Buffalo Wild Wings GO Opens in Kensington With Free Wings For a Year

By Anna Taft

A Buffalo Wild Wings location opened in Kensington on Wednesday, Sept. 24. The business announced on Facebook that at their grand opening, they would be offering their first 100 customers free wings for a year. This is the first business to open in the new Kensington Crossroads shopping center at the corner of Connecticut Avenue and Plyers Mill Road. The wing store will soon be joined by a deli, M&T Bank, and a Mediterranean grill, all of which are still under construction. 

Unlike traditional Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants, this location is part of the chain’s smaller-format concept, Buffalo Wild Wings GO. These stores are designed primarily for takeout and delivery, offering a limited menu of popular items like wings, tenders, and burgers. The GO format allows the company to expand more quickly into non-traditional locations such as airports and college campuses. While it offers convenience, the concept sacrifices the dine-in sports bar atmosphere the chain is known for. 

Einstein senior Evan Tucker was one of the first hundred customers in line, drawn by the promise of free wings for a year. “The camping experience, although not overnight, was still a long haul from early in the morning,” Tucker said. Despite the wait, Tucker said the experience was worth it. “I was able to meet people who had come as far as Olney, spend time with friends, and of course receive free wings for a year.”

Tucker also noticed the store’s convenience, especially for students. “The opening in Kensington places a quick and easy mobile order wing place right on the way back from school or a sports game,” he said. However, he pointed out a downside: “Although its proximity to Einstein is great, its high price for even small wing orders will likely dissuade many from buying it often.”

As for the atmosphere, Tucker said, “the BWW GO is essentially a cramped hole in the wall, so don’t expect to go there for the atmosphere.”

With more businesses set to open in Kensington Crossroads, the Buffalo Wild Wings GO could be the start of a growing food scene in the area.