A new fast-casual restaurant concept from KFC has arrived in Jacksonville, as Saucy! by KFC opens at St. Johns Town Center with a menu centered on chicken tenders, signature sauces, and customizable meals.
The concept differs from a traditional KFC by offering a more streamlined, sauce-forward menu that allows customers to build meals through dipping, wraps, sandwiches, and bowls.
According to Christine Guiang, Senior Marketing Manager for Saucy! by KFC, the brand was developed in response to changing consumer preferences.
“We saw a clear shift toward bold flavors, customization, and food that feels social and expressive,” Guiang said.
Florida served as the launch market for the concept, which debuted in Orlando in December 2024. Company officials cited the state’s diverse food culture and consumer trends as factors in choosing Florida for the initial rollout.
Jacksonville was selected for expansion because of its continued growth and evolving dining market, Guiang said.
Popular menu offerings include the brand’s signature Saucy! Sauce, Creole Honey Mustard, and Korean Sweet Heat. In addition to traditional tenders, the menu also features rice bowls and Chick’itos, a wrap-style menu item.
Combo meals begin at approximately $8.99 and include tenders, fries, and a drink.
The Jacksonville restaurant is one of 10 Saucy! locations now operating in Florida. A second Jacksonville location is expected to open soon in Julington Creek, with additional Florida openings planned in Tampa and Orlando-area markets.
The company also plans to open its first non-Florida location in Frisco, Texas later this year.
As competition in the fast-casual chicken market continues to grow, Saucy! enters Jacksonville with a concept aimed at customers seeking greater menu customization and flavor variety in a quick-service setting.