East Coast Wings + Grill Adds Carolina Ranch Flavor After Fan Contest

East Coast Wings + Grill announced that the Carolina Ranch flavor, created by customer Emma Campbell of Norwood, North Carolina, won its fan‑driven "Fan Flavor Showdown." The contest let guests vote by ordering the three finalist sauces—Carolina Ranch, BBQ Peppercorn and Korean Thai—through the brand’s app, and Carolina Ranch emerged as the clear favorite.

The new sauce will become a permanent menu item this fall. The launch coincides with National Chicken Wing Day on July 29, which also marks the first birthday of the chain’s mascot, Coop. Participating restaurants are offering the flavor at no extra charge, kids‑eat‑free promotions, birthday hats, stickers, and discount coupons for diners.

Vice President of Marketing Ashley Mitchell highlighted that the flavor originated from a guest suggestion rather than a test‑kitchen creation, underscoring the brand’s community‑focused approach.