While the South has long been a hotbed for hot chicken, this American favorite has its roots in Buffalo, New York, and they are the staple of Charleston, South Carolina’s new Atomic Wings location, scheduled to open on June 27. The new restaurant is the first of several to open in the state by franchisee, Annona Restaurant Concepts (ARC).

Atomic Wings specializes in made-to-order wings, boneless wings, and chicken tenders in a selection of spicy and savory sauces ranging from Mild to Suicidal. For those wanting a little something different, sauce choices also include Thai Chili, Chipotle BBQ, Sweet & Tangy, Garlic Parmesan, and Honey BBQ. Going beyond wings, the menu includes wraps and salads as well as a brand new Atomic Sandwich featuring chicken tenders, tossed in sauce and served on Texas Toas with Blue cheese dressing.

"When I first tried Atomic Wings in New York I knew this was the real thing just like you’d get in Buffalo at Anchor Bar and Duff’s Tavern," says ARC’s franchisee and managing partner Hunter Atkins. "After moving to Charleston, I realized that what really would attract restaurant customers in the South is a high-quality, authentic Buffalo wing experience—and that’s exactly what Atomic Wings offers."

The Charleston location is part of a nation-wide expansion for the 25-year old, New York-based Atomic Wings. The chain’s first West Coast store, in San Diego, opened recently. Plans are also underway to open in Maryland.

Atomic’s CEO and founder, Adam Lippin, is behind the company’s growth. “Our strategy is to bring the wings and flavors so well-known in the New York area to many more customers. We partner with local franchisees, and listen carefully to them so that each new store fits perfectly into its market.”

Charleston’s Atomic Wings will be the first location in the country to be built with the franchise’s new interior design. The interior will be styled with stainless steel counters and tabletops, modern wood accents, and new bold graphics.