When it comes to authentic New York style fried chicken, Tender Crush in SoHo stands out as a culinary masterpiece. This unassuming spot has elevated a comfort food classic into a must-visit destination for food lovers across NYC. Located at 529 Broome Street, Tender Crush blends the charm of SoHo’s eclectic vibe with the soul of traditional fried chicken. Let’s dive into why this spot is redefining fried chicken in the Big Apple.
A Concept Rooted in Passion
The visionaries behind Tender Crush, Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan, are no strangers to innovation. Known for their work at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, they wanted to create something that was simultaneously nostalgic and groundbreaking. Their mission? To turn chicken tenders—often viewed as a basic menu item—into a gourmet experience. With the culinary genius of Executive Chef Stephen Parker, this dream became a reality.
Tender Crush isn’t just another chicken joint. It’s a place where the art of frying meets meticulous attention to detail. Every bite tells a story of flavor, texture, and dedication.
The Menu: A Celebration of Flavor
Tender Crush’s menu is a carefully curated celebration of fried chicken. From their iconic chicken tenders to creative sandwiches, the offerings are designed to cater to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters.
- Crispy Fried Tenders: The heart of the menu. These tenders are brined in a club soda and buttermilk mixture, ensuring every bite is crispy yet juicy. The batter delivers a satisfying crunch that keeps diners coming back for more.
- Grilled Tenders: For those seeking a lighter option, the grilled tenders are equally flavorful. Marinated in a zesty lemon and spice blend, these tenders are seared to perfection, providing a smoky, tender bite.
Each tender is paired with a selection of house-made sauces, like the tangy Buttermilk Dill, the sweet-and-spicy Chili Pop, and the unique Lime Honey Mustard.
Sandwiches That Tell a Story
Tender Crush has taken sandwiches to the next level. Each offering is inspired by the boroughs of New York, paying homage to the city’s rich cultural tapestry:
- Staten Island Crunch: Featuring Staten Island hot sauce, broccolini, provolone, and roasted tomatoes, this sandwich is a bold, flavorful tribute to the borough.
- Old School NY Crush: A classic take on the chicken sandwich with mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles. It’s simple yet undeniably satisfying.
- Hot Crush: For those who like a spicy kick, the Hot Crush combines garlic-chili hot sauce with white barbecue sauce for a flavor explosion.
Creative Sides That Steal the Show
A great meal isn’t complete without sides, and Tender Crush delivers in spades. From crispy Williamsburg Waffle Fries to the decadent Tribeca Truffle Mac, every side dish is crafted with the same care as the main courses. For a lighter option, the Park Slope Spicy Kale Salad adds a refreshing contrast to the fried fare.
Desserts to Delight Your Sweet Tooth
Ending on a sweet note is mandatory at Tender Crush. Their Soft Serve Vanilla Custard is the perfect way to finish your meal. Add toppings like funfetti cake crumbs, blueberry lemon pie filling, or classic black-and-white cookies for a customized dessert experience.
Craft Beverages for Every Palate
No dining experience is complete without the perfect drink. Tender Crush offers a selection of craft beers on tap from local breweries like Brooklyn Brewery and Coney Island Brewery. For something unique, try their Coney Island Coolers—creative cocktails in flavors like Watermelon Ginger Tequila or Coconut Mango, topped with a dollop of their signature soft serve custard.
A Space That Invites and Inspires
The ambiance at Tender Crush is as memorable as its menu. Designed by the renowned Rockwell Group, the interior is a blend of contemporary and nostalgic. Deep green leather banquettes, walnut wood accents, and bronze fixtures create a cozy yet modern dining environment. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a quick bite to-go, the space adds to the overall experience.
Why Tender Crush Stands Out
In a city where dining options are endless, what makes Tender Crush truly special? It’s their ability to take something familiar—fried chicken—and transform it into a gourmet experience. The restaurant emphasizes quality in every aspect, from the ingredients they source to the way each dish is presented.
Their dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Tender Crush has quickly become a favorite among SoHo locals, food critics, and tourists alike. Reviews often highlight the perfect balance of flavors, the crispiness of the chicken, and the creativity of the menu.
A Must-Visit Destination in SoHo
Tender Crush is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or visiting the city for the first time, a trip to SoHo wouldn’t be complete without trying their famous tenders. From their signature crispy tenders to inventive sides and desserts, every item on the menu offers something unique.
Planning Your Visit
Tender Crush is open daily, offering lunch, dinner, and everything in between. Here’s what you need to know:
- Location: 529 Broome Street, SoHo, NYC
- Hours:
- Sunday–Thursday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
Conclusion
Tender Crush has redefined what it means to enjoy New York style fried chicken at Tender Crush. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that celebrates the flavors and culture of NYC. With a menu that combines tradition and innovation, a welcoming ambiance, and an unwavering commitment to quality, Tender Crush has earned its place as a SoHo staple.
For anyone seeking authentic, creative, and downright delicious fried chicken, Tender Crush is the only name you need to remember. Your journey to discovering the best chicken in New York starts here.
