Chicken Wings That Soar to the Top

October 14, 2012 By Alana Folen Photos By Leah Friel

Now that it’s officially football season, many are rooting for their favorite teams, and while I admit that I’m lying low on the football frenzy this year, I am amped up in regard to the food! Come on, what’s not to love about fare that’s totally touchdown worthy? Yes, we all know that chicken wings are a sports bar and party essential, so I really can’t think of a better time to shine the spotlight on this glorified American classic.

Whether you prefer your chicken wings smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce or topped off with a spicy zing, some of the island’s best chicken wings have come home to roost at the following Ono, You Know establishments!

Opulicious

Head on over to Opulicious on Coolidge Street for a dining adventure that’s fun for the whole family. Not only does the restaurant offer up fresh and ono plate lunches and local dishes, but it also livens things up with its assortment of balloon creations scattered throughout the restaurant. Owner and chef Kelli Kay Chun expresses her love for cooking and balloon twisting Monday through Saturday, and she can effortlessly twist up your child’s favorite balloon animal or a bouquet of flowers in minutes.

And while the keiki are all smiles with their balloon buddies, adults will smile, too, as they bite into Opulicious’ Honey Barbecue Chicken Wings ($6.95), battered and deep-fried to perfection, and seasoned with love. And while the chicken wings are onolicious as is, the side of honey barbecue sauce kicks it up a notch and brings a lot of flavor to the dish.

Available throughout October, Honey Barbecue Chicken Wings is a definite must-have. Two scoops of white/brown rice or french fries and tossed or mac salad complete the meal.

Now’s the time to break free from the norm and twist your way into Opulicious!

: Opulicious’ fun balloon creations always bring a smile to the editor’s face.

: Opulicious’ Honey Barbecue Chicken Wings ($6.95)

Opulicious
946 Coolidge St.
943.8885

Big City Diner

Bring on the local favorites and American classics at Big City Diner. One of my top picks when I’m craving comfort food, BCD opened its first location in 1998 in Kaimuki. Over the years, the restaurant also popped up in Kailua, Ward and Waipio, in addition to its most recent Pearlridge establishment in 2007.

“Big City Diner originally focused on burgers, but we wanted to add a healthy aspect to the menu that offered much more than that. Salads, sandwiches and entrees soon became available as well,” says BCD president and owner Lane Muraoka.

So, the next time, you find yourself at this local hangout, have your appetite take flight and feast on Wings Over Big City ($10.99). A popular choice among diners, this dish features BCD’s famous chicken wings smothered in a spicy guava barbecue sauce that is finger lickin’ good!

But I must warn you: This BCD creation is a bit high on the heat intensity scale, so be sure you’re up for the challenge. I say, bring it on — the spicier the better!

Wings Over Big City also is served with celery and carrot sticks to help cleanse the palate. According to BCD staff, this zesty dish is in fact a restaurant original, which made a name for itself back in the day at the Kaimuki establishment.

: BCD’s Wings Over Big City ($10.99)

: Big City Diner Ward general manager Andrew Perez with Wings Over Big City ($10.99)

Big City Diner
1060 Auahi St. (and various locations)
591.8891

M Nightclub

Conveniently located at Waterfront Plaza on Ala Moana Boulevard, M Nightclub is a multipurpose and versatile hot spot and has made its mark as a renowned restaurant, nightclub and venue. While each night at M can be a different experience depending on the events and crowds, one thing that remains constant is its dedication to fantastic cuisine. Within a chic and modern atmosphere with state-of-theart lighting and contemporary beats, take the opportunity to indulge in M’s handcrafted fare and sip on savory drinks.

“What a lot of people don’t realize is that during the week we’re more of a restaurant, and then during the weekend we’re a nightclub,” says M Nightclub general manager Dan Punch.

Happy Hour runs from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and if you’re in the mood for a fabulous appetizer, you’ll go crazy for M’s Buffalo Wings ($12 regular price, $6 happy hour), which are nothing short of magnificent.

This starter features M’s homestyle wings tossed in a secret sauce, which Punch describes as “a happy medium spice.” Accompanying the dish is your choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery sticks. Believe me, these wings are delicious! Like buttah!

According to Punch, M Nightclub is redefining the standard of Honolulu nightlife.

“The M is modern and contemporary — like a blank canvas, we can cater to any event or function.”