2022 Best of Lake Erie: Craft Beer and Baked Wings

Fridge upon fridge stocked with craft beer are a focal point at Huggy’s Social House in Vermilion, which pours more than 900 craft beers, including its specialty house brews made by Elyria’s Unplugged Brewery — Dudley’s Golden Ale and Vermilion Red. “Dudley’s is really special to us because that was our first dog, and he was well-known throughout town,” says Jackie Freeman, who co-owns the business with her husband, Tom Hug. “We wanted to do something in honor of him, so the proceeds go to Golden Retrievers in Need (GRIN).”

With 85 wing flavors — from the popular rosemary garlic dry rub to the spicy scorpion that Freeman says, “brings tears to your eyes” — this riverfront spot with dock space is an eclectic reflection of its owners. 

Hug owned a local coffeehouse for years that was a treasure trove of antiques, framing and coffee bar items, says Freeman. He always wanted to own a bar, and with Freeman’s artist background and culinary craftsmanship, the couple is serving up a unique waterfront experience. 

In addition to an extensive selection of wing flavors, the  menu also offers elevated bar fare. We’re talking hand-carved raspberry almond turkey wraps with fresh berries and house-made honey-raspberry sauce. 

“Everyone here is like family,” Freeman describes of the atmosphere. “You come in and feel comfortable — you just enjoy it as if you’re at a small get-together.”

3 Beer-Wing Pairings to Try

1. Rosemary Garlic Wings + Vermilion Red Ale or Collision Bend’s Lake Erie Sunset 

2. Mango Habanero or Sweet Chili Wings with Twin Oast Brewing Co.’s Kelleys Island Pilsner or Olde Ohio’s Blonde Ale

3. Hickory Peach Porter Dry Rub Wings with Dudley’s Golden Ale 

Vermilion, Ohio, 440-714-1992

Stay on top of everything Lake Erie has to offer — all year long — by subscribing to our free The Splash newsletter. It’s your guide to the best food, drinks, parks, beaches, shopping, festivals, music and more. Click here to subscribe.