In the heart of SoHo, New York City’s most iconic dining district, Tender Crush is rewriting the rules of comfort food. Chicken tenders—a childhood favorite turned guilty pleasure—have been elevated to an art form in this groundbreaking restaurant. Opened on September 26, 2024, at 529 Broome Street, Tender Crush offers more than just fried chicken; it delivers a culinary experience that is innovative, nostalgic, and utterly irresistible.
The minds behind Tender Crush, Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan, are no strangers to culinary success. Having conquered the burger world with Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, the duo set their sights on another American classic. With a touch of creativity and the culinary expertise of Executive Chef Stephen Parker, Tender Crush was born, combining quality ingredients, inventive recipes, and a deep respect for New York City’s diverse food culture.
The Mission to Redefine Comfort Food
At Tender Crush, the chicken tender is reimagined as a versatile culinary canvas. The restaurant’s mission is clear: to take a universally loved dish and transform it into something extraordinary. Unlike traditional fast-food fare, every element of Tender Crush’s offerings is carefully crafted to surprise and delight diners. From the brining process to the seasoning blends, the team pays meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each bite is a revelation.
Chicken tenders are available in two signature preparations:
- Crispy Tenders: Brined in club soda and buttermilk batter, then fried to perfection for a crunchy, golden crust.
- Grilled Tenders: Marinated in a zesty lemon-and-spice blend and grilled to juicy tenderness, offering a lighter yet equally flavorful option.
The Neighborhood Inspiration: House Hits
A defining feature of Tender Crush’s menu is its “House Hits”—a collection of tender dishes inspired by New York City’s neighborhoods. These selections are more than just meals; they’re edible homages to the city’s cultural diversity.
- Harlem Hot: A Buffalo-style hot sauce topped with scallions and paired with whipped blue cheese for a creamy kick.
- Thai Queens: A sweet chili pop flavored with scallion, fresh lime, and cilantro, echoing the vibrant flavors of Queens.
- Jackson Heights Heat: A fiery bird pepper sauce balanced with kosher pickles, fresh chives, and white barbecue sauce.
Each sauce tells a story, capturing the essence of its namesake neighborhood. These dishes aren’t just delicious—they’re a celebration of NYC’s culinary heritage.
Beyond Tenders: The Art of the Sandwich
Tender Crush expands its menu with a selection of mouthwatering sandwiches. These creations take the classic fried chicken sandwich to new heights, blending bold flavors and premium ingredients:
- Staten Island Crunch: Featuring the restaurant’s signature Staten Island hot sauce, parmesan cheese, roasted garlic, broccolini, vinegar-roasted tomatoes, and provolone. This sandwich combines Italian-inspired flavors with a hearty crunch.
- Old School NY Crush: A nod to tradition, this sandwich features mayo, vinegar, lettuce, tomatoes, and kosher pickle slices on a soft Parker House roll.
Every sandwich is designed to deliver a balance of texture, flavor, and nostalgia, making it a star attraction on the menu.
Sides That Steal the Spotlight
Sides are often overlooked, but at Tender Crush, they shine just as brightly as the main dishes. Each side dish is thoughtfully created to complement the restaurant’s centerpiece offerings:
- Williamsburg Waffle Fries: Crispy, golden, and seasoned to perfection, these fries are a fan favorite.
- Park Slope Spicy Kale: A healthy yet flavorful option that pairs well with the grilled tenders.
- Tribeca Truffle Mac: Rich, indulgent, and bursting with the umami of truffle oil, this mac and cheese is a must-try.
- Chinatown Broccolini: A fresh, vibrant dish that adds a touch of greenery to your plate.
These sides provide a perfect balance to the bold flavors of the chicken tenders and sandwiches.
The Sweet Finale: Desserts That Delight
Tender Crush doesn’t stop at savory dishes; their desserts are as creative and customizable as the rest of the menu. The soft-serve vanilla custard is a standout, offering a variety of topping options for a playful, personalized experience. Choices include:
- Black-and-white cookies
- Funfetti cake crumbs
- Blueberry lemon pie filling
These toppings allow diners to craft a dessert that’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious, making it the perfect way to end a meal.
Sip, Savor, and Relax: The Beverage Menu
Tender Crush’s beverage program adds another layer of indulgence to the dining experience. Guests can enjoy local craft beers from iconic NYC breweries like Coney Island Brewery and Brooklyn Brewery, or opt for one of the restaurant’s signature Coney Island Coolers.
Available in fun flavors like Orange Crush Vodka, Watermelon Ginger Tequila, and Coconut Mango, these coolers are refreshing and flavorful. For a unique twist, diners can add a dollop of vanilla soft-serve custard to their drink, creating a delightful fusion of beverage and dessert.
The Perfect SoHo Atmosphere
The restaurant’s location in SoHo adds to its appeal. Known for its vibrant arts and dining scene, SoHo provides the perfect backdrop for Tender Crush’s innovative concept. The interior design reflects this, blending modern elements with warm, inviting touches. Subtle nods to New York City’s culture are woven into the décor, creating a space where diners feel at home while enjoying a meal that feels anything but ordinary.
Hours and Accessibility
Tender Crush caters to both lunch and dinner crowds, with operating hours that suit every schedule:
- Sunday to Thursday: 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 12 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Its central location in SoHo makes it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike, whether you’re exploring the neighborhood’s boutiques or looking for a pre-theater meal.
What Sets Tender Crush Apart?
In a city with no shortage of dining options, Tender Crush manages to stand out. Its focus on quality, creativity, and storytelling has redefined what a fried chicken restaurant can be. By infusing every dish with a sense of place and purpose, Tender Crush turns a simple meal into a culinary adventure.
The restaurant’s dedication to using premium ingredients and offering bold, inventive flavors ensures that every visit feels special. Whether you’re indulging in the Harlem Hot tenders or savoring a Staten Island Crunch sandwich, each bite is a testament to the team’s passion and expertise.
Conclusion: A Culinary Destination in SoHo
Tender Crush is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of comfort food, creativity, and New York City’s rich culinary heritage. From its meticulously prepared chicken tenders to its inventive sides, sandwiches, and desserts, Tender Crush offers a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.
For those eager to explore how a humble chicken tender can be transformed into a gourmet delight, Tender Crush is a must-visit. By redefining SoHo dining at Tender Crush, Chris Barish, Julie Mulligan, and Chef Stephen Parker have set a new standard for what casual dining can achieve. Make your way to SoHo, and let Tender Crush take you on a flavorful journey through the city that never sleeps.