Two Wings, Two New Spots at Puck’s Alley

Chicken wings stand out as a beloved classic in the vibrant scene of Puck’s Alley. I set out to explore two bars with two totally different approaches to wings. With this mission, I venture to Beer Lab HI and RB Sports Bar & Grill, a.k.a Rock Bottoms, to see which spot delivers the better wing. 

SEE ALSO: Beer Lab Opens a Fun Bar and Lounge with Food at Puck’s Alley

First up is Beer Lab, where the six-piece Truffle Parm Wings and Chinese Salt Pep Wings are both $14. The atmosphere here is a mix of laid-back vibes with wooden chairs and tables and colorful murals on the walls. Our Truffle Parm Wings are an absolute treat for the senses. Each warm wing wafts aromas of cheese and is perfectly seasoned, tender and juicy. The truffle butter, paired with rich parmesan, elevates this dish to something truly special. I savor each bite and leave the bar with a smile, feeling satisfied yet curious about what’s next.

First up: Chicken wings at Beer Lab. Photo: Lucas Kamata

Then comes Rock Bottoms. What could possibly top those heavenly truffle wings? I soon find out. The 15-piece battered wings, priced at $21.95, come in a selection of flavors that have my taste buds dancing in anticipation. With 15 pieces, you can choose three sauces: OG is a garlic soy, Home Sauce is oyster sauce-based with sesame oil, SPV is salt and pepper with vinegar, Hawaiian Brah-BQ has liliko‘i, there’s Bomb Buffalo, and Green Dragon has light salt with wasabi mayo and cilantro. We opt for Yuzu Buttah, Calamansi Chili, and Gochujang Honnay. The wings arrive piping hot from the fryer.

Chicken wings at RB Sports Bar. Photo: Lucas Kamata

The Calamansi Chili wings are crisp on the outside with a punchy tang and heat that leaves a lingering warmth. The Gochujang Honnay is good, but doesn’t stand out as much. It’s not that spicy, and the flavors are OK. Yuzu Buttah, on the other hand, truly steals the show. The flavor transports me back to childhood, reminiscent of Snyder’s honey mustard pretzels but with a twist of yuzu tang. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, enveloping the wing in a golden sauce that keeps me going back for more.

SEE ALSO: My 7 Favorite Fried Chicken Wings on O‘ahu That Aren’t KFC

I reflect on my wing adventure. Beer Lab sets a high bar with its Truffle Parm wings, but Rock Bottoms takes my palate on a rollercoaster of flavor that I won’t soon forget. If I have to choose, the wings from Rock Bottoms win me over—each bite is a revelation, a reminder of why I adore food so much. But if you find yourself seeking memorable wings, you have two very good choices at Puck’s Alley.

Beer Lab, 2600 S. King St., beerlabhi.com, @beerlabhi
RB Sports Bar & Grill, 1019 University Ave., rbhawaii.com, @rbsportsbar808