The city of Tampa is obsessed with its chicken wings, and our readers are particular about where they’ll order them from. A recent podcast interview had us craving a plate from the local legend that is Hattrick’s Tavern. But of course, this isn’t always about us. We turn to our followers to figure the best chicken wings Tampa has to offer. The flavor profiles range from sweet and savory, to spicy, with some well known Tampa restaurants taking clear top spots while other under-the-radar Tampa hubs got some much deserved recognition.
If you’re looking for the best wings in Tampa, this is the quick list of spots our readers most recommend. As always, we encourage everyone to get out and eat local. Our local restaurants can always use that boost. Did we miss your favorite hub? Shoot us a DM and let us know what chicken wing spot in Tampa we need to try next, and maybe you’ll see it on our next list.
9 must-try chicken wing spots in Tampa
Hattricks
107 S Franklin St
Hattrick’s Tavern was the number one most recommended chicken wing spot in the city from our readers. Try their classic, down-home Shake & Bake or original Buffalo. We’re here for the Shake & Bake personally. The menu features mild, medium, lightning, IRA, BBQ, or garlic parmesan flavors. A lot of our readers recommended trying them Dave’s Way: Lightning flavor with Shake & Bake and re-tossed in garlic parmesan.
Duff’s Famous Wings
5119 N Nebraska Ave
Duff’s is a relative newcomer to Tampa Bay, but its legacy of crafting Buffalo wings goes back decades. The restaurant got its start in 1946 when Louise Duffney opened a small tavern in Amherst, N.Y. By 1969, the bar had added chicken wings to the menu, quickly earning a reputation for some of the best in Buffalo. As demand grew, the name “Duff’s Famous Wings” became official in 1985, cementing its status as a go-to spot for authentic Buffalo-style wings.
Blind Goat
4106 Henderson Blvd
“The baked wings at The Blind Goat are to die for!” That’s the average 5-star review sentiment from those who have enjoyed the baked wings at this local establishment. The buffalo sauce is perfectly spicy and super flavorful. It gives a kick, but still tame enough that most diners can dig in and enjoy. If you’re looking for a fun hangout spot with great service and drinks, this should be your new go-to.
Lee’s Grocery
2210 N. Central Ave
Lee’s Grocery is a local spot that consistently comes up when we discuss the best pizza Tampa has to offer. It hit again when we went to our followers looking for good wing joints. Two of the most popular varieties, according to our readers, include garlic parmesan and sweet chili. You can order up to 10 wings for $15.99 and pair them with one of their award-winning stone-baked pizzas. I want to call this a hidden gem, but with the amount of love that pours out for Lee’s, I’d say this more like a Tampa resident staple.
Rain Bistro
2592 E Bearss Ave
If you are REALLY hungry, then we recommend treating yourself to Rain Bistro’s “Fried Crunch Wings.” It’s as good as it sounds. Queue the ASMR. Their naked wings are dressed with a Chinese garlic sauce and garnished with sesame seeds. Let this be your sign to dine here soon.
SauceyyFangerz
5601 E Hillsborough Ave
Ever wanted to try strawberry tenders with baked mac and cheese? How about garlic parm wings with jumbo Philly cheesesteak egg rolls? SauceyyFangerz has it all. Their Instagram feed alone will make you want to eat your phone.
Wicked Oak
6607 N Florida Ave
Head out to Seminole Heights for some dang good BBQ. Wicked Oak is a local success story, and it all begins with the amount of TLC the owner puts into every dish. This hub serves up slow-smoked wings that are then fried for a little extra “somethin’ somethin.’” You need to add Wicked Oak’s guava sauce to these wings for the perfect 813 platter.
Top Shelf Sports Lounge
401 E Jackson St #101
All the wings at Top Shelf are marinated overnight in mojo, garlic, and oregano then grilled to perfection. It gives their wings a distinctive taste.
Walter’s Press Box Sports Emporium
222 S Dale Mabry Hwy
The Press Box has served Tampa since 1978 and folks have been raving about their wings since day 1. They also offer $1 wings every Tuesday, making it a great deal for those looking for a good value. They even offer a super tasty fried sweet and sour chicken wing.
Our friends at i Love the ‘Burg also just put together a list of the best wing spots in St. Pete in case you’re heading over the Howard Frankland Bridge anytime soon.
