Saucy! by KFC is expanding into Tampa Bay, bringing its bold, sauce -forward take on chicken tenders and its high – energy dining experience to the region for the first time. The brand plans to open six locations across Tampa Bay in the coming months, marking a significant next step in its Florida growth.
Saucy! made its Tampa Bay debut at 5706 W. Waters Ave. on January 26, bringing crave-worthy tenders and bold sauces to the West Tampa neighborhood. Fans can soon find Saucy! in Westchase, near USF in Temple Terrace, along Bradenton’s Gulf Coast corridor, in Carrollwood, and in Trinity, with new locations opening on a rolling basis.
Known for its hand – crafted chicken tenders, mood – matching bites, and lineup of more than 12 bold, globally – inspired sauces, Saucy! is designed for guests who want to play with flavor. Each restaurant delivers a modern, tech – forward experience, featuring drive –
thru services, self – serve kiosks, and vibrant spaces built for customization, connection, and fun.
“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 – and Tampa Bay is an exciting next step in that journey, starting in Waters!” said Andrew Grosshans, General Manager at Saucy! in a statement. “Our growth in the market reflects strong enthusiasm for the Saucy! experience and our commitment to expanding thoughtfully in communities where we can show up as a true neighborhood favorite, not just another restaurant. We’re excited to continue building momentum across the Tampa Bay region as we connect with new guests!”
As the brand rolls out across Tampa Bay, Saucy! will take a phased approach to openings. While Waters will introduce the brand to the market,
Temple Terrace and Carrollwood will lead with official Grand Opening celebrations, featuring expanded launch events and guest programming. These events will include live DJs, games and prizes, Sauce Bars showcasing all signature sauces, branded swag, photo opportunities, and a “Free Saucy! for a Year” raffle. Additional details will be announced closer to each opening.
●Waters○Soft Opening: 1/26
●Westchase○Soft Opening: 2/16
●Further openings coming March/ April 2026:Temple Terrace, Carrollwood, Trinity and Bradenton.
Saucy!’s menu is built around customization and flavor exploration, allowing guests to mix and match bases, sauces,and sides to fit their mood. Menu offerings include chicken tenders hand-breaded in-store paired with signature sauces, Chicken Teriyaki Bowls, Chicken Caesar Salad, crispy Brussel Bites and Puffies.Plus, just in time for Valentine’s Day, Saucy! will debut a limited-time menu featuring Puffies served with a decadent chocolate-strawberry dipping sauce, alongside a Strawberry Piña Colada Freeze made with a piña colada base, strawberry purée, and water. The Valentine’s LTOs will be available February 13–15, while supplies last.
Taking “vibe dining” to the next level, Saucy! creates energetic, immersive spaces that blend convenience with culture. Each location features pink-accented interiors, expansive glass façades, and a sleek, modern layout designed to engage every sense. At 8 PM, the lights go down and the vibes go up for a full sensory experience.
For event and menu drop updates, follow along at saucy.kfc.com, or connect with @beboldstaysaucy on Instagram and TikTok for all the latest news and launch details.
