I live in Syracuse. I go to Tully’s with my family probably once a month, so I get it and I know what you’re thinking — it’s Tully’s Tenders. What’s the big deal?
But there’s something about having Tully’s Tenders at the New York State Fair that’s significant to me. They’re just one of those quintessential Fair foods.
Pizza fritte. A State Fair sausage sandwich. Tully’s Tenders. You have to have them.
And this year, Tully’s is doing something they’ve never done before at the Fair: Buffalo Tenders.
So obviously, I had to try them.
Tully’s Buffalo Tenders
These things are so delicious, and exactly what you want a Buffalo Tender to be.
They’re buttery and slightly spicy, with a nice hit of vinegar and pepper. Super crunchy, juicy and just overall delicious.
But while I was in the kitchen filming them making my order, I met someone who made me appreciate those tenders a little bit more.
His name is Stephen.
Stephen has worked at Tully’s Erie Boulevard location for 15 years, and I honestly don’t think I’ve ever met anybody with more pride for the restaurant where they work and the product they’re making.
I watched him make my tenders, and the amount of care this guy puts into it is incredible.
He was intentional about selecting the best-looking tenders for me. Then he walked me through their entire process — how they dry the tenders before the wet brine, then add the dry ingredients before finally putting them in the deep fryer. And the entire time, you could tell how much he cared about getting it right.
They’re chicken tenders. But to Stephen, they’re his chicken tenders, and he wants them to be the best chicken tenders he can possibly give you.
I love that.
Stephen is the kind of guy anyone would be lucky to have on their team, and Tully’s is very fortunate to have him on theirs.
So if you’re heading out to the New York State Fair, stop by the Tully’s Tender Booth and try the new Buffalo Tenders.
They’re crunchy. They’re juicy. They’re buttery. They’ve got just enough heat…. And hopefully, Stephen’s making yours.
