LEESBURG, Fla. — There’s a place in town where the TVs are always tuned to the big game, the wings come out sizzling, and dipping into that ranch dressing or blue cheese will make you lean back and say, “Now that’s what I’m talking about.”

That place is Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant.

Born in 2007 out of pure love for great food and better company, Cousin Vinnie’s has become more than a local wing joint, it’s a cornerstone of Leesburg’s flavor scene. And now, with a new face behind the counter, the tradition carries on with fresh energy and the same mouthwatering lineup that’s packed tables and satisfied appetites for nearly two decades.

(The Buffalo Wings served at Cousin Vinnies use a secret sauce that’s worth the trip for. Photo – Tripadvisor.)

The man behind the magic? Sam Dapena, a guy who, up until a few years ago, spent his days remodeling interiors and his nights dreaming about doing something that fed both the stomach and the soul.

“When Vinnie and I were chatting one day, I joked about running the place,” Sam says, grinning like someone who still can’t quite believe it worked out. “Next thing I know, he’s handing me the keys along with the family secrets that built this place.”

Originally opened by Vinnie Vittoria, Cousin Vinnie’s quickly earned a reputation for wings that mean business and a menu loaded with crowd-pleasers. When Sam took over in 2021, he didn’t reinvent the wheel, he just tuned it up, added his signature jalapeño ranch sauce, and let the legacy speak for itself.

(Sam Depena took Cousin Vinnie’s over in 2021 and it’s as good as ever! Photo Credit Nicole Hamel.)

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” Sam says. “People come here for the food they grew up on. We just make sure it’s as good as they remember.”

But that doesn’t mean Sam isn’t having some fun.

As football season rolls around, Sam’s bringing his own favorite tailgate recipes to the table, dips that disappear in seconds, chips with crunch, and wings that practically demand a cold beer in hand. To him, tailgating isn’t just pregame it’s a lifestyle.

(These wings don’t mess around, packed with flavor and goodness you come to expect. Photo Credit – TripAdvisor.)

“Wings, dips, chips, cold beer, and your people, that’s what tailgating’s all about,” he says. “That’s what we’re about.”

On the Menu

Step inside and you’ll find a menu that reads like a love letter to game-day greatness. From garlic parmesan fries to beer-battered onion rings, fried green beans to fireball sausage and cheese bites, it’s a comfort food blitz.

(Ok.. now hold up.. these onion rings mean business!!)

Of course, the wings are the MVP. Crisp, saucy, and available in just about every flavor your tastebuds can cheer for. But don’t sleep on the Killer Hamburgers, stacked high and crafted from 80/20 blended patties. The Alpine Burger, smothered in sautéed mushrooms and onions, is a fan favorite, while the BBQ Burger delivers a backyard punch.

And for those looking to try something off the beaten path? The deep-fried hot dogs, yes, deep-fried are a cult classic that even made waves on the Food Channel.

Hearty sandwiches like the three-generation chicken salad, ribeye Philly cheesesteak, and spicy buffalo chicken sub keep regulars coming back, while desserts like funnel cake fries and the indulgent Peanut Butter Explosion offer the perfect finale.

(Even the dip and chips is delicious and worth a try.)

Best of the Best

Voted “Best of the Best” for both wings and sports bar in the Lake and Sumter Style Magazine Readers’ Choice awards, Cousin Vinnie’s is more than just a place to eat, it’s a place to belong.

With wall-to-wall screens showing everything from NFL, college football to The Masters, and a friendly buzz that hits as soon as you walk through the door, Cousin Vinnie’s is always a fun go to spot.

Tailgates. Touchdowns. Tradition. It’s all here served hot, loud, and full of heart at Cousin Vinnie’s.