Rapid City, SD – As football season rolls into full gear, the city’s tailgating scene is getting a flavorful boost from local favorite Wings and Rings. Owners Scott and Jennifer Landguth sat down with KOTA reporter Carter Soyer to discuss the menu items that draw crowds, the perennial bone‑in versus boneless discussion, and the best ways to keep wings hot and crispy until kickoff.
Top wing flavors that fans love
According to the Landguths, the most requested flavor is the classic Buffalo – a tangy, moderately spicy sauce that pairs well with a cold beer. “We also see a lot of repeat orders for our Garlic Parmesan and Honey BBQ wings,” Scott said. Jennifer added that the Spicy Korean glaze has become a weekend favorite, especially among younger fans looking for a bold, sweet‑heat combo.
Bone‑in versus boneless: the Landguths weigh in
When asked which style they recommend for a tailgate, the owners said the answer depends on the crowd. “Bone‑in wings give you that authentic, messy‑hands experience that many football fans love,” Scott explained. “But boneless wings are easier to eat while standing around a grill or a folding table, and they’re less messy for families with kids.” Jennifer noted that offering both options lets a tailgate host cater to a wider range of preferences.
Keeping wings hot and crispy
The Landguths shared three practical tips for maintaining wing quality during a game‑day gathering:
- Use a portable insulated cooler or a heated food tray. Pre‑heat the tray on a small propane burner and keep the wings at a steady 140°F to avoid sogginess.
- Layer parchment paper and a wire rack. This allows air to circulate, preventing steam from making the coating soft.
- Re‑heat quickly with a high‑heat blast. A few minutes in a pre‑heated oven or a portable convection unit restores crispness without drying the meat.
Jennifer emphasized the importance of timing: “We recommend pulling the wings from the fryer about 15 minutes before the game starts, then using the insulated setup to keep them warm. That way they stay crispy right up to the first kickoff.”
Community impact and future plans
Wings and Rings has become a staple for Rapid City sports fans, contributing to the local economy by sourcing many of its ingredients from South Dakota farms. The owners said they plan to expand their menu with a new Southern‑style fried chicken offering later this season, aiming to give tailgaters even more variety.
“Our goal is to provide a family‑friendly spot where fans can gather, enjoy great food, and support local producers,” Scott said. The Landguths also highlighted their involvement in community events, such as sponsoring a youth football clinic at the local high school.
Final thoughts for tailgaters
For Rapid City residents looking to elevate their game‑day experience, the Landguths recommend ordering a mix of bone‑in and boneless wings, selecting a few crowd‑pleasing sauces, and following the simple heat‑maintenance steps they outlined. With these tips, fans can focus on the game while enjoying hot, crispy wings that reflect the city’s vibrant tailgating tradition.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
