Tender Crush Opens in Soho, Brings Crispy Chicken and Bold Flavors
A New Journey for Chicken Tender Lovers
Chicken tender lovers unite! The minds behind Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer have opened a new establishment in Soho that embodies all things chicken tender. Tender Crush officially opened for business on September 26, with a menu that comprises Black Tap cofounders Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan’s original take on New York-style crispy chicken. This marks the beginning of the opening of Tender Crush, a year before Black Tap’s 10th anniversary in March 2025.
Menu Highlights
The Tender Crush menu was developed by Black Tap Executive Chef Stephen Parker, bringing bold flavors and flair to the classic tender. The chicken is available either brined in a club soda and buttermilk batter then fried to a crispy, unbeatable crunch; or marinated in a house blend of lemon and spices and finished over the grill. Both styles can be enjoyed with a variety of house-made dips, such as Buttermilk Dill, Sweet Chili Pop, and Lime Honey Mustard, or on their own.
House Hits
The House Hits menu features three tender pieces tossed in Tender Crush’s signature sauces, each inspired by New York City: Harlem Hot, Thai Queens, Jackson Heights Heat, K-Town Hot, 32nd St. BBQ, and BKLYN ‘Q. Each sauce is designed to highlight the region’s unique flavors and spices.
Crispy Chicken Sandwiches and Sides
Apart from the tenders, the menu features Crispy Chicken Sandwiches: the Hot Crush, the Staten Island Crunch, and the Old School NY Crush. These mouthwatering sandwiches are served on Parker House rolls, accompanied by a variety of sides, including Williamsburg Waffle Fries, Park Slope Spicy Kale, Tribeca Truffle Mac, and Chinatown Broccolini. The dessert menu offers soft serve vanilla custard that can be topped with black and white cookies, funfetti cake crumbs, blueberry lemon pie filling, and more.
Beverage Program
Like Black Tap, Tender Crush offers a beverage program, featuring local beers on tap, including those from Coney Island Brewery and Brooklyn Brewery. Guests can also choose from Coney Island Coolers in Orange Crush Vodka, Watermelon Ginger Tequila, and Coconut Mango, which can be served with a dollop of soft serve on top.
Location and Hours
Tender Crush is located at 529 Broome Street and is open from Sunday to Thursday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday to Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. For more information, visit Tender Crush’s website or follow them on Instagram @tendercrush.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Tender Crush? A: Tender Crush is a new restaurant in Soho that specializes in chicken tenders with a variety of flavors and sauces.
Q: What is the menu like? A: The menu features crispy chicken tenders, Crispy Chicken Sandwiches, house-made dips, and a variety of sides, including waffle fries, spicy kale, truffle mac, and broccolini.
Q: What kind of beverages are available? A: Tender Crush offers a beverage program with local beers, Coney Island Coolers, and other craft drinks.
Q: How do I get to Tender Crush? A: Tender Crush is located at 529 Broome Street, open from Sunday to Thursday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday to Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
