If you’re a fried chicken enthusiast in New York City, there’s a new spot in SoHo that’s making waves: Tender Crush. Opened by Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan, the minds behind Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, Tender Crush brings an innovative twist to the fried chicken scene. Located at 529 Broome Street, this fast-casual gem focuses on elevating the humble chicken tender with fresh ingredients, unique recipes, and an atmosphere that feels like NYC itself.
What Makes Tender Crush a Must-Visit for Fried Chicken Lovers
At Tender Crush, fried chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Executive Chef Stephen Parker, known for his creative touch at Black Tap, has crafted a menu that brings new life to fried chicken with a balance of crispiness, flavor, and unique seasonings. Diners can choose between two main options: a classic fried tender brined in a club soda and buttermilk batter for an ultra-crispy bite, or a zesty grilled tender marinated with lemon and spices. Both styles offer a satisfying crunch, but it’s the variety of house-made dips that truly elevates the experience.
The lineup of dips includes everything from a creamy Buttermilk Dill to the tangy Lime Honey Mustard and a bold Sweet Chili Pop, allowing diners to customize their chicken. With so many choices, Tender Crush is redefining fried chicken near you in SoHo by offering a level of quality and creativity typically reserved for upscale restaurants.
A Menu Inspired by NYC’s Neighborhoods
One of the things that makes Tender Crush truly unique is its tribute to New York City’s diverse food culture. Many items on the menu are named after NYC neighborhoods, infusing a bit of local flavor into each bite. For example, the Harlem Hot tender tosses chicken in a spicy Buffalo-style sauce paired with whipped blue cheese, while the Thai Queens offers a sweet chili flavor profile with fresh lime and cilantro for a taste of Southeast Asia right in SoHo.
Tender Crush’s sandwich offerings add even more NYC-inspired flair. Options like the Staten Island Crunch, featuring Staten Island hot sauce and savory toppings, and the Old School NY Crush, topped with lettuce, tomato, and kosher pickles, pay homage to NYC’s vibrant food scene. And if you’re in the mood for sides, you’ll find plenty of local-inspired choices, from Williamsburg Waffle Fries to Park Slope Spicy Kale and Tribeca Truffle Mac. With each bite, you get a taste of the city’s cultural melting pot.
Not Just Chicken: Craft Beverages and Sweet Treats
Tender Crush goes beyond just chicken, making it an ideal spot for a fun dining experience in SoHo. In true NYC fashion, they’ve curated a drink menu featuring local craft beers from popular breweries like Coney Island and Brooklyn Brewery. For something more unique, try a Coney Island Cooler, which is a boozy slushie topped with vanilla soft-serve—a nod to NYC’s playful food scene.
On the dessert side, Tender Crush serves up vanilla custard topped with NYC-inspired toppings like funfetti cake crumbs, black and white cookies, or blueberry lemon pie filling. It’s the perfect sweet ending to a savory meal.
An Atmosphere That’s Pure SoHo
Located in the heart of SoHo, Tender Crush has an ambiance that feels like a throwback to NYC’s nostalgic corner stores mixed with a modern twist. The décor includes subway-inspired design elements and nods to New York’s bustling streets, making it feel authentic and lively. The interiors combine industrial elements with nostalgic touches, creating a space that feels like home for New Yorkers and visitors alike.
This design approach is a big part of what makes Tender Crush a standout among other SoHo eateries. It’s casual and welcoming, but with an elevated menu that goes beyond typical fast-casual fare, making it a perfect place to stop by with friends or family.
Why Tender Crush Is Setting New Standards for Fried Chicken
In a city with no shortage of incredible fried chicken options, Tender Crush stands out for its attention to detail and quality. Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan, known for their innovation at Black Tap, wanted to bring the same dedication to chicken tenders. With top-notch ingredients and thoughtfully crafted recipes, Tender Crush is the ideal spot for chicken lovers looking for something new and exciting.
The focus on high-quality, locally-inspired food combined with a vibrant atmosphere makes Tender Crush a go-to destination in SoHo for anyone craving great fried chicken. Whether you’re visiting for a quick bite or planning a meal with friends, Tender Crush delivers a unique twist on comfort food that’s well worth a visit.
Experience New York’s Favorite Fried Chicken at Tender Crush
Tender Crush has set a new bar for fried chicken in SoHo with its creative menu, vibrant atmosphere, and deep respect for NYC’s culinary heritage. If you’re searching for fried chicken near you in SoHo, Tender Crush is the place to go. The mix of classic and innovative flavors, along with its dedication to quality and local ingredients, makes Tender Crush an unforgettable experience.
From the crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken to the diverse sides and craft drinks, Tender Crush offers a fresh take on fried chicken that resonates with locals and newcomers alike. So, next time you’re in SoHo, treat yourself to a meal that’s both delicious and undeniably New York at Tender Crush.
