Hailing it as an important moment for minority-owned businesses in an area where there aren’t many, the owners of the new Dry Fried Wing Bar and Grille opened up shop on Friday afternoon in downtown Bethesda.
The Dry Fried Wing Company, seeking a foothold in the Washington market, chose to take over the much talked about but short-lived Box Bar & Grille at 7525 Old Georgetown Rd. The Hooter’s-themed Box Bar opened in 2011 before Dry Fried Wings and partner George Farrell bought it out.
In attendance was Dr. Ben Chavis, CEO of Dry Fried Wings, civil rights leader and former head of the NAACP. Chavis and former Lt. Gov. and Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele spoke about empowering minorities through business ownership.
The Florida-based company says the wings are “America’s Hottest Co-Branding Concept,” and it hopes to partner with sports bars around the area.
In December, the company debuted its co-branding arrangement at a Florida pizzeria with an appearance from retired NBA star Shaquille O’Neal. A poster with O’Neal chomping on the “San Francisco-style” wings now hangs from the awning of what used to be the Box Bar.
The restaurant is offering free wing samples until 5 p.m. today.
