Best of 11 buffalo wings in Madison
Craving buffalo wings in Madison? This city’s got everything from spicy classics to inventive flavors, perfect for a game night or late-night cravings. Whether you’re into crispy, saucy, or extra hot, buffalo wings in Madison deliver plenty of crunch and bold taste, keeping locals and visitors coming back for more.
1. Erin's Snug Irish Pub and Restaurant
Authentic Irish Pub with a wide variety of handcrafted wings and hearty comfort food

The wings at Erin’s Snug Irish Pub stand out for their crisp texture and rich flavor, expertly cooked to retain heat and freshness. The Gaelic Thunder sauce delivers a balanced spice that enhances the overall experience, making each bite satisfying. The portion size is generous, ensuring a hearty snack or appetizer, and the wings are consistently served hot, maintaining their appealing crunch.
Known for its diverse menu, Erin's Snug Irish Pub excels in craftmanship, especially with its buffalo chicken wings that are prepared from scratch with handmade batters and sauces. These wings have become a highlight, showcasing quality ingredients and attention to detail. Their flavorful profile and perfect consistency make them a must-try item for wing enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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2. Tipsy Cow
Vibrant bar & grill near Capitol with bold flavors and cozy atmosphere.

The buffalo chicken sandwich stands out with its inventive flavor and noticeably high quality, offering a delightful twist that surpasses expectations. The cozy ambiance creates a welcoming environment, ideal for intimate gatherings or casual catch-ups with friends. The menu boasts an array of well-executed comfort foods, including Memphis seasoned tots, a perfectly grilled cheese, and standout fried cheese curds that are crispy and flavorful. Located near the capitol building, the lively setting invites visitors to enjoy both the food and a stroll in an energetic, walkable neighborhood filled with charm and interest.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
3. Dave's Hot Chicken
Perfectly balanced spice and flavor with massive, tasty tenders that satisfy every heat level.

The Reaper level offers an intense heat that truly challenges even seasoned spicy food fans, yet the flavor remains remarkably compelling. It’s a bold test of endurance, but the smoky, savory notes balance the fiery intensity for a satisfying experience. Dave’s Hot Chicken consistently hits the mark for those craving genuine heat accompanied by delicious taste, with each bite delivering a harmonious blend of spice and flavor. The tenders are generously sized, crispy on the outside, moist on the inside, and elevate the overall enjoyment. The varied spice levels—from mild to Reaper—ensure there's a fiery option for everyone.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. Stadium Takeout
Delicious, crispy buffalo wings with a welcoming, friendly atmosphere every visit.

Stadium Takeout delivers a satisfying array of classic American favorites, from savory beef sandwiches to flavorful Chicago dogs that hit the spot. The quality of the food is evident in each carefully prepared bite, making it a great choice for a quick, hearty meal. The establishment's charm is amplified by its friendly staff, whose welcoming attitude adds a warm, inviting vibe to the dining experience. The atmosphere benefits greatly from the staff’s cute and approachable demeanor, creating a sense of comfort and hospitality that encourages repeat visits. Overall, a dependable spot for satisfying comfort food with a personable touch.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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5. Buffalo Wild Wings
Your go-to spot for wings, sports, and a lively dining experience.

This venue offers an impressive array of features—large TVs and a selection of premium sodas—making it an appealing spot for sports enthusiasts. Its location in the mall food court adds convenience, especially for catching MMA bouts or Bucks games streamed on ESPN. The menu's standout options are the Bone-in Chicken Wings served with carrots and celery, along with traditional and boneless wings, which resonate well with customers seeking hearty, classic flavors. Despite some competition, the ambiance and media setup make it a popular choice for fans wanting to combine food with live sports action.
While the quality of the wings is generally praised, the overall experience is somewhat overshadowed by the pricing of the sodas and the casual setting. The establishment’s focus on sports coverage and supporting menu items ensures it remains a favored destination for patrons wanting a quick bite during game days. The variety of wing styles and sides caters well to different tastes, securing its reputation as a reliable go-to for wing lovers in a lively, sporting environment.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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6. Wings Over Madison
Bold flavors and crispy fries make Wings Over Madison a must-try wing spot!

