Saucy! by KFC is making a bold entrance into the Tampa Bay area, announcing plans to open six new locations throughout the region over the coming months. This expansion marks a significant step in the brand’s growth in Florida, promising its unique take on chicken tenders and a high-energy dining experience to local customers for the first time.
The inaugural location opened at 5706 W. Waters Ave. on January 26, 2024, introducing a menu focused on crave-worthy tenders paired with globally inspired sauces. Future openings are set for areas including Westchase, near USF in Temple Terrace, along the Gulf Coast in Bradenton, in Carrollwood, and in Trinity. Each restaurant will roll out on a phased schedule, with the next soft opening planned for February 16, 2024, in Westchase.
Dynamic Dining Experience and Menu Variety
Saucy! is known for its hand-crafted chicken tenders and a selection of over twelve bold sauces, designed for guests who enjoy experimenting with flavors. The restaurants offer a modern dining experience featuring drive-thru services, self-serve kiosks, and vibrant interiors aimed at fostering connection and enjoyment.
In a statement, Andrew Grosshans, General Manager at Saucy!, expressed excitement about the brand’s expansion, stating, “At Saucy! by KFC, we’re focused on bringing the best-tasting chicken tenders and signature sauces to new guests through a high-energy, flavor-forward experience designed to invite exploration.” He emphasized the brand’s commitment to becoming a neighborhood favorite rather than just another restaurant.
As Saucy! establishes its presence in Tampa Bay, each new location will feature grand opening events with festivities such as live DJs, games, and prizes. Special highlights will include “Sauce Bars” showcasing the brand’s signature sauces and a raffle for “Free Saucy! for a Year.” Specific details regarding these events will be announced closer to each opening.
Menu Highlights and Seasonal Offerings
Saucy! offers a diverse menu that encourages customization, allowing guests to mix and match bases, sauces, and sides to suit their preferences. Notable menu items include hand-breaded chicken tenders, Chicken Teriyaki Bowls, Chicken Caesar Salad, crispy Brussels Bites, and Puffies.
In celebration of Valentine’s Day, the brand will introduce a limited-time menu featuring Puffies served with a chocolate-strawberry dipping sauce, alongside a Strawberry Piña Colada Freeze available from February 13 to 15, 2024, while supplies last.
Each Saucy! location is designed to create an immersive dining atmosphere, characterized by pink-accented interiors and expansive glass facades. As evening approaches, the venues transform, with lights dimming to enhance the lively ambiance.
To stay updated on event details and menu announcements, customers can visit saucy.kfc.com or follow the brand on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok at @beboldstaysaucy.
With this expansion, Saucy! by KFC aims to make a significant impact in the Tampa Bay food scene, providing a fresh and exciting dining option for residents and visitors alike.
