Pluckers

 
I stayed away from Pluckers initially because of the goofy name. I had visions of dazed attendants plucking feathers out of chickens and God knows what else. I think we all do things like that occasionally. You know, like making rigid, non-processed judgments without having any real information.

Well, dudes, let me tell you, I was wrong to stay away. Pluckers is a blast. Located at 2222 Rio Grande at 23rd St. near the UT campus and on Research at Burnet, Pluckers has done for chicken wings what Madonna has done for the bustier. Since 1995, they’ve invented sauces, crafted techniques, and pretty much made themselves into one of the top wing purveyors in the River City.

One of my favorites in the wings department are the Ranch wings, served mild. The ranch dressing flavor is perfect, and consistent from bite to bite. At first bite, the taste puckers your lips, and then produces a broader sensation, as in, “Ahhhhhhhh.” Another favorite is the Lemon-Pepper Wings. The menu describes them as “lip smackin’.” And who am I to argue with that? A devilishly intriguing flavor.

I also enjoy the Jamaican Jerk wings with that characteristic, tangy Island flavor as well as the Honey BBQ with that mellow, comforting taste. In short, the wings offer up many delicious scenarios.

But the offerings at Pluckers are by no means limited to wings. One has to only try the Chicken Tenders to understand that. The tenders are coated in a batter (the ingredients are a carefully guarded secret) that lights up the night! They can be tossed in any of the dipping sauces that Pluckers uses for their wings. I highly recommend this. The result is something that would make a McNugget weep with shame!

And there’s more. Pluckers has sandwiches that are equally as good. How about the Big Easy? This is a grilled, Cajun-style chicken breast with jalapenos and honey mustard. Again, the flavor here drives this. And lest you think Pluckers is for chicken purists only, there are burgers as well. I like the Bacon Cheeseburger in Pardise. Cool name! It comes with a HUGE slice of Bermuda onion on it and it’s darn good. And The Rancher is tossed with ranch seasoning and coated with ranch dressing. They should call it the Redundant burger!

Anyway, I think you get the idea about Pluckers. There’s diversity as well as quality at a place that on first glance, maybe you wouldn’t try. Well trust me, try it. Soon. And tell ’em Rob Balon sent you.