YP Likes: Game Day Wings

In a year when everything has changed, one thing remains the same: our love of football, and all the things that go with it. A saucy chicken wing is a gameday staple that can make even the worst defensive strategy seem spicy. But let’s not make this political — whether you’re a fan of bone-in or bone-out — ranch is the ONLY dipping sauce worth mentioning in this post. Now that we’ve cleared that up, here are our top picks for wings in Lincoln. 

N Zone

Do not sleep on this long-time local staple for all things game day. Known by many as the best wings in town, N Zone has an extensive line of custom sauce flavors. My personal go-to is the teriyaki and sweet chili. What really puts this underground (literally) sport-fan favorite at the top of this list is their ranch seasoned fries — to. die. for. Lastly, if you want to really eat like a local, order your wings bone-in and grilled and be prepared to bathe in flavor. 

Rutabagas Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a non-meat alternative to wings for your home-gating, look no further than Rutabagas. Their cauliflower wings are flavorful and robust — my favorite is the tangy BBQ, but you can also kick it up a notch with the spicy Buffalo hot sauce. Not only are these wings a great choice for non-meat-eaters in your household, they’re also vegan. The dipping sauce — don’t skip it! — is a creamy cashew ranch. Other appetizer favorites from Rutabagas include their onion rings, nachos (option of jackfruit, which is a meatless variation of pulled pork, or seasoned ground mushrooms) and tots and Double Banger sauce. 

Buffalo Wild Wings

To me, Buffalo Wild Wings — or “B-Dubs” — is a classic. Whether dining in to watch the game with a beer or two, or ordering take out, I always know what to expect. Great sauces and seasonings for wings, but also a full menu! I always get onion rings, then a mix of sweet and spicy wings and a Blue Moon with an orange slice. You can count on BWW for the classic wings experience on game day.

Wings & Rings

I became a big fan of Wings & Rings during the pandemic, specifically because of their multi-person meals. Their menu options are almost endless, so if you’re buying for a appropriately-sized crowd (safety first, everyone!) don’t worry about someone wanting a hamburger and another wings. Wings & Rings will have you covered. Though not technically wings, my favorite is their grilled tenders with one of their several dipping sauces. Pro tip: order their pretzel bites — you won’t regret getting them! Can it get any better? Yes it can, because they also have beer available for pick-up!

Watering Hole

There’s nothing better than good old-fashioned wings and the best place for wings in Lincoln is the Watering Hole. The Watering Hole features 14 sauce options such as mango habanero, blackberry bbq, or old bay seasoned. You can also get the wings grilled, which is a personal favorite of mine. If wings aren’t your thing, the Watering Hole also has burgers, sandwiches and salads along with fantastic appetizers and sides.