BUILT IN BATON ROUGE

Empire Wingz isn't just a wing spot — it's a story of passion, family, and community. Founded in 2012 in Baton Rouge, Empire Wingz began in an unlikely place: the nightlife scene. The founder, Vic Smith, immersed in club promotion, ran a club called Empire. Back then, wings were just a tool to boost drink sales — a side hustle behind the bar. But everything changed the day a mutual friend introduced Derrick Revish, a talented cook who claimed he could make "the best wings you've ever had."

Skeptical but intrigued, Vic tried Derrick's OG Redip wings and was blown away. These weren't just any wings — they were perfectly seasoned, fried, and sauced wings that had people lining up outside the club, sometimes during club hours, just to get a taste. What started as a simple tent behind the club became a local sensation, with fans coming back again and again.

By the end of 2013 club Empire was shut down, sending Vic into bankruptcy. Shutting down the club meant shutting down the wings. While trying to figure out his next business venture, Vic decided to call up Derrick and tell him they should start the wings back up. In 2015, with only $1,200 to his name, Vic bought a fryer — and the rest is history.

Empire Wingz began popping up around town under a tent — from clubs to barbershops to local events. They posted their locations on social media, and loyal fans would line up for blocks. The response made one thing clear: this was bigger than a side hustle. In November 2016, Empire Wingz opened its first brick-and-mortar location near Southern University, marking the beginning of a full-fledged business that now serves thousands of customers across multiple locations.

More Than Wings

Empire Wingz exists for more than just wings — it exists for the community. Giving back is at the heart of what we do: we sponsor local sports teams, support schools and organizations, and provide jobs that give people opportunities to grow, thrive, and sometimes find a way out of tough situations. Every wing, fry, and drink isn't just food — it's part of an experience designed to make every customer feel welcome, appreciated, and part of the Empire family.

Flavor Starts at the Source

At Empire Wingz, flavor starts at the source. Our secret seasoning is the foundation, and our sauces are the perfect complement — whether you love bold or classic flavors, every bite is unforgettable. From our original OG Redip to a variety of bold flavors, every bite tells a story — and even our plain wings are extraordinary.

Family is the Foundation

Family isn't just part of Empire Wingz — it's the foundation. The business started with just two people, grew to four, and now has over 100 employees who are considered family. From siblings and children to cousins and trusted friends managing different locations, every member of the Empire Wingz team shares a commitment to loyalty, excellence, and community. Even as the Empire grows into multiple locations, the founder ensures the core values of trust, relationships, and family stay at the center of the business.

More Than Food

Empire Wingz has always been more than just food. Starting from those early days of selling wings under a tent, the brand inspired others to believe in themselves, pursue their culinary dreams, and see what's possible with hard work and dedication. Today, Empire Wingz continues to impact the community by creating jobs, supporting local initiatives, and bringing people together through food and shared experiences.

The Empire Keeps Growing

Empire Wingz isn't stopping here. We're growing stronger, expanding locations, and building toward franchising — all while keeping family, quality, and community at the heart of everything we do. Whether it's your first bite or your hundredth, Empire Wingz aims to be your favorite wing place, wherever you are.