The home of the original buffalo wing? No questions asked; visiting the Anchor Bar in Buffalo made it on my bucket list immediately. The more difficult challenge — when would I ever be (372 miles away from home) in Buffalo?
While planning a road trip to Toronto, it became clear that passing through Buffalo was inevitable. Bingo. My chance had finally arrived. There was no chance I was going to blow this opportunity. It’s happening.
Pulling up to the Anchor Bar on Main Street does not disappoint — the free-standing building is decked out with designs of hot wings, celery, and Buffalo sports team logos. Plus, there’s a parking lot. First impressions seem promising.
The inside continues to deliver with all sorts of interesting decor from ceiling-mounted motorcycles, license plates, figurines, awards, a pay phone and plenty of TVs. In addition to a small gift shop, I’m surprised to discover all sorts of hidden rooms, nooks and crannies. In the best way possible, the place is no-frills while also having lots of details and character.
Grabbing a menu and bar stool, it’s time to get to business. While there are 12 different flavors of wings, ordering 10 original (medium) felt like the no-brainer.
They arrive quickly and, by all metrics, including size, flavor, quality, and preparation, these wings do not disappoint — in fact, they’re great.
It’s not 100% necessary to ask this question, but are Anchor Bar’s the best wings in the world, as the menu suggests? There certainly is some stiff competition out there. Places like J Timothys Taverne or my hometown favorite Tavern on the Hill in Philadelphia come to mind as distinct competitors. I’m not sure these Anchor Bar wings would be my personal #1, but they should definitely be in the discussion as a top wing.
Bonus: Now, if you told me I would also discover and order something called the “Original Anchor Bar Spicy Hot Chicken Wing Soup”, which was a recommended menu item, I’m not sure I would have believed you! But I was not going to waste my chance.
While this soup was intriguing and fun to try, it did not bring much flavor to the table. It was almost like a chicken pot pie soup but with only chicken. I’m glad I tried it, but I’d explore other menu items next time…
And hopefully there is a next time!
I’d love to spend many nights here, enjoy the surely rowdy sports crowds, and take in the unique vibes (and delicious wings) at this Buffalo institution. We thank you for your service to this nation and all of mankind, Anchor Bar. You are a hero.
What the Anchor Bar looks like after a lot to drink!:
