Buffalo, New York. The name conjures images of snow, football, and of course, wings. But what about chicken tenders? While wings reign supreme, Buffalo boasts a surprising number of fantastic places serving up delicious chicken tenders. This guide dives into the best 28, exploring their unique offerings, from crispy breading to flavorful sauces. We'll help you navigate the tender terrain and find your new favorite.
Top 5: Buffalo's Best Chicken Tender Establishments
These contenders consistently receive rave reviews for their exceptional chicken tenders:
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Duff's Famous Wings: While renowned for wings, Duff's tenders are a hidden gem. Their signature crispy breading and juicy meat make them a must-try. They offer a variety of dipping sauces, from classic BBQ to their fiery Duff's Hot Sauce. Consider this your classic Buffalo experience, with a tender twist.
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Anchor Bar: The birthplace of Buffalo wings, the Anchor Bar surprisingly offers excellent chicken tenders. They maintain a similar level of quality and flavor as their iconic wings. Their tender's breading has a slightly lighter touch, which allows the taste of the chicken to shine through.
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Gabriel's Gate: This spot elevates the humble chicken tender. They use high-quality chicken, resulting in exceptionally juicy and flavorful tenders. They often feature creative sauce options that go beyond the usual suspects. Expect gourmet quality.
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Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: Dinosaur is famous for its BBQ, but their chicken tenders are a seriously delicious side. Their tender's breading has a slightly smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauces perfectly.
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Thin Man Brewery: Combining craft beer and crispy chicken tenders is a winning combination. Their tenders are perfectly cooked and pair wonderfully with their selection of locally brewed beers. Great for a casual atmosphere.
Exploring Buffalo's Chicken Tender Diversity: Beyond the Top 5
Buffalo's chicken tender scene is incredibly diverse. Here are some other notable establishments and what makes them stand out:
Casual Classics:
- The Bar Bill Tavern: Known for their generous portions and casual atmosphere.
- Sophia's: A local favorite, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Taqueria Los Mayas: Surprisingly, their chicken tenders are a hidden menu gem.
Unique Flavor Profiles:
- Westside Bazaar: A food hall with various vendors, offering a wide range of chicken tender variations.
- Swannie House: Their tenders are marinated in unique flavor profiles, offering a delicious twist on a classic.
- Allen Street Hardware: They offer an eclectic selection of sauces and unique sides to accompany their tenders.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites:
- Parkway: This local spot delivers consistently crispy tenders.
- Pizza Plant: Unexpectedly great chicken tenders complimenting their pizzas.
- Nineteen69: A classic bar experience with solid tenders.
The Sauce Factor: Dipping into Buffalo's Flavor
No discussion of Buffalo chicken tenders is complete without mentioning the sauces. Here's a look at some sauce styles you can expect to find:
- Classic Buffalo Sauce: The quintessential fiery blend of hot sauce and butter.
- BBQ Sauce: Sweet, smoky, and tangy, a versatile choice.
- Honey Mustard: A milder option, perfect for those who prefer less heat.
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cool, a classic pairing.
- Garlic Parmesan: Savory and flavorful, offering a different dimension.
Finding Your Perfect Buffalo Chicken Tender: A Guide
When choosing your chicken tender adventure, consider:
- Your preferred level of spice: From mild to wild, Buffalo has it all.
- Your desired atmosphere: Casual dive bars, family-friendly restaurants, or upscale establishments.
- Your budget: Prices can range considerably.
Conclusion: A Tender Journey Awaits
Buffalo offers an incredible range of chicken tender options, far surpassing what you might expect. Whether you’re a seasoned wing aficionado or a chicken tender novice, Buffalo’s culinary scene has something to satisfy your craving. So grab your friends, explore the city, and embark on a delicious journey of crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken tenders! Don't forget to share your own discoveries and favorite spots in the comments below!