The pairing of jet fuel and Cajun BBQ creates an unexpectedly harmonious flavor blend that elevates the eating experience. Garlic Parmesan stands out as an outstanding choice, offering a rich, savory complement to the bold flavors. The teriyaki and buffalo sauces add variety, each delivering a robust punch that satisfies different cravings. Waffle fries impress with their crispiness and freshness, providing a perfect side to the main dishes. Although there was a wait, it was justified by the fresh preparation and high-quality ingredients, making every bite satisfying and memorable.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
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7. Licari's Bar & Grill
A welcoming dive bar with great food, good prices, and a relaxed atmosphere.

The wings stand out as a crowd favorite, complemented by friendly, efficient bartenders who handle orders swiftly. Service quality is exceptional, with staff eager to cater to special requests and attentive to every detail, enhancing the overall experience. The venue combines a relaxed, dive bar atmosphere with impressive offerings, blending good prices and diverse options for food and drinks. The space is notably clean, featuring outdoor seating that adds to its charm. With sports on TV, a strong selection of beers, and an inviting vibe, it consistently delivers a top-tier experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Hooters
Home of perfectly cooked wings with a welcoming sports bar atmosphere.

The standout feature of this establishment is its expertly prepared boneless wings and fish, delivering consistent quality that satisfies both casual diners and wing enthusiasts. The inviting, cozy ambiance creates a welcoming environment, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The kitchen’s precision in cooking ensures tender, flavorful wings that keep patrons returning for more. Servers play a key role in elevating the experience, providing attentive and friendly service that complements the tasty offerings. Popular choices among guests include the classic Hooters Original Style Wings and the satisfying Boneless Wings Platter, showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to satisfying wing cravings.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
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9. McGee's Chicken
Spot for addictive buffalo wings and classic fried chicken with a flavorful twist

McGee's Chicken offers a menu featuring fried chicken, beef, and fried catfish, drawing attention for its flavorful fried chicken. Diners often mention the relaxed and friendly service atmosphere as a positive aspect, contributing to an overall pleasant dining experience. The variety on the menu caters well to those seeking classic Southern-style comfort food, with particular appreciation for the crispy, well-prepared chicken.
However, opinions diverge regarding the seasoning and consistency of the dishes. While many enjoy the bold, savory flavors, some find the seasoning either too mild or overly salty, leading to a mixed reception. Additionally, the speed and consistency of service appear variable; some reviews note prompt attention, whereas others report slower, less reliable service. These factors create a somewhat uneven experience, balancing the strengths of the food against occasional drawbacks.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
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10. Oakcrest Tavern
A cozy neighborhood tavern known for top-notch wings and warm hospitality.

Oakcrest Tavern stands out as a welcoming neighborhood restaurant, known especially for its Friday fish fry, which draws regular patrons. The menu extends beyond seafood, featuring bar favorites like wings that receive consistent praise for their flavor and preparation. The atmosphere combines a friendly staff with a lively local crowd, creating a comfortable and engaging dining experience.
The tavern’s reputation for quality food complements its inviting setting, making it a go-to spot for casual meals. Although not always explicitly highlighted, the wings are implied to be a solid choice, likely benefiting from the same attention to taste as other menu items. This blend of good food, friendly service, and community vibe positions Oakcrest Tavern as a reliable option for both regular visits and social gatherings.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- Affordable Nightlife
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Late Night
11. Off Broadway Drafthouse
Unique brew pub with fresh, garden-grown veggies and a diverse menu.

Off Broadway Drafthouse impresses with a diverse menu featuring standout dishes like crispy burgers, golden fries, and flavorful perch. The Airway Chicken Wings are particularly popular, perfectly cooked and packed with zest. The butternut squash soup offers a comforting, creamy experience that delights the palate, while the Abbandanza Veg sandwich boasts a rich blend of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. House-made fries add a satisfying crunch, complementing the hearty burger special that continues to garner praise. Overall, the restaurant provides a satisfying mix of classic favorites and inventive options.
The culinary offerings at Off Broadway Drafthouse emphasize quality and flavor, making it a go-to spot for varied tastes. The menu's highlights include well-executed wings, a comforting squash soup, and veggie-based sandwiches bursting with flavor. The house-made fries offer a crispy, flavorful side, perfect alongside their signature burgers. The burger special stands out for its juicy, expertly crafted patty and unique toppings, elevating the dining experience. This combination of thoughtful preparation and diverse options ensures a visit that appeals to both casual diners and food enthusiasts alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
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