How it all began...

So it started as a joke – "Let's write a book about the search for the best hot wing in the world."  So, I figured that's a pretty tall order, let's start on a more manageable level – how about in the United States?  So, here we go.

So, then the next question is, what constitutes the best wing?  Well, my friend, there are a few ways to judge a wing and much goes into a great wing.  So here goes:  size of the wing, preparation, sauce and taste.  Let's look at the details of each.

Size of the wing:  some places will serve you the typical hot wing, normal old wing dings.  For the purpose of this blog, they will get a 3 out of 5 because it is your typical wing.  Some places will give you a larger wing, but larger wings aren't necessarily better when it comes to preparation.

Preparation:  this is key – and there are some differences of opinion.  So, I'll tell you mine.  Wings shouldn't be breaded – and while I'll try to be as openminded about this as possible, I just think breading kills a hot wing – save it for chicken tenders.  Two, wings should be nicely cooked, not really crispy like fried chicken, but not soggy for sure.  And the meat should not be overcooked and hard to chew.  And raw, forget it.

Sauce/taste:  This makes or breaks a great wing.  I've had wings that looked great and the prep was good but either the sauce was your plain old franks and butter or just bland.  So, here's my general thoughts on sauce.  Franks and butter, while the standard for hot wings, it shouldn't be the end all be all.  That said, I like my hot wings hot, with a bit of kick.  Believe it or not, you can make a great wing with an original sauce that has some kick.  Now for the most part, I will stick to hot wings, but you may see reviews for other sauces as well.  And speaking of sauce, it has to have some.  I had wings once where they quickly and hastily coated the wings... they were plain fried chicken and I ended up resaucing them myself at home to get some flavor on them.

So, the rating system is:

Wing Size: 1-5 (5 best)
Preparation: 1-5 (5 best)
Taste/Sauce: 1-5 (5 best)

And I'll throw in my comments.

So, I've had wings in the past and while I do have my favorites, they are pre-blog ratings (PB for short).  So, I may throw some places that I cannot do a proper rating, but I do have general comments on, so I'll notate as such.  Also, I've been keeping reviews on places for almost 3 years now, so I'm going to start by getting my old reviews up here mixed in with new reviews.  Again, I'll notate as such.  It's ironic that the first wing I will review is in the town where I was born, Roanoke, Virginia.  Let the games begin!