Legendary Maine Brewpub Named State’s Best Destination for Chicken Wings

There’s a lot of division in America right now, and frankly, there seems to be no end to much of it.

However, I'm not here to talk about boring things like politics or how bad bro-country music is. I'm here to talk about something most Americans actually agree on—a topic where the majority of us come together and celebrate. What is this magical topic, you ask? I'm talking about the deliciousness of the almighty chicken wing, one of the true heavyweights in the food game.

Who doesn’t love devouring a perfectly fried, smoked, or grilled wing? Maybe it's oozing with sauce or perfectly dry-seasoned. Maybe it’s a buffalo wing or Thai chili. The versatility of this wondrous vessel is endless.

Where are the Best Chicken Wings in Maine?

With wing popularity seemingly at an all-time high, it's no surprise to see more and more articles devoted to the popular poultry snack. This includes an list from the popular folks over at Cheapism. They decided to put this list together, highlighting one wing restaurant from every state. It's a list of chicken wing perfection. Maine's selection was the iconic Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub.

Gritty McDuff’s (or “Gritty’s”) has been a Maine staple ever since opening its first brewpub in Portland in 1988. Gritty’s has since opened two more locations, and all are welcoming spots for everyone, including families.

Gritty’s is also known for being a major influence in the rise of craft beer’s popularity. It was one of the very first craft breweries in Maine—a state now synonymous with the industry.

Gritty McDuff's is More than Just Delicious Beer

But Gritty’s is much more than beer. The food menu is outstanding. Burgers, sandwiches, legendary chicken fingers, and delicious nachos are just some of the highlights at this iconic joint. However, it's the delicious chicken wings that truly take the cake.

The perfectly cooked wings come in a variety of flavors, including a few that utilize the brewpub’s famous beer. I’m not lying when I say there’s a flavor for everyone when it comes to these tasty treats.

But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s an excerpt from Cheapism’s article explaining why Gritty’s claimed the top spot for Maine wing superiority:

Gritty’s treats its customers to wings tossed in Buffalo, Thai chili, teriyaki, smoky barbecue, garlic parmesan, and cinnamon chipotle or Cajun dry rubs. We’re partial to the beer in the barbecue sauce and the simplicity of a salt-and-vinegar rub.

That beer would be Gritty’s Black Fly Stout, which pairs perfectly with barbecue sauce. It’s like the beer was specifically designed for wings.

READ MORE: 30 Under-the-Radar Breweries in Maine That You Need to Try

Welp, now I’m ready to devour some wings. Looks like it’s time to make a trip to Portland or Auburn and grab some Gritty’s wings for the holiday season.

Congrats to Gritty’s on the honor. It’s always great to see a small Maine business get the recognition it deserves.