southwestern take on wings.
Choosing Your Chicago Wing Adventure
This list provides a diverse range of options, from classic Chicago joints to innovative newcomers. Remember to consider your preferred spice level, desired atmosphere, and price point when making your choice. Happy wing hunting!
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and new wing spots are constantly emerging in Chicago. Be sure to explore and discover your own personal favorites!
