Wingstop

The chain wing spot off Hwy. 290 is open and slinging cooked-to-order flavors daily till midnight (later on weekends)

Local Eats flagged this one back in August as a "any day now" — permits pulled, crew hiring underway in the Drifting Wind Run center. It's since landed. Wingstop Dripping Springs is open and running, serving the chain's cooked-to-order wings, tenders and fries out of a storefront just off Hwy. 290.

The story. Public records in late 2024 showed Wingstop planning a new Dripping Springs location for 2025, at 136 Drifting Wind Run. The $300,000, 1,433-square-foot buildout was handled for owner DH Realty Partners with design by Wilkus Architects. The store is run by multi-unit franchisee Loren Hernandez as part of San Antonio Wings, Wingstop's largest franchisee group. Crew hiring ramped up with a cooks-and-cashiers job fair held onsite in late January, and the doors have been open for business since.

The vibe. This is the Wingstop you already know if you've been to one anywhere else in Central Texas — quick-serve counter, TVs, a short wait while your order gets cooked fresh instead of held under a heat lamp. The chain's been putting flavor first since setting up shop in '94 and started franchising in 1997, growing into one of the fastest-growing restaurant concepts in the country. Nothing fancy here — it's a grab-and-go wing stop for game nights, after-practice pickup, or when you don't feel like cooking.

What to order. With more than 11 flavors on offer, regulars lean on classics like Lemon Pepper and Original Hot, along with Louisiana Rub for something more savory. Pair wings or the boneless option with the hand-cut seasoned fries, and don't sleep on sides like Cajun Fried Corn or Buffalo Ranch Fries. The chicken sandwich combo and a crispy tender combo are also on the menu for anyone who wants something other than wings.

Good to know. The location sits at 136 Drifting Wind Run Ste 107 in Dripping Springs, and it's open for both carryout and delivery. Online ordering is live through the Wingstop app and website if you'd rather skip the counter.