Hackett Hot Wings: A Gem in Downtown Joplin

Located in Downtown Joplin at 520 S. Main Street, Hackett Hot Wings stands as a beacon of culinary delight, embodying the rich tradition of Memphis-style hot wings with a unique Joplin twist. Established in September of 2003 by Floyd and Jacqueline Hackett, the restaurant has become a cherished local establishment, renowned for its 17 signature flavors ranging from sweet and tangy to smokin' hot. What sets Hackett Hot Wings apart is not only the diverse flavor palette but also the Hacketts' dedication to making all their sauces in-house, ensuring a fresh and unforgettable dining experience.

The journey of Hackett Hot Wings is one of passion, dedication, and community. Floyd Hackett, with no prior restaurant experience, was inspired by the hot-wing culture of his hometown, Memphis, Tenn. After moving to Joplin and discovering a gap in the local culinary landscape, Floyd, alongside Jacqueline, embarked on this venture shortly after their marriage in 2003. The restaurant quickly gained a loyal following, necessitating a move in October 2008 to a larger venue on South Main Street. This new location not only offered more space but also embraced the Memphis spirit with its Beale Street-inspired ambiance and decor, enhancing the dining experience with Memphis blues and a selection of Southern staples alongside their famous wings.

My personal visit to Hackett Hot Wings was nothing short of exceptional. The restaurant effortlessly combines a traditional dining room with a sports bar vibe, adorned with local and regional sports memorabilia and boasting an eclectic, modern soundtrack. The presence of multiple TVs and a large stage for live events adds to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for diverse crowds, from business travelers to families.

The service at Hackett Hot Wings further amplifies its appeal. During my visit, I was impressed by the cleanliness of the surrounding area, a testament to the owners' commitment to the community. The personal greeting from one of the owners, Jacqueline, speaks volumes about the level of care and service provided. The food, especially the Greek wings and the specially prepared fries, was outstanding, offering a blend of flavors that cater to all tastes.

Hackett Hot Wings is more than just a restaurant; it's a cornerstone of Downtown Joplin's community, reflecting the spirit and dedication of its owners. With its rich history, unique flavors, and welcoming atmosphere, Hackett Hot Wings is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Joplin's culinary scene.

Whether you're in the mood for the heat of Smokin' Hot wings, the zest of Lemon Pepper, or the unique tastes of their specialty flavors like Brandon Williams (BW) or Garlic Parmesan, Hackett Hot Wings promises a memorable dining experience. It's not just about the food; it's about the community, the atmosphere, and the history that makes Hackett Hot Wings a beloved...

I originally tried Hackett's through an array of business dinners when I used to work for crossmark as the highest outseller. Those business dinners were also dinner dates with an an ex I enabled her abuse against me only having good memories there. I always worked with cleaning and food and advertising in retail for years. When I was on the streets because of my guardian and my ex hiring multiple junkies to try to make me come back to her Hackett gave me a job in the back where I ran the sink better than I was a busser do to my limited restaurant experience thus totally different than what I was used to. I got in trouble very few times while working there one I tried entertaining the guests as I cleaned a little to much around them didn't know better social ques is part of my disability however I loved the environment and was told if I no called and no showed a second time not to show back up. I did twice on new meds that didn't work well. I was hospitalized and young hacket my boss asked me why I didn't want to explain at that time however my apartment complex asked me for a termination letter to reduce my rent for the rest of the year to my income levels for documentation. I loved the chill vibe working there the music the music with sports even though my sport was never played on TV's, the employees were awesome too each other. Also during the time of my termination my doctors wanted me hospitalized for sometime to see which meds were right for me. I lived down the street thus the only job that didn't bankrupt me in transportation costs which was another plus. I specifically remember a few months after hospitalization friends brought me back with their kid all the coworkers I used to work with besides management seen the kid I was in charge of butlering and babysitting well they thought Adam was my baby nah that kid was my meal ticket. I still have the old work shirt still in good condition. Oh I recommend a custom order especially peeps with iron deficiency issues chicken chunk salad with an order of (spicy optional)fried spicy green beans with ranch it was what I asked for during...

I wrote a review here the moment they got on Google- 5 stars. I started going way back when they were on Broadway/2nd street. For years, this place was nothing short of perfection. Even when they moved into the new building it was still the best wing place in town. Then the bar opened, and I noticed a different crowd- kinda like BWW and that's a no-go for me. The beer markup was really high too. Whatever though- I don't drink at restaurants anyway and I just avoided the bar. But with the bar also came more inexperienced, younger workers. The higher volume and unequipped staff led to wait times getting bigger and the wings getting smaller. Then the upcharges came- for ranch, vegetables, dipping sauces, etc. The final straw was the price hike; I understand inflation and increasing food costs- but 10 wings went from 8.99, to 10.99 and then to 15.99!!!!! Thats a 32% increase in price against an 8% inflation increase (mind you wings got even smaller again!). I don't know their finances but this seems extreme. Ten years ago I would have never compared this place to BWW but now, Hacketts has the same tiny wings, the same young staff, long food wait times, and loud patrons. BWW is actually trying to lower prices on certain dishes, keep their 50 cent wing nights, and create more meal specials. The Hacketts had the best thing going for them and this may have tipped the scale in the...