
Anchor Bar
Home of the original Buffalo chicken wing, Anchor Bar offers a unique dining experience with a nostalgic atmosphere and a taste of culinary history.

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Must-see attractions
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Anchor Bar

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home of the original Buffalo chicken wing, Anchor Bar offers a unique dining experience with a nostalgic atmosphere and a taste of culinary history.
"It's a must-try if you want to eat a part of history, with great flavor and kind service."
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and potential delays by visiting during less busy times.
Don't miss the original wings
For an authentic taste, be sure to try the original medium flavor buffalo wings.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American, Italian
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Birthplace of Buffalo Wings
Savor the original Buffalo chicken wings, invented here in 1964. A true taste of culinary history!

Nostalgic Atmosphere
Dine surrounded by vintage motorcycles and memorabilia, creating a unique and memorable dining experience.

Beyond the Wings
Explore other local favorites like Beef on Weck and delicious Italian fare, offering a diverse menu.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and potential delays by visiting during less busy times.
Don't miss the original wings
For an authentic taste, be sure to try the original medium flavor buffalo wings.
Try other local specialties
Explore menu items like potato skins and Beef on Weck for additional local flavors.
Be patient with service
Service can be slow during peak times; consider visiting during off-peak hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit during off-peak hours
Avoid crowds and potential delays by visiting during less busy times.
Don't miss the original wings
For an authentic taste, be sure to try the original medium flavor buffalo wings.
Try other local specialties
Explore menu items like potato skins and Beef on Weck for additional local flavors.
Be patient with service
Service can be slow during peak times; consider visiting during off-peak hours.
Ranch for your wings?
While traditional, some diners opt for ranch dressing with their wings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Anchor Bar is celebrated as the birthplace of the Buffalo chicken wing, drawing visitors for a taste of history. While many rave about the iconic wings and the nostalgic atmosphere filled with memorabilia, some reviews mention inconsistencies in food quality and service, particularly during busy periods. However, the unique vibe and historical significance often outweigh minor critiques for many patrons.
"Delish wings at the original house of buffalo wings. Came when it was just hubby and I and now with the kids. Still great flavor and kind service. We had a great time. Wings came out piping hot and fast. Definitely a must try if you want to eat a part of history."
Janet Dang
"Came to Anchor Bar in Buffalo after hearing a lot of hype online – was visiting from Ontario and wanted to try something special. As soon as I walked in, I was like wow. the place looked awesome! Super cool vibe, cozy setup, and even had motorcycles mounted on the walls – some of my favorites too. Definitely a great spot to hang out with friends or family over a few drinks.
Our server was amazing – even though she was handling a bunch of tables, she was super friendly and helpful. Honestly, one of the best parts of the visit!
Now the food… this is where things got a bit mixed. My friend, a total wing lover, said the wings were the best she’s ever had – and she meant it. So happy for her!
But I’m a vegetarian, so I went with their large white pizza. Unfortunately, it was a big letdown. It tasted like frozen dough reheated in the oven and just loaded with onions, tomatoes, and cheese. The flavor was really off. I usually eat 4 slices easily, even if it’s just okay – but I barely finished 2 and packed the rest. Super disappointing, especially since we planned the trip around good food.
Last visit to Buffalo we had our lunch at Imperial which was next level and I expected the same experience at Anchor.
I get that it’s mainly a wing spot (which they do really well), but I’d suggest not adding pizza to the menu if it can’t be done right. Being a vegetarian, it’s tough to find good options, and seeing great reviews made it even more confusing.
That said, I’d still come back – not for the food, but for the fun vibe, great service, and because my friend loved her wings. Also enjoyed their IPA beer. Just won’t be ordering pizza again!"
Krishna Raj
"We waited at the hostel stand for roughly 10 minutes with many other people and no host in sight. The servers were working their buttons off and one of them ran around seating people. Our server was acceptable. He didn't seem super interested in his job but it got done adequately and the food was great as always."
Stephanie Fredericksen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Anchor Bar claims to have invented the Buffalo chicken wing in 1964, making it a historic destination for wing enthusiasts.
