Cranford Fire & Ice 2023: See Competing Restaurants

CRANFORD, NJ - Cranford is about to heat up, and also cool down, this weekend with its annual Fire & Ice event.

The event, set to take place Feb. 25 from 1 to 4 p.m., is slated to feature exhibits from ice carvers and fire breathers, as well as hot wings from several participating local restaurants competing to be this year's "King of the Wing." Attendees can vote by scanning the QR code at contestant locations.

Some hot wing offerings in 2023 are set to include sweet and tangy with orange sauce, honey bourbon chipotle, hot honey BBQ, Thai chili ranch, cider habanero and “ultimate buffalo.”

Here are the local eateries set to take on the “King of the Wing” competition this year:

• 8Thai
• Ani Ramen
• Dominos
• Garlic Rose Bistro
• Gourmet Deli
• Mr. J’s Deli
• Mystic Lobster
• Old City Cafe & Grill
• River & Rail Cantina
• Sapore Di Italia
• Sonny G’s
• Sub-Ology
• Thirsty Turtle
• Urban Burger
• Venue 104
• Vinny’s Pizza

Last year's King of the Wing was Venue 104, and owner Franco Vitella is looking to defend his crown, according to Downtown Cranford.

Ani Ramen House also won for its tasty wings in 2021.

Additional ice carvings will be placed throughout Downtown Cranford, as well as complimentary face painting, a balloon artist, s'mores, and hot cocoa, Downtown Cranford officials said.

The event is sponsored by Bright Air Corp. A rain date is set for Sunday, Feb. 26.

You can view a festival map below:

-With reporting by Remy Samuels.