No catering for a party, whether it’s for the Super Bowl or a family gathering, is complete without hot wings, but it’s not commonly known where they originated from. Tangy, spicy, and irresistible, these finger-staining treats, also known as buffalo wings, have a short but surprisingly eventful history. Below, learn more about one of America’s favorite finger foods.

The Origin of the Hot Wing

Like hamburgers and other popular foods, the origins of the buffalo wing are shrouded in mystery, but the likeliest story ties them to the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, NY. There, proprietor Teressa Bellissimo supposedly mistakenly received a shipment of wings instead of the chicken necks she used to make spaghetti sauce.

Making the best of a bad situation (wings were usually thrown away at the time, being considered nearly worthless), Teressa was struck by inspiration. Cutting the wings into two pieces, she deep-fried them without breading, then covered them in a spicy pepper sauce and served them with celery and bleu cheese left over from the bar’s normal snack options. The first plate of hot wings was served on a Friday evening in 1964, and an American classic was born.

Rise to Fame

Before long, demand for the spicy little snack was so great that other bar owners in New York couldn’t resist, and they soon began offering it on their menus. Visitors to the state were captivated by hot wings, and the recipe spread like wildfire, becoming firmly established with the creation of wing-specializing bars across the nation. By the early 1980s, they were a staple snack at bars and sporting events, providing a delicious spicy complement to catering.

Starting in the 1990s, hot wings were consumed in special eating contests, and they became available at home when pizza chains like Domino’s™ and Pizza Hut™ began offering them as a side dish for delivery. In the years since, entire chains have grown to international popularity on the strength of the spicy, juicy wings which were born in a little bar kitchen in upstate New York.

 

Treat yourself and your friends to Lincoln, NE’s, finest hot wings when you order catering for your next get-together by calling Lee’s Chicken Restaurant. For over 75 years, this local restaurant has offered delicious wings, fried chicken, burgers, seafood, and more, becoming a local dining legend. Have a look at their menu online, or call (402) 477-4339 to place an order.