The original medium flavor is a must-try. Other popular options include honey BBQ and garlic Parmesan.
It can get very busy, especially on weekends. While not always required, arriving during off-peak hours or being prepared for a wait is advisable.
Besides wings, diners suggest trying Beef on Weck, potato skins, and some Italian dishes like pasta.
The restaurant has a nostalgic vibe, featuring vintage motorcycles, memorabilia, and a lively bar area.
While known for wings, vegetarian options like pizza, salads, and appetizers are available. However, some reviews suggest caution with the pizza.
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Buffalo's 6 Best Restaurants New York Wining And Dining
Integral to Buffalo’s gastronomic culture, Main Street’s Anchor Bar is where Buffalo chicken wings made their big debut. Teressa Bellissimo introduced them in 1964 at the Anchor Bar and it continues to boast the ‘Best Wings in the World’ five decades later. Mrs Bellissimo’s recipe proved so wildly popular that former Mayor Stanley M. Makowski designated a ‘ National Chicken Wing Day’ in honor of this classic American favourite.
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You can get them everywhere, but I suggest Frank & Teresa's Anchor Bar. Some locals will tell you to avoid it because its not in the best neighborhood (it's not) or there are better restaurants (there are) but if you're coming here for the 1st time why not have them where they were invented???. (Anyhow, the old corner bars and restaurants in the old neighborhoods are the BEST places to get local Buffalo food).
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Getting closest to the 1964 origin story means hitting the Anchor Bar's Main Street location, although posthumous recognition is finally being given to chef and restaurateur John Young. Duff's multiple outposts make this when-in-Rome food pilgrimage relatively convenient. Gabriel's Gate in lively Allentown is another reliable wings source.
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For first timers, it’s essential to visit Anchor Bar, which claims to have invented the bar snack back in 1964. Once you’ve paid your respects at the house that Teressa Bellissimo built, though, it’s time for a wing hop.
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Some people dispute that, but many come to sample the groundbreaking invention in bar food. Try them hot for the full experience. A buffalo's head hanging on the wall is about all the atmosphere you need.
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Buffalo's oldest bar has been partially modernized and now draws a slightly younger clientele. Traditional German schnitzel is on the menu alongside…
America's best hot wings are served by The Blind Rhino of Connecticut, poultry pundits declare
Buffalo wings trace their origins to the Anchor Bar of Buffalo, N.Y., where they were first served in 1964. (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)
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Everyone knows Buffalo wings were invented in Buffalo—and any visitor must eat them at the source (just called “wings” here) at Anchor Bar, where they were invented. But there are several other local foods to eat in Buffalo too: Be sure also to try Beef on Weck (at Schwabl’s or Charlie the Butcher), sponge candy from Fowler's Chocolates or Watson's Chocolates, chicken finger subs from Jim's SteakOut, and Buffalo-style pizza, a hybrid of deep dish and New York-style with charred pepperoni cups (try it at Carbone's Pizzeria or Lovejoy Pizzeria). There are also more upscale, farm-to-table spots like Billy Club and Roost worth checking out.
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When Johnny Gibson got busy with trumpeter Georgie Holt at the Anchor Bar, Al Tinney took over the piano chair. Tinney, the consummate modernist and driving force of the historic sessions at Monroe’s Uptown House in Harlem in the forties, came to Buffalo to get out of music and sell shoes. After exploring that career option for one day, Tinney thankfully decided to share his great talent, formidable intelligence, estimable wit, and big heart with the musicians and listeners of his adopted city for the rest of his life.
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Do yourself a favor: Instead of entering the Anchor Bar from the parking lot, walk around the corner to the Main Street entrance, stop at the original wooden bar, and pause. This very spot changed the course of American food history in 1964, when the hungry friends of Dominic Bellissimo, who was tending bar at the time, arrived looking for a late-night snack. Dominic’s mother – owner Teressa Bellissimo – took the chicken wings originally intended for a soup, fried them, tossed them in hot sauce and served them.
