There’s just something to be said for sharing a meal with someone. Too often in the past couple of years we’ve been required to trim down our social gatherings or eliminate them all together, which has taken a toll on our mental health.

But, a new year is upon us, and, while periodic pandemic precautions can’t be helped, it’s good to remember how important it is for your mental health to socialize by sharing meals. A study published by Springer has shown that people who partake in meals in a social setting are more likely to have a wider social network and feel better about themselves.

In addition, enjoying a meal with others that includes laughter, reminiscing, and sharing a drink can make you feel particularly close to those you’re with, and we couldn’t agree more! Read on for suggestions as to how togethering with others and a meal from Wings and Rings can boost your mood.

4 Ways Eat, Drink, and Be Happy with Wings and Rings

1. Gather your group and head on down to your local Wings and Rings.

According to Springer, “The size and quality of one’s social network has very significant consequences for one’s health, susceptibility to illness, wellbeing, and happiness.”

Cash in on the good vibes by grabbing your family or a group of friends and head to your nearest Wings and Rings for a deliciously fun sit-down dinner. Order a round of drinks from our signature cocktail menu or a pint from the bar. Begin the meal with a few starters (like our popular Pretzel Bites and Ranchero Tots) and a couple bowls of wings (so you can sample all the different sauce and heat-level combinations).

When it’s time to order the entrees, consider our MVP Chicken Ringer with a delicious, house-made beer batter, a Classic Cheeseburger, or a Harvest Salad. Finish the meal with the grand finale: dessert! From Brownie Sundaes to our Turtle Lava Cake, we have the satisfying sweet treats to polish off your gleeful gathering.

2. Pick up our Party Packs and Bundles for your gathering back home.

Unable to eat out? That’s not a problem. You can get the same health and happiness benefits by eating with your family at home too.

We have a wide variety of Party Packs and Bundles available for you to take home (or over to a buddy’s) that feed any number of people. Our Nacho Bar and Loaded Potato Wedge Bars are fan-favorites: tons o’ tortilla chips or potato wedges for you and your friends to create the perfect personalized plate, choosing from toppings like queso blanco, bacon, cheddar jack cheese, jalapenos, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and sour cream or bleu cheese. (Add grilled buffalo chicken and make them next-level.)

The Designated Hitter Pack and the TailGreat Pack are versatile: Feed a crew or a few with a combination of wings, chips, chili, and/or your choice of sides. Then, enjoy any delicious leftovers the next day!

3. Get carry out and stay in.

Wings and Rings is perfect for smaller crowds, too. If it’s just you and a friend or significant other who wants to break bread together, enjoy that serotonin high by ordering in, as Wings and Rings is available for pickup or delivery.

Make the meal even more memorable by setting aside your devices and giving your partner undivided attention. You’ll be amazed how great you’ll feel by just being present and mindful in the moment.

4. Request Wings and Rings’ catering for your next event.

The Springer study also suggests people who eat often with others could expect to have larger social networks and be happier and more satisfied with their lives. However, being responsible for planning the food for a large event could sap that joy right back out of you.

That’s why we recommend taking the stress out of party or meal planning and focus on socializing by letting Wings and Rings provide the food. Whether that’s a wedding, a baby shower, or an off-site work luncheon, your mood will instantly improve knowing all you have to do is make one call (or make your choices on our app). When it comes time for togethering, just sit back, relax, and enjoy the company.

We’re always here when you’re ready to share a meal. Go online or download our app for easy ordering and to earn rewards.