The age old foodie question that elicits many responses…who has the best (insert food) around? Well, today, I’m going to try to give you, the reader, some insight on the food question of who has the best WINGS around?
It seems that every restaurant these days has wings on the menu, and there are some very good ones, some not so good, and some terrible. My top wings list is still being compiled as I write this, there are some places that I do frequent that has excellent wings; Big Grove Solon, Old Neighborhood Pub, Club 76, Tornados, and a few more, but the latest and definitely a Top 5 contender takes us to Dubuque, Iowa and the Dog House Lounge.
The Dog House Lounge (1646 Asbury Rd.) has been opened since 1971 and has just changed up their menu. Known for their “carmichael” sandwich, (seasoned beef patty with Swiss and American cheese, similar to a burger), the Dog House has really amped their wing game. Many made in house flavors with different levels of heat and also some dry rub options as well, the Dog House has to be Dubuque’s destination for wings and maybe even be an Iowa destination for wings. On one occasion I was flanked by a friend of mine and my brother, both astute in the way of the wing, and all three of us were left waiting for the next time we can meet up and hammer some more wings! Onto the wings:
WING SAUCE #1 Raspberry Jalapeno – there was one worry with this wing and that was if it was going to be too sweet….far from it, jalapeno and raspberry compliment each other very well and a bit of spice and sweet were the perfect balance. The crispiness of the wings cannot be understated, perfectly cooked, nothing worse than a rubbery, mushy wing, Dog House has mastered the crunch and crispness of their wings. I would be hard pressed not to order the raspberry jalapeno wings on every visit. Terrific wing!
WING SAUCE #2 Hot Yaki -Asian flavors work so well in pretty much any protein and especially with wings. The sugar content makes for a sticky and super crunchy texture, not to mention absolute umami deliciousness. This was a very enjoyable wing, especially if you’re craving Asian flavors.
WING SAUCE #3 Tropical Habanero – I wanted to get lit up a bit with this one, although the flavors were superb, they weren’t has hot as I anticipated…which is ok…the habanero was subtle on the back of the tongue and once again the sweet and heat played perfectly. Another great textured wing. Let’s not forget to mention the house made blue cheese, absolutely delicious!
OVERALL: The Dog House is one of the best spots in Iowa for wings, no question about it. The rest of the menu items looked delicious as well, but wings will always be the staple. A Top 5 wing candidate for sure and I can’t wait to get back! I would love to hear your thoughts on Dog House or even recommendations on where to get some excellent wings! If you’re in or around Dubuque, make sure to check this place out! Cheers!