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Created in 1964 by Teressa Bellissimo as an improvised meal for her son and his friends, the original Buffalo wing was first made at the now-famous Anchor Bar—where guests can still try a variety of tasty Buffalo wings!. Savor finger-licking wings in flavors like Teriyaki, Cajun, and Original Buffalo at Gabriel’s Gate, one of the best spots for wings in Buffalo. Try other delicious Buffalo wing recipes from spots throughout the city on The Wing Ride: The Hidden History of Chicken Wings Food Tour.
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While the renowned Buffalo wing places I tried, such as the famous Anchor Bar, were delicious, they pale in comparison to I BBQ 4U. The restaurant had some of the best and warmest customer service I’ve ever experienced, and the food was absolutely delectable. Chuck was an incredible person to talk to, albeit briefly, and I will dream about his barbecue forever. I implore you all to go to Buffalo, not to eat chicken wings or see Niagara Falls, but to visit I BBQ 4U. It is well worth the drive.
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You can’t visit Buffalo without eating some Buffalo wings, and there’s nowhere better to do it than at their birthplace, Anchor Bar. Anchor Bar is located just north of downtown Buffalo and is where Teressa Bellissimo (who was also the wife of the owner), turned the chicken wing, which was normally either thrown out or used to flavor stocks, into a worldwide phenomenon. Today, visitors can visit the restaurant to try some of their great wings and their equally great pizza.
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Anchor Bar claims the title of wing inventor, where Teressa Bellissimo created the first buffalo wing in 1964 for her son's hungry friends. Located at 1047 Main Street, Anchor Bar operates as a Buffalo institution that every wing enthusiast must experience at least once. The classic Anchor Bar experience features wings with a distinctive orange-hued sauce that achieves the perfect balance of Frank's RedHot tang and butter richness without overwhelming the crispy skin.
Where To Get The Best Buffalo Chicken Wings In Buffalo, New York
Tourists visiting Buffalo, New York, the hometown of the now world-renowned snack of buffalo chicken wings, will inevitably be on the hunt for the city’s best wings. Originating in the 1960s, the owner of the Anchor Bar (now a chain of restaurants found throughout Buffalo, Canada, and Texas) is credited with creating the snack by deep frying chicken wings, and covering them in a classic Frank’s Red-Hot sauce combined with butter. The rest, as they say, is history.
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As many people know, Anchor Bar is the original home of the “chicken wing.” (that’s right – they’re not called “Buffalo wings” in our city since it’s the place of origin!) So Anchor Bar is, in fact, quite famous!. However, among Buffalo natives, it doesn’t always get the best reviews regarding the actual quality of the chicken wing itself. I’ve had mixed experiences here over time, however the two most recent times I went, the wings were, in fact, very delicious!
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After the invention of the city’s most famous food, the Buffalo chicken wing, which has become a pizzeria staple throughout the entire region (including the original spot where it was invented, the Anchor Bar, which first served pizza), Bocce Club opened a second location in Williamsville, N.Y., another nearby suburb, in 1988. Both are owned by Pacciotti’s son, and are most popular for a very brisk takeout business to this day. The flagship Amherst, N.Y.
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On a Friday night in 1964, the original Buffalo Chicken Wing was created at this establishment. “The wings were an instant hit and it didn’t take long for people to flock to the bar to experience this new taste sensation.” Over 50 years later, Anchor Bar’s world famous chicken wings are widely renowned as some of the best in the city… and the world!. If you haven’t experienced the original Buffalo Chicken Wing for yourself yet, you’re missing out.
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Reputed as the birthplace of the original hot wings when a group of late night snackers demanded eats in the 60s, this place oozes history — from the license plates to the motorcycles that deck out the walls. Medium isn’t too spicy so you’ll want to bump it up to hot for some real kick, but the suicidal just might have you crying for mercy after one. A post shared by Kevin Nyitrai (@nytch) on Apr 23, 2018 at 5:19pm PDT
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This is the original home of Buffalo wings, which were first concocted in 1964 by the bar's original proprietor as a snack for late night patrons. Still available, the wings are smothered with spicy Buffalo sauce and served with celery and bleu cheese dressing. The Anchor Bar is still a local favorite, and the menu features Italian-American entrees and classics like chicken cacciatore, lasagna and stuffed hot peppers.
