Country Sweet Chicken & Ribs

Sticky, sweet goodness, served in style.

Having gone to college in Rochester, it was inevitable that I at least try this place once during my time there. Well, that first visit, way back in 1986, left me intrigued, as the flavor was quite different from the ubiquitous Buffalo wing. The flavor grew on me quickly, so I returned. Again, and again.

Even after all these years, I find almost any excuse to travel up from New York to Rochester, finally admitting that I'll drive 6 or so hours just for these wings. I doubt most people would go so far out of their way for wings, and doubt my presence of mind to do so, but it's one of those flavors you can't quite replicate, though with the bottles of sauce I bring back, I certainly try.

What's so special about these wings that compels someone to make the pilgrimage?

First off, these wings aren't the dainty sparrow-sized ones you find in a bar or the striped-awning by the mall. These are big and meaty, and worthy of a meal. They are deep-fried in an unassuming batter (crispy, no herbs or spices to mess with the flavor) that enhances the sauce that follows by providing more surface area for said sauce to stick to. The sauce itself is a sweet sauce, balanced by a tartness and spiciness (should you opt for the hot) that must be experienced. This said, the flavor is not for everyone. It's definitely a love it or hate it proposition, depending on how you like your sauces in general. They are nothing close to Buffalo wings in taste, so it's not fair to compare them. Complete the meal with couple of sides (I'm partial to mac salad drenched with the remaining sauce) and a soda (yeah, I know, a lot of you call it "pop") to cut through the greasiness.

I've read other reviews that criticize the service, and I'll say that the service depends largely on who's at the counter, so it's different all the time. Seriously, you go here for the food, and be thankful that places like this are still around after all this time.


Country Sweet Chicken and Ribs
1691 Mount Hope Ave
Rochester, NY 14620
(585) 244-3200

Welcome!

Welcome to the Chicken Wing Diaries!

This is a project I've been intending to undertake for a few years now. Since college, I've been a huge fan of the humble, yet mighty chicken wing. Going to school in Rochester during the eighties, I had only just learned about "wings" in my first year. Already ubiquitous in the area, due to the obvious proximity, were Buffalo wings. No Friday night was complete without someone in the dorm ordering a couple of pizzas and a bucket of wings. I was instantly hooked.

By my second year, I learned about a few other restaurants in the city that prepared their wings in other ways. Near to school, and nearer still to my heart (or is that stomach?) was Country Sweet Chicken and Ribs (which I honor with the first review posted). It took me a couple of tries before I got used to their flavor before I was hooked. These are the wings that began my love for this bit of cuisine, not to mention expanded my appreciate for fiery foods in general. Although I may think these are amazing wings, not many people outside of the Rochester area (save for those of us who went to school here) have even heard of this place.

So, what's this blog about? It's about finding those little-known places that deserve to be known. It's about giving honest reviews of all sorts of wings. It's about people sharing tips on where to look. This blog, I hope, will inspire road trips, adventure, a few scorched tongues, and perhaps a few new recipes!

I won't be able to accomplish all this blog is meant to without your input. I invite you to give your points of view in the comments for the reviews, suggest places to review, and perhaps even join us as a reviewer.