Did someone say onion rings? Even folks who don’t like onions (points to self) usually get onboard with this version of deep fried fun. Although, the exact origin of deep-fried onion rings is a mystery, one claimant (according to Wikipedia) to the invention is the Kirby's Pig Stand restaurant chain, founded in Oak Cliff, Texas, in the early 1920s. Since we are all Texans, consider me sold on this legend! Although there are plenty of places to celebrate National Onion Ring Day, here are some staff picks that are not to be missed!


J. Gilligan's Bar & Grill

The Home of the World Famous Irish Nachos also has some darned tasty onion rings. And they are even yummier when paired with a hamburger or chicken tenders. This place is a local favorite. Come find out why.

Buffalo Wings & Rings

Their thick-cut onion rings are crumb-breaded and served with 'Bama White BBQ dipping sauce. This signature item has been a classic since 1984. But, that doesn’t mean that you should skimp on the fresh, never frozen wings. Or maybe the Buffalo Ringer Burger, which boasts sweet BBQ sauce, Applewood-smoked bacon, Cheddar Jack. Of course, it is crowned by one of their signature onion rings.

David’s Barbecue

Five generations of barbecue mastery has also translated into the time and skill for handmade onion rings. These are not your everyday rings! Trust us, this batter offers the perfect mix of coverage and crispness. The place is renowned for the brisket, and that just seems like the perfect combo, doesn’t it?

Chop House Burgers

Their thick cut onion rings are the stuff of legend here in Arlington. And so is their food apparently, since they have been featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.”

Live! Arena at Texas Live

Why just have onion rings when you can have an entire Onion Tower? I mean, seriously. Live! Arena serves this mile-high, crispy oniony goodness with special sauce and blue cheese dressing. And if that isn’t enough, feast your eyes on the 100-ft LED HD television while you dine.

Grease Monkey

Experience homemade onion rings in downtown Arlington. They are best when cozied up to a Blackend Burger, which has crumbled bacon, crumbled blue cheese, and onion strings. A true onion extravaganza!

Airways Hamburger

No time to sit down? No problem! Take your onions on the run at Airways. The convenient drive through gives you access to old fashioned, mesquite-grilled burgers, crinkle cut fries, and of course, made to order onion rings that will knock your socks off. The BBQ burger and the turkey burger are both top notch!

Tipsy Oak

Do onion strings count? If so, then grab some on the super cool patio of this “Ice House" themed restaurant/bar with a chef driven menu. And don’t miss out on the Poutine while you’re there! This place is walking distance to Legal Draft Brewery, so go grab a local brew afterwards.

So happy National Onion Ring Day all! It’s hard to go wrong with any of these suggestions. And best of all, someone else does the cooking.