Hot Wings Haven: 520 Wings Takes Savannah by Storm
Welcome to Savannah, where the air is filled with the irresistible scent of hot wings thanks to a local gem known as 520 Wings. This beloved spot was born from the dreams of Savannah native Gary Gordon, who went on a flavorful journey after graduation from Shaw University back in 2010. What did he discover upon returning to his hometown? A gaping hole in the food scene where traditional hot wings were concerned! “It felt like there was a void in Savannah when it came to traditional hot wings,” Gordon reminisces. That’s when his adventure began, and it’s been nothing short of delicious!
The Birth of a Wing Dynasty
A mere fourteen years later, 520 Wings has transformed into a must-visit destination at the bustling intersection of Victory Drive and Bull Street, right at the point where the upscale Ardsley Park meets the trendy Starland District. The journey hasn’t stopped there, though! To keep pace with soaring demand, Gordon launched a food truck and secured a stall at the busy Enmarket Arena. But wait, there’s more! In 2019, he opened the 520 Tavern near the Oglethorpe Mall, only to relocate it later for an exciting new venture on the highly anticipated Waters Avenue. This new location is surrounded by rising stars in the culinary scene, including Waters Cafe, Goodfortune Market, and even the award-winning The Stacks Bookstore.
Wings That Make Your Taste Buds Dance
Open daily at 11 a.m. and keeping the party going until 3 a.m. on weekends, 520 Wings draws in patrons craving one thing: those mouthwatering hot wings! Gordon’s signature offering? The lemon pepper wet sauce. It’s made from scratch and, trust us, you won’t forget the flavor! Gordon shares, “It’s one of our signature, made-from-scratch dishes.” As someone who has dared to dive into the wing experience myself, let me tell you: the freshness and flavor really are worth every moment you might wait, especially if it’s a busy Friday.
Now, if you’re looking to elevate your wing game even further, I highly recommend the garlic or crab fries as sides. And instead of the traditional ranch or blue cheese, why not switch it up with some honey mustard to dip your wings, or indulge in Gordon’s personal favorite—Cajun ranch? Trust me, it’s worth the little extra cost! Oh, and don’t forget to wash it down with one of their signature lemonades; it’s an absolute must-have alongside your wing combo!
Creating Community through Flavor
So, what’s the secret ingredient that ensures 520 Wings stands out from the big chains? Gordon attributes it to their strong local roots. “At 520, we put love into the product. I take pride in customer service and take pride in our product,” he says. Unlike many larger eateries that skimp on quality, Gordon is all about keeping it fresh and delicious. “We are kind of the opposite. We’re all about making a profit, but still like investing in our ingredients and not cutting corners.” Now, that’s something we can all appreciate!
But Gordon’s vision extends beyond just serving great food; he’s all about community too. From partnerships with The Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club to the Habersham YMCA, he’s committed to giving back whenever he can. “Anytime we can help out, we like to,” Gordon proudly states.
Close to Home, Rich in Flavor
Every bite at 520 Wings is part of an experience, starting from the moment you walk in—the mouthwatering aroma envelops you, warm neo-soul music fills the air, and stunning artwork from local creators adorns the walls. The vibrant atmosphere and dedication to quality are just a few reasons why 520 has established itself as a local favorite.
So, if you find yourself in Savannah and in the mood for some of the best wings around, make your way to 520 Wings. You’ll not only walk away with a satisfied stomach but also a sense of community and connection that can only be found at a place where culinary dreams come true!
