Where to Find the Best Buffalo Wings in Atlanta

Atlanta takes its wings seriously. From classic Buffalo flats and drums to creative flavors with a Southern twist, you can find standout chicken wings in almost every part of the city. Whether you live in Atlanta or you’re just here for a weekend, knowing where to get the best Buffalo wings in Atlanta can turn a regular night out into something you plan your week around.

Below is a practical, locally focused guide to help you find top-tier Buffalo wings, what styles to expect in different neighborhoods, and how to order like a local.

What “Best Buffalo Wings” Means in Atlanta

When people in Atlanta talk about great wings, they usually care about:

  • Crispiness: Skin that stays crisp even when coated in sauce.
  • Sauce balance: True Buffalo sauce is a mix of hot sauce and butter, with a tangy, slightly vinegary bite.
  • Meat quality: Juicy inside, not dried out or overly fatty.
  • Consistency: You get the same quality whether it’s a slow Tuesday or a packed game day.
  • Vibe and convenience: Neighborhood feel, quick takeout, or a spot with plenty of TVs for watching the game.

In Atlanta, you’ll see three broad categories:

  1. Sports bars and pubs – Great for watching the Falcons, Hawks, or college games.
  2. Wing-focused spots – Places where wings are the star of the menu.
  3. Neighborhood bars and grills – Casual, local favorites that often surprise people with excellent Buffalo wings.

Classic Sports Bars With Great Buffalo Wings

If you want the full game-day experience with reliably good wings, these types of Atlanta spots are strong options.

Midtown, Downtown, and Nearby

Stats Brewpub – Downtown (near Centennial Olympic Park)
A popular stop before and after games at State Farm Arena or Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Known for:

  • Plenty of TVs and a sports-heavy atmosphere
  • Buffalo wings with a traditional tangy, buttery sauce
  • Easy access from MARTA Five Points or GWCC stations

Hudson Grille – Multiple Locations (e.g., Midtown, Sandy Springs)
A well-known local sports bar brand in the Atlanta area. People often go here for:

  • Traditional and boneless Buffalo wings with customizable heat
  • Plentiful seating and big screens for watching big games
  • Large-group friendliness, especially in Midtown and Sandy Springs

The Nook on Piedmont Park – Midtown (Monroe Dr. NE)
Right on the edge of Piedmont Park, this spot combines park views with:

  • Buffalo-style wings plus other creative wing sauces
  • A cozy, neighborhood-bar feel
  • Easy stop for anyone spending the day in Midtown or at the park

Wing-Centered Spots Known for Buffalo Flavor

Atlanta has many restaurants that build their menu around wings. These are often locals’ go-to options for takeout Buffalo wings or casual dine-in.

Intown and Eastside

J.R. Crickets – Multiple Atlanta Locations (e.g., Downtown, East Point, Cascade)
A long-standing name in Atlanta’s wing scene. While many people know them for unique flavors, they also serve:

  • Classic Buffalo wings in varying heat levels
  • Late-night hours at some locations
  • A loyal local following, especially near Downtown and the Westside

American Deli – Citywide (mall food courts and strip centers)
Found in many neighborhoods across Atlanta, including Downtown, West End, and Southwest Atlanta. Known for:

  • Straightforward Buffalo wings (mild, medium, hot, extra hot)
  • Combo meals that pair wings with fries and a drink
  • Convenience and consistency if you’re looking for quick, casual wings

Atlanta Wing Factory– Buckhead/Sandy Springs Area
A wing-focused shop typical of North Atlanta, often offering:

  • Classic Buffalo plus dry rub and specialty sauces
  • Takeout-friendly packaging that keeps wings crisp
  • Easy access if you live or are staying near Buckhead, Chastain, or Sandy Springs

(Names and exact menus can vary; check the current offerings of locations near you.)

Neighborhood Bars & Grills With Solid Buffalo Wings

Some of Atlanta’s best Buffalo wings are served in laid-back neighborhood spots that don’t always make national lists but are beloved locally.

Intown Neighborhoods

Virginia-Highland area
Many local bars and grills in this neighborhood offer:

  • House Buffalo sauces with a slightly sweeter or spicier twist
  • Patio seating ideal for a casual night out
  • A strong mix of craft beer and bar food

Grant Park / Summerhill
Close to the stadiums and Georgia State campus, you’ll often find:

  • Sports-friendly bars with Buffalo wing specials on game days
  • Happy-hour deals for wings and beer
  • Walkable locations for residents and visitors staying near Downtown

Westside & Upper Westside

Around the West Midtown area, several restaurants and brewpubs offer:

  • Buffalo wings as part of a larger bar menu
  • Outdoor seating and modern, industrial-style interiors
  • Easy access from Marietta St. NW and Howell Mill Rd. NW

If you’re already heading to the Westside for breweries or dinner, adding a stop for Buffalo wings is simple.

How to Order Buffalo Wings Like a Local in Atlanta

Buffalo wings might seem straightforward, but how you order can make a big difference.

