SoHo’s Secret for the Best Fried Chicken – Tender Crush

SoHo, one of New York City’s trendiest neighborhoods, isn’t just famous for its art galleries and upscale boutiques—it’s also a hotspot for food lovers. Walking through these cobblestone streets, you’re bound to stumble upon hidden gems that are off the typical tourist radar, each bringing their own flavor and flair. Among these treasures, one place has been turning heads and tantalizing taste buds: Tender Crush. If you’re in search of SoHo’s secret for fried chicken, this new addition to the neighborhood will surely exceed your expectations.

Tender Crush: More Than Just Fried Chicken

Located at the crossroads of Broome Street, Tender Crush is an establishment that reimagines the classic chicken tender, taking it from a simple comfort food to a culinary masterpiece. Founded by Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan, the masterminds behind Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, Tender Crush officially opened its doors on September 26, 2024. Since then, it has quickly become a go-to for locals and visitors alike who are seeking a unique fried chicken experience in New York City.

Barish and Mulligan have a history of turning beloved food staples into trendy, elevated dining experiences. With Black Tap, they turned the humble burger and milkshake into an Instagram-worthy phenomenon, and with Tender Crush, they’re giving fried chicken tenders the same creative treatment. The result? A fried chicken joint that’s not only delicious but also thoughtfully designed to celebrate New York City’s rich food culture.

Crafting the Perfect Chicken Tender

At Tender Crush, the heart of the menu lies in its chicken tenders. But don’t expect anything ordinary—these tenders are crafted to perfection. The process begins with a special brine, giving the chicken a juicy, flavorful base. The tenders are then coated in a batter made from club soda and buttermilk, a technique that creates an incredibly light, crispy exterior without overpowering the tender meat inside. For those who prefer a lighter option, Tender Crush also offers grilled tenders marinated in lemon and spices, delivering a burst of flavor with every bite.

The versatility of these tenders allows them to be enjoyed on their own or enhanced with a range of house-made dipping sauces. Choices include Buttermilk Dill, Sweet Chili Pop, and Lime Honey Mustard, each crafted to pair perfectly with the juicy tenders. With these dips, guests can customize their experience, whether they’re in the mood for something tangy, spicy, or sweet.

Signature Dishes Inspired by NYC Neighborhoods

Tender Crush’s menu goes beyond just plain fried chicken. Paying homage to New York City’s diverse neighborhoods, they’ve created signature dishes that highlight flavors from around the city:

• Harlem Hot: These tenders are tossed in a spicy Buffalo-style sauce, topped with scallions, and served with whipped blue cheese. The Harlem Hot brings a classic wing flavor to chicken tenders in a way that’s bold and memorable.
• Jackson Heights Heat: Inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of Jackson Heights, this dish features tenders coated in a bird pepper sauce, garnished with chives, and paired with kosher pickles and a zesty white barbecue sauce. It’s a flavor journey that embodies the fusion of spices and seasonings popular in Jackson Heights.
• K-Town Hot: Infused with a hot kimchi dry rub and house chili oil, these tenders pay tribute to Koreatown’s bold, fiery flavors. Served with kosher pickles and buttermilk dill sauce, the K-Town Hot delivers a kick for spice lovers.

These neighborhood-inspired creations not only provide a unique twist on fried chicken but also celebrate the multicultural flavors that make New York City a food lover’s paradise.

Beyond the Tenders: Sandwiches, Sides, and More

While chicken tenders are the star of the show, Tender Crush offers a range of other mouth-watering options to complement the main dishes. For those who crave a more substantial meal, there’s the Crispy Chicken Sandwiches. The Staten Island Crunch sandwich, for instance, features a hot sauce blend unique to Tender Crush, paired with roasted tomatoes and sautéed broccolini—a delightful combination of crunch, spice, and freshness.

The sides at Tender Crush are no afterthought either. Options like Williamsburg Waffle Fries, Park Slope Spicy Kale, Tribeca Truffle Mac, and Chinatown Broccolini add a gourmet touch to classic side dishes. Each side is designed to offer a unique taste experience, from the earthy richness of truffle mac and cheese to the spice-infused kale.

And for dessert? Soft serve vanilla custard reigns supreme. Patrons can indulge in creative toppings like black and white cookies, funfetti cake crumbs, and blueberry lemon pie filling. These desserts provide a sweet ending to a savory meal, celebrating New York City’s love for indulgent, playful treats.

Drinks That Pair Perfectly

What’s fried chicken without a good drink? At Tender Crush, the drink menu is as thoughtfully curated as the food. Guests can enjoy local craft beers from Coney Island Brewery and Brooklyn Brewery, giving them a taste of New York’s vibrant craft beer scene. And for those looking for something a bit more refreshing, the Coney Island Coolers are a perfect choice. These slushie cocktails are topped with soft serve and come in flavors that pair wonderfully with the savory menu, offering a refreshing twist for diners.

A Nostalgic Yet Modern Ambiance

Stepping into Tender Crush feels like a blend of New York nostalgia and modern style. The decor is reminiscent of a classic corner store, featuring a few nods to the NYC subway system that adds a unique character to the space. The vibe is inviting and lively, perfect for a casual lunch or a fun evening with friends.

In a neighborhood where style meets substance, Tender Crush has created a space that aligns with the aesthetics of SoHo while offering an unpretentious, comfortable dining experience. The team’s attention to detail, from the design of the space to the quality of the food, makes this place a standout in the bustling streets of SoHo.

Quality and Innovation at the Helm

Behind the culinary innovation of Tender Crush is Executive Chef Stephen Parker, who also oversees the kitchen at Black Tap. Parker brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to using quality ingredients. His approach to crafting the perfect fried chicken tender is meticulous, ensuring that each piece is consistently flavorful and cooked to perfection. Parker’s expertise shines through in every dish, offering a balance of bold flavors, satisfying textures, and surprising twists that elevate the fried chicken experience.

The Growing Popularity of Tender Crush

The SoHo location of Tender Crush marks the restaurant’s second opening, following a successful launch in Las Vegas. This expansion speaks volumes about the brand’s popularity and the demand for high-quality comfort food that resonates with a broad audience. With its unique offerings and trendy atmosphere, Tender Crush has quickly become a favorite among food lovers in SoHo and beyond.

Discover SoHo’s Best-Kept Secret

In a city like New York, where food trends come and go, Tender Crush has managed to carve out a unique space. Its inventive approach to fried chicken, combined with a nod to the cultural heritage of New York City, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. SoHo’s secret for fried chicken is out, and it’s called Tender Crush.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this restaurant offers a fresh take on a beloved classic, and it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Open from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Tender Crush is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable fried chicken experience.

Conclusion

In SoHo’s culinary landscape, where innovation is celebrated and tradition is cherished, Tender Crush stands as a beacon of both. With a menu that respects the simplicity of the chicken tender while adding layers of flavor and creativity, Tender Crush is redefining fried chicken in New York City. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover SoHo’s best-kept secret in fried chicken, and experience a taste of NYC’s finest flavors at Tender Crush.