When it comes to wings in Chicago, there are plenty of options to choose from, but there’s a clear distinction between good wings and great wings. One place that stands out is Woodie’s, which recently earned the title of Best Overall at WingOut.
Woodie’s won the People’s Choice award for Best Overall for its Sticky Sesame Wings, marking the fourth consecutive year it has taken home this honor. It also won the Judge’s Choice award for Best Overall, again for the Sticky Sesame Wings. So, what makes these wings so special?
4-time WingOut champion Woodie’s takes Best Overall in Chicago
The preparation process for the wings is quite extensive, taking 36 hours.
Unlike many sports bars that opt for jumbo wings, Woodie’s uses medium-sized wings because their culinary team believes they cook more consistently and retain more juiciness.
The wings are smoked over hickory and applewood for approximately two hours, coated in a proprietary spice rub, and then undergo Woodie’s signature double-fry method.
During the first fry, the wings are lightly glazed in Buffalo sauce before being fried again, which crisps the skin and locks in flavor. Finally, they are tossed in the finishing sauce.
The sauce selection at Woodie’s is impressive, featuring 11 core sauces and rubs, from the award-winning Sticky Sesame to classic Buffalo, garlic parmesan, sriracha soy, and chimichurri. They also offer a rotating Sauce of the Month, allowing the culinary team to get creative.
And if you’re looking for wings—particularly during football season—Woodie’s has introduced the “Game Day Starters” deal. For $19.95, guests can enjoy a shareable spread that includes boneless wings, crispy pork fries, Bavarian pretzels, chips and salsa, and classic fries, along with salsa, beer cheese, and ranch for dipping.
