If you think Buffalo Wild Wings in Moreno Valley is just the grand opening of another chain, think again. Buffalo Wild Wings is one of the bussiest restaurants in Mo Val since it opened in March 2011. With so few options that are upbeat, affordable and cater to a younger demographic (as well as families), it’s no wonder why the line for wings on Monday night was out the door. If you were hoping for free all-you-can eat wings for a year, sorry- the first 100 customers have long since come and gone.
For those who haven’t been to Buffalo Wild Wings, there’s a reason they have 4 million (and counting) followers on Facebook. The wings are made of quality meat, cooked (fairly) quickly, and servedhot, but not scalding (something I can’t say for that other well-known wing establishment in the area). The secret is in the flavors, and there are no shortage of them. My favorite is the parmesan garlic, though the classic hot wings are great runner up. If you can’t decide, they’ll let you split up your order with multiple flavors.
The atmosphere is distinctivly loud, with top 40 music playing while sports is playing on dozens of screens. The large bar area includes a well stocked selection of liquor and beer options from major distributors. There is also a sizable patio out back, evidencing their hope to bring a large summer crowd to the restaurant. Given that this restaurant and bar is open until 2 a.m., this may soon become a hot spot for Moreno Valley (and even Riverside).
If you’re looking for a large, clean sports bar, BJ’s is always an option, and if you want wings, Hooters has been a mainstay for quite a while. However, each has it’s drawbacks, with Buffalo Wild Wings providing a good middle-ground (or maybe the best of both worlds) that has certainly had no problem taking off. In fact, the franchisee has opened several other locations recently in Corona, Hemet and Palm Desert, adding to their restaurants in Apple Valley, Chino Hills, Mira Loma, Murrieta and Rancho Cucamonga. With growth on this scale, one can imagine that Riverside, San Bernardino and other cities may soon be home to their own Buffalo Wild Wings.
The one glaring downside was the extensive wait. There was a wait for a table, with about 10 groups ahead of us at 8:30 at night, and about a half-hour wait after our order for wings was placed. Most new restaurants over-staff to ensure this is not an issue, so maybe they’re just working out the kinks.
Nonetheless, Buffalo Wild Wings is now in a select group of Mo Val restaurants and bars that are worth going to with friends or family late into the night.
Buffalo Wild Wings – Moreno Valley. 12450 Day Street, Moreno Valley, CA 92553. 951-653-9464. Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily.
