Gasparilla isn’t the only reason to get sauced in Tampa this week. Saucy! by KFC has now opened its first Tampa store at 5706 W. Waters Ave., with a second location opening at Westchase on February 16.
The new fast-casual restaurant has a few dozen items listed on the menu, but the entire concept revolves around two things: crispy, hand-battered fried chicken tenders, and the dozen-plus sauces they’d like you to dip those tendies in. You can order the tenders on their own with dipping sauces and fries, or you can level up with the “chick’itos” (tacos), “grand’itos” (burritos), sandwiches, rice bowls or salads, all loaded up with tenders and sauce.
The idea is to “bring a modern, experiential approach to fast food,” according to the company. KFC isn’t necessarily the most creative fast food chain around, but it’s worth remembering that KFC and Saucy!’s parent company is Yum! Brands, which also owns Taco Bell. Say what you like about fast food chains, but I’ll always put respect on the name of the company that gave us the Doritos Locos Taco and the Crunchwrap Supreme.
Offerings include saucy kimchi chicken tacos, ranchero chicken burritos, or even a saucy chicken Caesar salad. Sides include crinkle cut fries, brussels sprouts, mac and cheese, and King’s Hawaiian toast…