This guide takes a look at the history, preparation, and unique appeal of onion rings, highlighting the top seven restaurant chains that have perfected this favorite treat as well as some of your local favorites. Who makes the best onion rings in your neck of the woods?
Onion rings are a quintessentially American snack, beloved for their perfect blend of crispy batter and sweet, tender onions. From their humble beginnings to their current status as a staple at many top restaurant chains – and stand-alone restaurants – onion rings offer a delicious alternative to the usual side dishes.
A Brief History of Onion Rings
The concept of the onion ring dates back to 1802 when a recipe for “Fried Onions with Parmesan Cheese” appeared in the cookbook “The Art of Cookery Made Easy and Refined”. The modern version, known for its crispy batter, began gaining popularity in the early 20th century. Today, whether accompanying a juicy burger or served as a standalone dish, onion rings are celebrated for their delightful crunch and flavor.
Why Choose Onion Rings Over Other Sides?
When you have a choice of sides (French fries come to mind), why choose fried onion rings?
Unique Flavor Profile
Onion rings provide a savory sweetness that’s both satisfying and versatile, pairing well with a variety of dips and dishes.
Textural Contrast
The crispy exterior juxtaposed with the soft, sweet onion interior offers a delightful eating experience that elevates any meal.
Visual Appeal
Onion rings add an element of fun and sophistication to the presentation of a dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Top 7 Chains Serving the Best Onion Rings
How many of these places have you visited?
1. A&W Restaurants
A pioneer in popularizing onion rings in fast food since the 1960s, A&W offers tangy white onions encased in a crunchy, golden-brown batter. Recommended pairing: Spicy Papa Dipping Sauce.
2. Red Robin
Famous for their Towering Onion Rings, Red Robin serves them on a unique metal dowel, making them not just a dish but a visual spectacle, served with Campfire Mayo and ranch sauces.
3. Culver’s
Culver’s rings are made from thick-cut white onions and a light batter that enhances the onion’s natural sweetness, earning high praise for their consistent quality and perfect seasoning.
4. Johnny Rockets
With a 1950s diner vibe, Johnny Rockets serves classic-style onion rings known for their crispy texture and robust flavor, complementing any burger and milkshake combo.
5. Buffalo Wild Wings
These beer-battered rings are a favorite for their thick cut and robust flavor, served with a Southwestern Ranch dipping sauce that adds a spicy kick.
6. Shake Shack
Shake Shack incorporates crispy onion rings into their burgers, notably in the ShackMeister Burger, featuring beer-marinated crispy shallots, creating a harmonious blend of flavors with their signature ShackSauce.
7. Outback Steakhouse
Some onion ring afficianados may cry foul claiming a blooming onion isn’t an onion ring… but others love the iconic Bloomin’ Onion and consider it a masterpiece of onion preparation, a massive, crispy delight that draws customers for both its taste and dramatic presentation.
Onion Rings Near You Now
Here are some additional establishments, praised for their onion rings.
8. Stella’s Bar & Grill – Bellevue, Nebraska
Stella’s Bar & Grill is not just known for making the best burger in Omaha; their onion rings are a crunchy, golden delight that locals rave about.
9. Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers – Leesburg, Virginia
Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers adds a tasty twist to their onion rings by serving them with a balsamic glaze that has Yelpers coming back for more.
10. Full On Craft Eats & Drinks – Rockville, Maryland
Full On Craft’s onion rings are a standout side, served with a horseradish mayonnaise that perfectly complements their crab grilled cheese sandwich.
11. BSF – Burgers Shakes & Fries – Greenwich, Connecticut
BSF’s onion rings are a perfect match for their unique burgers that feature grilled, buttered toast buns. They’re a must-try for anyone visiting the area.
12. Stock & Barrel – Knoxville, Tennessee
Stock & Barrel may be known for its bourbon selection, but their onion rings are a popular choice for those looking for a crispy, savory snack.
13. Union Woodshop – Clarkston, Michigan
Union Woodshop serves up oversized, hand-battered onion rings that are a perfect complement to their well-known barbecue.
14. GQue BBQ – Westminster, Colorado
GQue BBQ in Colorado offers onion rings that are a real treat, often paired with their Meltdown sandwich for an indulgent experience.
15. Hops Burger Bar – Greensboro, North Carolina
Hops Burger Bar has a burger for everyone, and their onion rings are just as inclusive. They’re a popular side dish for both vegetarians and meat-eaters.
16. The Knack – Orleans, Massachusetts
If thinner onion rings are your preference, The Knack is the place to be. They’re known for their lobster rolls and chicken tenders, but the onion rings are a standout.
17. Island Ono Loa Grill – Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Island Ono Loa Grill not only claims to have one of the best burgers in the US but also serves up funky and delicious onion rings that are a must-try.
18. Maui Brick Oven – Kihei, Hawaii
Maui Brick Oven offers a completely gluten-free menu, attracting diners with dietary restrictions. Their crispy onion rings are a popular gluten-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
The Takeaway
Onion rings are more than just a side dish; they are a culinary delight that has evolved significantly over the centuries. Whether you’re enjoying a stack of towering onion rings at Red Robin or savoring the unique Bloomin’ Onion at Outback Steakhouse, these restaurants offer some of the best versions of this beloved dish. Next time you’re contemplating sides, consider the classic appeal and delicious taste of onion rings that these top chains serve up.
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