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If you’ve been to a sports bar, you’ve heard of Buffalo wings, and Anchor Bar is said to be where they were invented. They were created by founder, Teressa Bellissimo, who, as the story goes, created them from the only ingredients she had (too many chicken wings, her own sauce, blue cheese, and celery). Today, you can order the wings with a number of sauce options, and their hottest sauce has some decent heat to it.
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Anchor Bar has the name appear in the Buffalo wing circuit because they invented the Buffalo wing. As with the Juicy Lucy in Minnesota and the French Dip in Los Angeles, there’s some controversy over who was first to the chicken wing market, but the argument seems to lean in Anchor Bar’s favor. The vibe of the place is cool as it looks like your typical old school bar with the wooden paneling, tables, and chairs.
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If you’re on the hunt for iconic places to eat in Buffalo, NY, then you’ll want to stop by the historic Anchor Bar. While no longer touted as serving the best buffalo wings, Anchor Bar is considered to be the famous birthplace of the Buffalo chicken wing. Even if chicken wings aren’t to your taste, they combine this history with more Italian fare, draft beers, and live jazz music.
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If you were wondering if Anchor Bar would make the list, well, wonder no more. While admittedly not my favorite of the three Buffalo wing joints in this guide, Anchor Bar is undeniably an important part of the Buffalo visitor experience. As the creator of the city’s namesake chicken dish, a stop at the original Anchor Bar is simply one of those “when in Rome” affairs.
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I had to put Anchor Bar on the list, simply because it is regarded as the birthplace of the hot chicken wing as we know it today. It was even featured in a recent question about the bar in the show Jeopardy!. On top of being famous for their wings—which are really good—it’s an institution with seafaring-themed paraphernalia covering its dimly lit walls.
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Reading this article got me thinking, wings aren't the only good food in Buffalo, there's tons of non-chain restaurants that are locally owned and based in Buffalo. So, here is my list of the top sixteen restaurants in Buffalo (and throughout Western New York), from hotdogs to burgers to wings to Japanese homestyle noodles –– we have it all.
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You owe it to yourself to dig into a plate of chicken wings at the Anchor Bar, where locals claim the bar food staple was invented. They'll arrive deep-fried and served with hot sauce, blue cheese and celery. Sample the city's other fast food favorite piled with cheese and/or chili at eight Ted's Jumbo Red Hots locations across the city.
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Earlier this month, TheDailyMeal.com posted their top 25 wing joints, including Gabriel’s Gate (at #10), Nine-Eleven Tavern (#5), Anchor Bar (#3), and Duff’s Famous (#1). I’m happy to see that the list includes four Buffalo restaurants, because, believe it or not, I have seen lists that don’t even include one single Buffalo restaurant.
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They were invented here, after all – visit Anchor Bar to enjoy some wings in the place credited with creating them, and visit any number of the city’s excellent wing spots to keep up with your cravings. And if you’re visiting the city for Labor Day weekend in September, you’re just in time for the 2022 National Buffalo Wing Festival!
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Anchor Bar invented Buffalo wings in 1964, so no trip to Buffalo with family is complete without tasting “the original chicken wing.” They’re even on the children’s menu, too, alongside fingers and fries, spaghetti, pizza logs and a hot dog. Of course, there’s lots of other things on the menu if wings aren’t your family’s thing.
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Anchor Bar isn’t known for having the best wings in Buffalo these days—but if you’re going on a buffalo tour of the city, it’s a required stop. You’ll get a plate of great wings, along with the chance to sample the bar’s famous hot sauce—which is sold to almost 3,000 supermarkets and restaurants around the world.
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An essential stop during my travels, Anchor Bar exudes an iconic charm that draws visitors seeking a taste of culinary history. The quaint dive bar setting sets the stage for indulging in their legendary Buffalo Wings. Renowned as the birthplace of this beloved dish, each bite transports you to wing heaven.
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The story of the first chicken wings originates with – what else?. – a group of college bros at a bar. Supposedly, before 1964, chicken wings were typically thrown away or used for broth, but on a Friday night, the owners of Anchor were entertaining their son’s friends and needed a quick and easy snack.
