It's all about the wings - Buffalo Joe's

Business, General Interest, Public Affairs, Winter 2019

It’s all about the wings – Buffalo Joe’s

March 12, 2019

By Seth Schlechter
Medill Reports

It all about the wings at Buffalo Joe’s, more commonly referred to as “Buff Joe’s” and a staple in Evanston on Clark Street west of Sherman Avenue. The menu also features burgers, sandwiches and salads. This cash only restaurant offers great food at affordable prices.

Buffalo Joe’s, more commonly referred to as “Buff Joe’s” is a favorite for Northwestern students who like the easy walk to the eatery on Clark Street west of Sherman Avenue Sherman in Evanston. There is a second location in Chicago.

Dean Holden, general manager of Buff Joe’s reminds customers that the restaurant only accepts cash. “There’s an ATM by the register!” he says.

Britt Henderson, 24, tries Buff Joe’s wings for the first time at a friend’s Super Bowl party. “I’ve lived in Chicago my whole life and there is no doubt these are the best wings I’ve ever had,” he said.

An order of mild wings ($8.99) accompanied by celery sticks and in-house made ranch dressing. A side of Buffalo Chips, more commonly known as waffle fries, are a nice addition and cost $2.49.

Known for its wings, Buffalo Joe’s also serves sandwiches and salads. Imagine the the Chicago Dog, featured here, with the surprising addition of lettuce.

Customers order at the counter and wings are hand tossed in the sauce of their choosing.

Buffalo Joe’s fries its wings “naked” without any breading or seasoning. The wings are fried twice. They are first blanched in a cool fryer before being deep fried in a hotter one.

Buff Joe’s offers its wings in four different flavors; Mild, Spicy, BBQ, and Suicide. Suicide wings come topped with Jalepeño peppers.

The restaurant features high top seating along the walls and a dining room in the back. Its walls are decorated with news stories about Buff Joe’s and Chicago sports memorabilia.

Buffalo Joe’s was first opened by Joe Prudden of Buffalo, New York, the namesake of the restaurant.

“Photo at top: Buffalo Joe’s located in Evanston is a favorite eatery for Northwestern students. (Seth Schlechter/MEDILL)