The Controversy Surrounding the Invention of Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings, a beloved American snack enjoyed worldwide, have sparked a heated debate over their true origins. With deep-rooted claims coming from several establishments, the question of who invented these spicy chicken morsels continues to intrigue both food enthusiasts and historians. In this article, we delve into the various versions of the story behind this crispy, saucy delight.

Teressa Bellissimo of the Anchor Bar

One of the most significant claims of the Buffalo wing's origin is the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. In 1964, Teressa Bellissimo, the owner of the bar with her husband Frank, is said to have created the recipe. According to the story, Bellissimo came up with the idea in a moment of culinary necessity: as a substitute for some chicken, she deep-fried chicken wings and drizzled them with a homemade hot sauce. This simple creation quickly gained popularity and eventually gave birth to the iconic dish known as Buffalo wings.

John Young and Wings 'n Things

A different version of the story involves John Young, who claims to have created the wings at a restaurant he owned called Wings 'n Things in Buffalo. According to Young, he heard about a similar spicy sauce called "Mambo Sauce" at a restaurant in Washington, D.C., which sparked his own experimentation in Buffalo. The sauce he developed was very similar to what he heard about, and he went on to serve the wings with his own version. Young's claim is supported by his attention to detail, including the name of the sauce.

Mumbo Sauce and Argia B's

Another layer of complexity is added by Mumbo Sauce, which is believed to have originated in a Washington, D.C., restaurant called Wings 'n Things. This sauce, said to have been invented in the 1960s, was also known as Mambo Sauce. However, there are allegations that a Chicago restaurant chain, Argia B's, was the first to market deep-fried wings with a vinegar-based pepper sauce in 1957. Argia B's has even taken legal action to defend their claim, but the Chicago court system, notorious for its corruption, adds an interesting twist to the story.

Origins and Historical Context

Deep-fried wings, the cooking method of choice for Buffalo wings, has a history that predates the famous wing that became synonymous with New York. The McIlhenny Company in Louisiana began bottling Tabasco sauce in 1840, which gave rise to the concept of fried chicken in spicy sauces. It's plausible that variations of this dish were being enjoyed long before the Buffalo wing became a culinary sensation.

The Current Standing

While the Anchor Bar remains the most well-known origin story for Buffalo wings, it is likely that the dish has roots in Southern cuisine. The debate over who invented the wings is a reflection of the rich culinary past and vibrant food culture of the Buffalo area. As we continue to explore the history of this iconic dish, it's clear that the Buffalo wing's origin story is a fascinating tale of innovation, inspired by local tastes and culinary traditions.

Conclusion

The origin of the Buffalo wing is a mystery wrapped in layers of culinary history and local pride. Whether it was Teressa Bellissimo of the Anchor Bar, John Young of Wings 'n Things, or even the creators of Mumbo Sauce and Argia B's, the story of the Buffalo wing remains a subject of contention. As a beloved American icon, the Buffalo wing embodies the spirit of creativity and innovation that characterizes the culinary landscape of the United States.