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Anchor Bar in 1964 became one of the best BBQ restaurants notorious for creating the famed buffalo chicken wings. The draft beer and the live jazz in the background make this a great place to sit and relax with family or friends. You can even buy their secret recipe wings sauce by the gallon!
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The Anchor Bar is a bar and restaurant in Buffalo, New York, located north of Downtown Buffalo at the intersection of Main and North Streets. [3][4] The restaurant was initially established in 1935. [1][2] The bar is most famous for claiming to be the birthplace of spicy chicken ...
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In recent years, the Anchor Bar hasn’t received great reviews, but this is where Buffalo chicken wings originated, back in 1964. So, for the wing-lover, this pilgrimage to wing mecca is a necessary rite of passage. I had eaten there once before, but Paul hadn’t.
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Pick up extra napkins and get ready to eat at the world-famous Anchor Bar. Home of the original Buffalo wings, this spot is for any wing lover, foodie, or Buffalo sauce enthusiast. So pop into where it all started and be there to try the original chicken wing!
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For all the attention Buffalo's Anchor Bar gets, Gabriel's Gate, housed in a building dating back to 1864, certainly gives it a run for its money. The wings served at Gabriel's are bigger than you'll usually find, and are fried and sauced to perfection.
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Here’s your obligatory visit: The origin of the Buffalo wing starts here, a downtown sports tavern where one late night an owner fried some soup wings, tossed them in hot sauce, and a legend was born. Are they the best wings in Buffalo?
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- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (3,186 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Type of cuisine: American- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 1047 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14209-2305- Read more on Tripadvisor
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The Anchor Bar claims the prestigious title of the inventor of the buffalo wing – in 1964, the owner of this bar took chicken wings intended for a soup, fried them and tossed them in hot sauce as a snack for her son and hey presto!
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Buffalo wings from Anchor Bar or Duff’s, a sub from John and Mary’s, or Beef on Weck from just about any local eatery. Biscotti or fresh Italian bread from DiCamillo’s or a peanut donut from Paula’s. The list is endless.
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Duff’s Famous Wings, Bar-Bill, Anchor Bar, Elmo’s Bar & Restaurant, and so many others can top the list on any given day; however, the answer to “Where are the best chicken wings in Buffalo?. ” can be a complicated one.
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The Anchor Bar, 1047 Main St. Historic not only for wings but also for jazz, the Anchor Bar has been a jazz stronghold since the '40s. What with the food and the music, the line has been known to stretch out the door.
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The nationally popular finger food originated right here at the Anchor Bar. (The wings creation story is on the website.) There is an extensive, principally Italian menu. But come here for the wings.
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Buffalo wings: They’re tangy, spicy, dipped in bleu cheese, and a true icon. Ever stop to wonder where they came from?. Learn the origin story and taste the original buffalo wings at Anchor Bar.
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1047 Main StBuffalo, NY 14209(716) 883-1134 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps. Savor the most mouth-watering chicken wings in town at this beloved family-oriented establishment.
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Sure everyone knows about Buffalo wings…after all, they were invented at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. But have you heard of red hots?. What about sponge candy?.
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The Anchor Bar, since 1935, is the home of the the original Buffalo wings. Their first wings were made in 1964. It is a must to visit when you are in town.
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Other Wing Spots I Hit: Bar Bill Tavern, Doc Sullivan’s, The Blackthorn, The Lenox Grill, Anchor Bar, Duff’s, Cole’s, Glen Park Tavern, and Gene McCarthy’s
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That’s our advice to all the Buffalonians who seem to have shunned Anchor Bar from all of their “favorites” lists. Yes, it’s become a giant tourist trap.
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What about the Blue Bird bakery and of course a real relic was the Rib Eye sandwiches that the Anchor bar had before the world discovered the wings.
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If you like your snacks with a side of history, head to Anchor Bar or Duff’s, who’ve both been slinging wings since the 1960s.
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No matter what, the Anchor Bar is still a place in wing history, but many prefer Duffs 3651 Sheridan Drive
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