Korean Chicken in Tampa: bb.q Chicken food review

TAMPA (BLOOM) – If you’re craving some finger-licking good chicken with a twist, look no further than bb.q Chicken in Northdale Tampa.

My girlfriend and I had the pleasure of visiting this underrated Korean fried chicken joint, and it’s safe to say we left with full bellies and big smiles.

Before diving into the details, let me just say this: I have been converted. The best fried chicken I have ever had was at this restaurant, and the Korean way of doing it is simply better. I’m almost upset that I’ve gone my whole life without experiencing this level of fried chicken perfection. It’s not just about the taste, but the entire experience that bb.q Chicken offers.

American vs. Korean Fried Chicken

American-style fried chicken is a beloved classic known for its thick, crispy breading and juicy interior. Typically, it’s heavily seasoned and often a bit greasy, providing that indulgent comfort food experience we all know and love.

Korean fried chicken, however, takes it to another level. The chicken is double-fried, which results in an incredibly crispy exterior that stays crunchy even after being coated in a variety of sauces. This method also ensures that the chicken is not greasy, offering a lighter but still juicy bite. Korean fried chicken sauces range from sweet and tangy to spicy, providing a burst of flavors that dance on your taste buds. The meticulous preparation, including brining and seasoning, infuses the chicken with deep, rich flavors that make each bite a delightful experience.

In short, while American fried chicken satisfies with its hearty crunch and savory taste, Korean fried chicken elevates the experience with its perfect crunch, flavorful coatings, and a surprisingly light feel.

The Vibe

From the moment we walked in, the Korean theme was unmistakable. The restaurant is adorned with graffiti-style murals, anime drawings, and neon signs, creating a fun atmosphere. K-pop videos played on screens around the restaurant, adding to the energetic vibe. We even spotted a few karaoke rooms – perfect for belting out your favorite tunes after a delicious meal. The bar, featuring soju and Korean beer, was a highlight and definitely worth a visit.

The Feast

We decided to go all out and try every wing flavor on the menu. The wings were a revelation – juicy, crunchy, and not the least bit greasy. It’s a refreshing departure from the American-style fried chicken we’re used to. Our favorite flavor? The cheeseling wings. Imagine the comforting taste of mac and cheese, but on a perfectly fried wing. It’s as amazing as it sounds.

Here’s a rundown of our feast:

• Wings : We tried them all, and they were all winners. From the spicy to the sweet, every bite was packed with flavor. They have full chicken, wings, and boneless options.
• Crab Rangoons : Crispy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
• Kimchi Fried Rice : A hearty bowl topped with a perfectly cooked egg. The tangy kimchi added a delightful kick.
• Watermelon Soju : My girlfriend’s favorite. A whole watermelon hollowed out and filled with a refreshing blend of soju and watermelon – it was like a summer cocktail dream come true.

The Service

Special shoutout to Tony, the passionate franchise owner we met during our visit. Tony’s enthusiasm for bb.q Chicken and fried chicken in general was infectious. He explained that their chicken is seasoned and brined slowly to ensure depth of flavor, which means a longer wait time but trust me, it’s worth every minute. The dedication to quality is evident in every bite.

The Verdict

Bb.q Chicken has set the bar high for fried chicken. With everything made to order, you’re guaranteed a fresh and flavorful meal every time. Plus, the prices are reasonable – making it a no-brainer over fast-food chains like Popeyes and KFC. We had so much food that we ended up taking home five boxes!

If you haven’t tried bb.q Chicken yet, you’re missing out. I highly recommend it for a fun night out or even a quick takeout meal. The quality and flavor will leave you coming back for more. I just wish there was a location closer to me because I’d be a regular!

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