1. Choose Flats, Drums, or Mix

In many Atlanta wing spots, you can request:

  • All flats – Popular for people who prefer more even meat and skin.
  • All drums – A bit meatier and easier to hold.
  • Mixed – The standard order.

Some places may charge extra for all flats or all drums, so it’s worth asking.

2. Pick Your Heat Level

Traditional Buffalo sauce usually comes in:

  • Mild – More buttery and tangy than spicy.
  • Medium – A noticeable kick without being overwhelming.
  • Hot or Extra Hot – For people who want real heat.

In Atlanta, it’s common to see house-specific wording like “Atomic,” “Fire,” or “XXX Hot.” If you’re not sure, start at medium and adjust next time.

3. Decide on Bone-In vs. Boneless

  • Bone-in wings are more traditional and usually hold up better to Buffalo sauce.
  • Boneless wings are easier to eat but closer to chicken tenders in texture.

Most Atlanta locals aiming for “the best Buffalo wings” tend to go bone-in for flavor and crispiness.

4. Sauce on or Sauce on the Side

Especially for takeout or delivery, many Atlantans ask for:

  • Sauce on the side if they’re worried about wings getting soggy.
  • Extra crispy or fried hard for more crunch, especially on heavily sauced wings.

Buffalo Wings Around Major Atlanta Landmarks

If you’re visiting and staying near a key area, here’s what to expect.

Near Mercedes-Benz Stadium & State Farm Arena

Within a short drive or walk, you’ll typically find:

  • Sports bars offering Buffalo wings and other game-day fare
  • Quick-service wing spots great for takeout before or after events
  • Bars that stay open later on event nights

Parking can be busy during games or concerts, so walking from MARTA stations (like GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center) is often easier.

Around Midtown & Piedmont Park

Midtown offers:

  • Pubs with Buffalo wings plus large beer selections
  • Brunch spots that also serve wings (sometimes as a side with waffles or fries)
  • Patio seating near Piedmont Park for a casual afternoon

If you’re staying in a Midtown hotel, it’s easy to find walkable options for wings.

Near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

South of the city, around College Park and East Point, you can typically find:

  • Local wing chains and independent shops offering Buffalo wings for takeout
  • Spots open late, convenient if you land on an evening flight
  • Straightforward menus focusing on wings, fries, and simple sides

Delivery and Takeout Tips for Buffalo Wings in Atlanta

If you’d rather eat at home, most Atlanta wing spots and sports bars offer pickup, and many partner with delivery apps.

To keep Buffalo wings from getting soggy:

  • Ask for sauce on the side if you’re more than 15–20 minutes away.
  • Request extra crispy or fried hard.
  • Open the container for a minute or two when it arrives to let steam escape before closing again.

If you live in a dense area like Midtown, Buckhead, Virginia-Highland, or West Midtown, you’ll likely have multiple Buffalo wing options available for delivery at almost any hour of the day.

Simple Buffalo Wing Style Guide for Atlanta Diners

Here is a quick reference to the most common choices you’ll see:

OptionWhat It Means in AtlantaWhen to Choose It
Traditional BuffaloHot sauce + butter, tangy, slightly vinegaryYou want classic wings, not sweet or smoky
Mild BuffaloSame flavor, less heatFor kids or anyone sensitive to spice
Medium BuffaloNoticeable heat, balanced flavorSafe middle ground for most people
Hot / Extra HotStrong heat, may overshadow some flavorIf you enjoy a spicy challenge
Bone-InClassic flats and drums, juicierWhen you care most about flavor and texture
BonelessBreaded white meat pieces, easier to eatOffice lunches, driving, or quick snacks
Extra CrispyLonger fry time, crunchier skinIf you like crunch or are ordering for delivery
Sauce on the SideWings arrive dry with Buffalo sauce separatelyTo avoid sogginess or adjust the amount yourself

How to Find Great Buffalo Wings Near Your Part of Atlanta

Because new places open and menus change, a practical approach is:

  1. Search specifically for “Buffalo wings” plus your neighborhood
    For example: “Buffalo wings East Atlanta,” “Buffalo wings Buckhead,” “Buffalo wings West End.”

  2. Check for photos of wings, not just the menu
    Crisp skin and well-coated wings are usually visible in recent photos.

  3. Scan reviews for key phrases
    Look for terms like “crispy,” “not soggy,” “good heat,” “traditional Buffalo,” and “fried hard.”

  4. Try a small combo first
    Order a smaller portion of Buffalo wings to test a new spot before making it your game-day staple.

When Buffalo Wings Fit Best Into Your Atlanta Plans

People in Atlanta often turn to Buffalo wings for:

  • Game days – Falcons, Hawks, Braves, Atlanta United, college football, and March Madness.
  • Casual nights out – Meeting friends at a bar in Midtown, Buckhead, or the Westside.
  • Takeout evenings – Ordering wings and fries to watch a movie or game at home.
  • Late-night food – Many wing spots stay open later than full-service restaurants.

No matter which part of the city you’re in, you’re usually not far from a place serving Buffalo wings. Focus on crispiness, sauce quality, and consistency, and you’ll quickly find the best Buffalo wings in Atlanta for your taste and your neighborhood.