Los Angeles, a city known for its sunshine, celebrities, and diverse culinary scene, also boasts a surprisingly vibrant buffalo wing culture. Forget the Hollywood Hills for a moment; we're diving headfirst into the best places to find those crispy, juicy, and intensely flavorful buffalo wings. This guide will take you on a spicy journey through LA's top 14 wing joints, ensuring you find your perfect fiery feast.
Finding Your Fave: Different Styles of Buffalo Wings in LA
Before we get started, it's worth noting that "buffalo wing" is a broad term. In LA, you'll find a variety of styles, from classic to creatively adventurous:
- Classic Buffalo: The OG. Crispy fried wings tossed in a Frank's RedHot-based sauce, ranging in heat level from mild to scorching.
- BBQ Wings: Sweet, smoky, and tangy, these are a delicious alternative for those who want flavor without the extreme heat.
- Garlic Parmesan Wings: A savory option for those who prefer a milder flavor profile. These wings often feature a generous coating of garlic and parmesan cheese.
- Asian-inspired Wings: LA's diverse food scene extends to wings! Expect unique sauces incorporating gochujang, teriyaki, or other Asian flavors.
- Dry Rub Wings: No sauce here! These wings are coated in a flavorful dry rub, usually featuring spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
Top 14 Buffalo Wing Spots in Los Angeles: A Spicy Ranking
This list isn't ranked in any particular order because taste is subjective. Each location brings its own unique charm and wing expertise to the table!
1. The Wingstop: A national chain, but their LA locations consistently deliver crispy, juicy wings with a wide variety of flavor options. Their classic buffalo sauce is a solid choice.
2. Buffalo Wild Wings: Another national chain, but their extensive sauce selection and sports-bar atmosphere make it a great choice for game day or a casual hangout.
3. Hotville Wings: Known for their incredibly spicy options, Hotville Wings is not for the faint of heart. If you're a heat-seeker, this is your place.
4. Dave's Hot Chicken: This LA-born chain has exploded in popularity thanks to its intensely spicy chicken, including wings that go from "Little Sweetie" to "Reaper."
5. Roscoe's House of Chicken 'N Waffles: A LA institution, Roscoe's offers some surprisingly delicious wings as a side to their famous chicken and waffles.
6. Howlin' Ray's: While known more for their fried chicken, Howlin' Ray's also serves fantastic wings, with a similar level of spice and flavor to their main dish.
7. Pizzana: Yes, a pizza place! But Pizzana offers some seriously great wings, often featuring creative and seasonal flavor combinations.
8. The Habit Burger Grill: Another surprising entry, The Habit's surprisingly tasty wings might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but they make a good contender.
9. Yard House: With a large menu, Yard House has a selection of wings that fit any mood.
10. Raising Cane's: While known primarily for chicken fingers, Raising Cane's offers simple, well-executed wings as a tasty option.
11. Bonchon: This Korean fried chicken chain makes a great entry if you want crispy wings with some Korean-inspired sauces.
12. Honey's Kettle: Known for its unique approach to fried chicken, they're worth a visit for a different kind of wing experience.
13. Grand Central Market: This vibrant food hall is home to several vendors offering wings, ensuring variety and choices in one place.
14. Your Local Dive Bar: Don't sleep on those local spots! Many neighborhood bars offer unexpected wing gems.
Beyond the Sauce: What Makes a Great Wing?
While sauce is crucial, other elements contribute to a perfect wing:
- Crispy Skin: The skin should be perfectly crispy and golden brown.
- Juicy Meat: The meat inside should be tender and juicy, not dry or overcooked.
- Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the chicken itself makes a big difference.
- Proper Cooking: The cooking method—whether frying, grilling, or baking—directly impacts the final product.
Finding Your Perfect LA Wing Experience
This list offers a great starting point for your Los Angeles wing adventure. Remember to explore, experiment, and discover your personal favorite spots! Happy eating!
