Regardless, the wings were tasted, and they must be subjected to The Rules!
The Scores
- The Specs: Somehow, inexplicably, implausibly... it was just drums! No flats, never mind any single or double jointed-ness. I didn't think that was possible! RATING: 2.5... and lucky to get that.
- The Sauce: The Leadbeater wings were seemingly made with Frank's. However, they tasted as if that buffalo sauce was made the night before and reheated. At least that's what I'm alleging. RATING: 3
- Crunch: Again, though it appears Leadbeater does use a seasoned flour for their wings, the crunch was non-existent. Honestly, I put that down to my above allegation that these wings were actually prepped and fried the night before, then reheated. Oh Lord... tell me they weren't microwaved for me on this particular Sunday...??? RATING: 3
- Serving size & price/Value for Money: Half a kilo of Drums, for $14.50; I suppose that was about 10 pieces? I really have to start counting. Value is OK here for the serving size. RATING: 7
- Heat/spice level: Great bit of spice on these wings. Perfect level to invite you to go another round, after half time of the footy game on TV. That is, if they hadn't been made the night before then microwaved for me today. Allegedly. RATING: 8
- Flavour: As mentioned above, probably Frank's Red Hot and butter but definitely not a good version of it. RATING 3
- Celery: Was there Celery sticks? No... but there was some weird kind of garnish... RATING: 0.
- Dipping Sauce: Blue Cheese? No. RATING: 0.
- Other Stuff: A Hazy IPA on tap, as well as a Hazy Pale but no outright West Coast IPAs to perfectly match the Buffalo Wings. Still, no points off, as IPA on tap is always a good thing. Frustratingly, this was my first ever visit to The Leadbeater Hotel and it has a cracking set up, good ambience, all leading to inviting you back for a return visit. The bar tender was lovely and, there was even a kind old lady sitting at the bar! RATING 7.
OVERALL RATING 33.5/80. No bonus points; no moist towelettes for post-wing clean up.
On a Sunday when my beloved Hawks were playing, The Leadbeater Hotel's wings were the first of a few heartbreaks. The Hawks were terrible, and the wings were not much better. At the time, I was emotional and decided I'd never go back for those wings but... They were so disappointing, I have to believe it was an off day. One day, this WIngman will return to this cool pub in Richmond and, with any luck, the wings will emerge triumphantly.
Venue Details:
1 Church St, Richmond VIC 3121
Facebook: @leadbeaterhotel <> Instagram: @leadbeaterhotel
Website: www.leadbeaterhotel.com.au
