Anchor Bar

America’s Must-Try Regional Dishes

"The birthplace of Buffalo wings (1964) and a must-visit for first-timers who want to experience the original iteration of the city’s signature dish." - Stephanie Gravalese

Anchor Bar - Review - Downtown - Buffalo - The Infatuation

"In 1964, a bartender at the now-famous Anchor Bar threw together a creative dish for some friends with the munchies. Using chicken wings that were typically discarded for stock, he deep-fried them and tossed them in a secret sauce made of cayenne, vinegar, and butter. The wings were an instant hit and became a Buffalo legend, rippling into every bar and pizzeria in the city. Legends deserve respect, and Anchor Bar is undeniably an institution in Buffalo. While its reputation has been diluted by national expansion—and many locals might tell you to skip it, and go to these spots instead—there’s still value in visiting the original location to see where it all began. The wings here lean vinegary and may lack some juiciness, but hey, you’re here for the history and the vibes. Skip the rest of the menu (no need for spaghetti and meatballs) and stick to what you came for: wings and a cold beer. And if you can, avoid the airport location entirely. photo credit: James Pici photo credit: James Pici photo credit: James Pici Pause Unmute" - David Neimanis

An Accidental Stroke of Genius

"In Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s, the Anchor Bar supposedly received a shipment of chicken wings— at that time practically given away as a throwaway cut. However, fried and served with hot sauce, they became a hit, and the city's name would forever be associated with buffalo wings, beloved in sports bars across America." - MICHELIN Guide Thailand

"No trip to Buffalo would be complete without a stop at Anchor Bar. Open since 1964, this is where Teressa Bellissimo served the city’s very first chicken wings. While the restaurant also offers a full menu of salads, sandwiches, and fish fries, you’re here for the wings, which come in mild, medium, hot, and barbecue varieties, plus a suicidal sauce for spice fiends. Good news if you’re craving them when you’re home—Anchor Bar has more than a dozen locations and even ships its wings country-wide."

How Buffalo’s Beef on Weck Became an Icon in Upstate New York | Eater

"The birthplace of Buffalo wings, credited to Teressa Bellissimo in 1964, and widely recognized for originating the city’s most famous culinary export." - Jessica Kelly