It’s a testament to the discernment of snackers that Honey BBQ Flavor Twists have gone from a fringe snack found in the odd bodega to a Duane Reade staple. And this is an unlikely success story, because before Honey BBQ was released in 1992, Fritos had a decidedly mediocre reputation. At best Fritos were a pleasant but unremarkable accompaniment to a lunchtime sub, cleansing one’s palate of salami, provolone, and Marlboro reds. At worst, they were offered up by the stale, salty, yellow bowlful at brightly lit office parties. And somewhere in between, they were the chips with the regrettable Frito Bandito commercials.

But a bold experiment would change Fritos’ fortunes for the better. First, they developed their own blend of Tennessee style-honey barbecue and Carolina vinegar sauce for the flavoring. They absolutely nailed it. The Tennessee honey is a sweeter take on typical barbecue chip flavoring, but with a smokiness that balances the palate nicely. The subtle vinegar aftertaste rounds off each bite with a lingering zest. 

Next, the shape. To my knowledge Flavor Twists are the only chip to use the corkscrew/fusilli style. This is doing two things: first, as the name implies, it locks in more of the delicious honey BBQ flavor extending the flavor life of each piece. Second, it gives each Frito more surface area on which to paint this succulent sauce. The result is one of the most balanced, satisfying, and interesting snacks you can find. Don’t get it twisted.