52 great things about Lake County according to Charles Balicki

Charlie Balicki doesn't hesitate when asked to name his favorite thing about Lake County.

"Franks for the Memories," Balicki, 36, of Mundelein, says quickly. "Franks for the Memories has the greatest chicken wings, probably on the planet. And I've had my share of wings."

A mainstay at 645 E. Hawley St. for 23 years -- it celebrated its anniversary earlier this month -- the restaurant was founded by Buffalo natives Jim and Carol Schultz before the wing craze swept the country.

In fact, it was the first eatery to sell authentic Buffalo-style wings in Lake County.

The restaurant was planned as a traditional hot dog joint, but a niece recommended adding wings to the menu. The Schultzes copied the recipe invented at Buffalo's now-famous Anchor Bar and put a free wing on every customer's tray.

Eventually the business took off. Celebrity fans of the spicy snacks included William "the Refrigerator" Perry, Kevin Butler, Steve McMichael and other members of the Chicago Bears' 1985 championship team.

Franks offers several sauces for its wings. Balicki's favorite is the medium.

"It's just the right amount of kick, and it doesn't burn the mouth," he said.

But there's more to Franks' wings than just the flavor, Balicki said.

"The wings are big and meaty and piping hot," he said. "And they don't sit under a nasty heat lamp like the national chains.

"I've been eating there for 20 years," Balicki added. "I don't get wings from any other restaurant, ever."