Dave's chicken wings near Aiken among America's best, according to Fox News story
Aug. 2—The chicken wings at Dave's Grill & Grocery near Aiken in Couchton recently received high praise in a Fox News story.
They are among the "flat-out best" in America, according to the article, which was posted July 29 on foxnews.com.
"We were surprised, but super excited," said Aiken County Council Vice Chairman Andrew Siders, who owns Dave's. "We had no idea that we were being looked at for something like that.
"It's recognition for something that we've tried hard to bring to the public," he continued. "We work on all of our products, and really want to do the best we can. To be recognized is amazing."
In addition to Dave's, the article included information about five other "independent businesses" that are "hot-wing hotspots" in the United States.
Among them are Booty's in Surprise, Arizona; Double Dubs in Laramie, Wyoming, and Duff's Famous Wings in Amherst, New York.
The others are Legend Larry's in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and Wendell's in Norton, Massachusetts.
"One of America's most unique places to eat, Dave's offers wings only on Wednesday," the Fox News story states. "But wing aficionados say they're some of the best in the nation and are worth waiting for until hump day."
Michael Stern, who writes the "Taste of the Town" column that appears in the Aiken Standard's print edition each Wednesday, is quoted in the Fox News article.
"A cool place. It's also a butcher shop and an ethanol-free gas station," Stern told Fox News Digital. "Dave's wings are wonderful."
With ex-wife Jane Stern, Michael Stern created a series of "Roadfood" guidebooks for hungry travelers seeking memorable and affordable meals.
The former couple also teamed up with Stephen Rushmore to launch roadfood.com in 2000.
Fexy Media later acquired the website, but Michael Stern continues to supply content for it.
Siders said the chicken wings at Dave's are prepared "with lots of love.
"We have our own recipes like everybody else does," he added. "I guess everyone just likes our recipes."
There are several flavors of Dave's wings.
"Lemon pepper seems to be the most popular," Siders said.
Among the other options are regular buffalo and honey barbecue.
When interviewed Monday, Siders said Dave's was getting ready to introduce "Stupid Hot" as a new flavor.
Because of the Fox News story, Siders has received many phone calls. He also said he has enjoyed reading the comments on social media.
In addition, Siders was hoping for a significant increase in Wednesday business at Dave's because of the positive publicity about the wings.
Siders purchased Dave's, which is located at 3286 Wagener Road, last August.
Prior to that transaction, Dave Golding was Dave's longtime proprietor.
