2.28.2011

Downtown Restaurant Makes Grown Men Cry

Step into Wing Zilla Grill on any Tuesday night and see big, burly men with sweaty foreheads, and crying eyes trying to endure 10 of the hottest wings on the menu.  Why? What’s at stake? For those that can handle the heat, a free meal, dessert and an inflated ego.

Owner, Kuang Stophel, (please call her Roxanne), opened in late November at 102 East Washington Street at the former Easter’s Cafe and later the Tavern’s location.  Ms. Stophel is already building up a steady and regular clientele, many of which recognize her from previously owning Cricket’s in Madison, Alabama. 
  
Dell Roberts, Athens resident and self proclaimed wing connoisseur, said he and his buddies travel to different restaurants just to try the wings and participate in wing contests like the downtown fire challenge in Cullman.  “After eating one of (Wing Zilla’s) hottest wings, I knew I just couldn’t make it through the contest.” Having found the right temperature now, he returns regularly and is sure to leave room for the homemade peanut butter pie.  “You just have to try the pie, it’s great.”

Josh Wilbanks, also an Athens resident and friend of Roberts, adds, “These are the best wings in North Alabama.”
  
Stophel offers quality food in a casual atmosphere.  “Our wings are never frozen and we use soybean oil for frying,” said Stophel.  “If I won’t eat it, I won’t serve it.” 

Wings are not the only item on the menu.  Items include cheesy fries, fried pickles, salads, burgers, chicken sandwiches, ribs, homemade apple roll, and more.

Wing Zilla Grill is open Monday through Friday 11-2 PM, Monday through Thursday 5-8:30 PM, Friday 5-9:30 PM, and Saturday 11-9:30 PM.  Take out platters and catering is also available.  For more information, call Wing Zilla Grill at 256-232-7746.


Roxanne with welcome gift from Spirit of Athens

Variety of beverages available

Peanut butter pie

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