Actually, they’re only $8.99. But one might pay a hundred bucks to have this delicious appetizer; and, by the end of the night, you kind of will... After putting gas in the car, possibly a toll booth or two– depending on where you live– your actual meals and drinks... Yup.
One of the Classic items on the menu, the Thai Chile Style Wings are “slathered in [our] spicy-sweet glace of Serrano chilies, honey, ginger, soy and Sriracha...” And worth every penny. The sauce is not gooped-on but, rather generously present in each bite of the skin and meat itself and beautifully drizzled on top– which flows down to the plate for happy dipping. And don’t be afraid of the bold ingredients; there’s just a hint of each, blended masterfully to create perfect moderation. In fact, I had no idea what “Sriracha” was until I frantically looked it up on my phone to help make up my mind... I was pleased to learn that, although it’s a hot sauce, the version often served in the States tends to be a tangy combination of chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar and salt. So, hold the Kleenex. Still, even the spiciest Buffalo lover may appreciate the mix of some very awesome flavors. The wings had the slightest crispy-crunch underneath that heavenly coating, too. Scallions chopped and sprinkled over the platter was a 5-Star finishing touch... Torture?
Good news: All things considered, the entire experience was quite affordable and highly referable. With over 80 locations, and over 25 in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania (I dined at the Ramsey, NJ restaurant), Houlihan’s is probably relatively close for a night out. With a full sports bar, well-separated from the main dining area, there’s options for seating and no reservation required. Agreeable music for the general masses plays at an agreeable volume, adding to the approving, fun-filled din– from couples to families and groups of friends. The appetizer prices range from $7.99 for Stuffed Potato Skins and Salsa Cruda Bruchetta, to $9.99 for the Ultimate Nachos (which were also great, served with all the fix-ins imaginable), Tuna Wontons and Crispy Flatbread Prosciutto Pizza, to $13.99 for sorts of samplers. Entrees go from approximately a $10 range for sandwiches, like the Classic Reuben and Gorgonzola Chicken and burgers, like Gourmet Bacon Cheese, Mushroom Swiss and Vegetarian, to a $15 range for dishes like Jambalaya, Chicken Parmesan and Marsala, Shrimp Scampi and Mustard Encrusted Salmon, to a $20 range for the Steak and Ribs selection. I ordered the 3-way Mixed Grill: a ½ rack of BBQ ribs, chicken breast, and four gulf shrimp, served with red mashed potatoes. The mashed potatoes were seriously yummy. The ribs and shrimp were good. The chicken– a little bland. However, it very well could have been because I just had that party in my mouth a few minutes prior... Either way, I solved the problem– I dipped my chicken breast in the wing juice. Crisis averted. The eatery is also a fantastic drinkery; they offer an extensive list of martinis, from the beloved Apletini to the new Zen Green Tea Martini, margarita galore, and wine by the glass or $22.95-$38.95 per bottle. And, of course, the classics, which include daiquiris and the Pina Colada, Bahama Mama, Mojito, Mai-Tai, SoCo Breeze and plenty of ale on tap.
All Houlihan’s restaurants proudly boast “Real food, made in our kitchens with local produce and high quality ingredients.” Houlihan’s (at 706 State Rt 17Ramsey, NJ 07446/201-934-7222) additionally boasts $5 appetizers during Happy Hour, a banquet facility for up to 80 people, and is open Mon-Sat 11am-2am and Sundays 11am-12am. They accept cash and all major credit cards. Visit houlihans.com for other locations, site-specific information and a complete nutritional guide. During March, patrons can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with green beer... and Thai Chile Style Wings.
