''I ordered every single item on the Wingstop menu and there's one flavour you must try'
With Liverpool getting it's own Wingstop next week, one ECHO reporter put the flavours to the test
Wingstop has had rave reviews from Mancunians since the popular chain landed at The Trafford Centre in 2022, even having people travel for miles to see if the hype is deserved.
With queues often building in the Texan chicken restaurant - both at the Trafford Centre and at their Piccadilly Gardens hotspot - it must be worth trying.
As Liverpool prepares for it's own branch to open on Lord Street next week, the ECHO decided to head to Manchester and try some wings - with one flavour in particular standing out amongst the rest.
Ordering everything on the menu, from bone in wings, fillets, burgers, churros and fries in every flavour possible, the taste test found a little bit for everyone.
Original
Referring to the OG flavour as a "underwhelming middle child in a star studded lineup", it's clear to see this choice was made to please those who aren't coming for spice. Served straight from the fryer with no additional spices or sauces, the flavour is just what it says on the tin, proving to be a pretty boring option.
- Original: 2/10
Garlic Parmesan
Upon first sight, it's clear to see why this one is popular. Crunchy and sprinkled with parmesan cheese, this flavour proved to be a lighter option in comparison to it's spicier friends, with just enough garlic and cheese to not overpower you. It's starpower was the wing's distinctive taste, with the flavour profile being a rarity in most chicken shops.
- Garlic parmesan: 6/10
Louisiana Rub
Generous in seasoning, this flavour does well to give that authentic cajun barbeque taste without doing too much, giving the right amount of kick. If you're looking for strong flavour without an overpowering sauce, louisiana rub in the perfect option.
- Louisiana rub: 6/10
Hot Honey Glaze
After the hot honey trend went viral on social media, Wingstop decided to give the sweet and spicy combo a try, releasing it as their first new flavour in more than a decade. Being one of the first on the tray to be devoured, Hot Honey was a "phenomenal" choice, perfectly balancing the sweet with the heat.
- Hot honey glaze: 10/10
Hickory Smoked BBQ
Although it's one of the chain's best sellers, this smoky option was nothing to write home about, being just a bit boring. Although very nice with a little sweetness to it, hickory smoked BBQ got lost in the crowd in comparison to the other contenders.
- Hickory smoked BBQ: 5/10
Spicy Korean
Referred to as "hickory's older sibling that everyone prefers", spicy korean was a choice that stood out. Combining a classic BBQ taste with a bit of heat and additional flavourings, this option had a little bit for everyone. No wonder it's popular.
- Spicy Korean: 7/10
Lemon Pepper
A more bland member of the family. What's not to like? Zesty and nicely seasoned, it's just a shame it was a like not a love. The flavour doesn't give any surprises and is exactly what it says on the tin, but it was a nice palette cleanser from heavy, sticky sauces.
- Lemon pepper: 4/10
Mango Habanero
If there is one flavour on the extensive menu that you should give a go, it's this one. The perfect mix of fruity and spicy, these were "the star of the show", enough to make anyone's mouth water and perfect for the warm weather.
- Mango habanero: 10/10
Hawaiian
If mango habanero were to have a quieter younger sister, this would be her. A solid choice which gave a fresh and tangy taste, Hawaiian should not be overlooked by those who fear it would taste too much like pineapple.
- Hawaiian: 8/10
Brazilian Citrus Pepper
A zesty and flavourful choice which tasted like lemon pepper with a bit of heat, but not too much. This option is a great choice for beginners, packing just enough punch to earn a spot near the top.
- Brazilian citrus pepper: 7/10
Atomic
Just like it's name, this flavour should not be tried without warning. For lovers of spice it's perfect, not dropping flavour in lieu of heat. However, for those with weaker stomachs, beware.
- Atomic: 9/10
Are the wings worth stopping for?
Is the hype deserved, apparently yes. With an array of flavours to suit everyone and a choice for those too squeamish for bones, it's clear to see why people of all types are joining in on the craze.
With no other chain rivalling the powerful, unique flavours, Wingstop appears to have found their niche and are running with it. The meat is good quality and the tastes are mouthwatering.
The only issue is, with so many flavours, what do you choose? Here, it seems the clear winner was mango habanero, perfect to go with buffalo ranch fries.