The founder of the plant-based chicken sandwich concept Project Pollo is testing a new brand called Side Chicks.
And it serves real chicken. From animals.
Project Pollo founder Lucas Bradbury is taking some heat on social media for the move, which he explains was necessary to keep the business viable.
Last week, Bradbury said he would test the new Side Chicks in San Antonio, according to the San Antonio Current. The location that was the chain’s first brick-and-mortar after first launching as a food truck was rebranded last week as Side Chicks to test the new menu, which includes both real chicken and vegan alternatives. Project Pollo uses Tindle’s plant-based chicken.
“When we started Project Pollo, we wanted to create a platform that could serve as many people plant-based foods as possible. And that’s just not going to happen with a 100% vegan concept, because you’re reaching such a small percentage of the population,” Bradbury told the SA Current.
If successful, Bradbury said he is considering expansion, though it’s not clear whether adding the real-chicken option to the menu at Project Pollo’s 14 locations across Texas is being considered.
On the menu for Side Chicks are sandwiches like The Sancha, which includes hand-breaded fried chicken with house pickles, habanero seasoning and Japanese mayo. Chicken nuggets and wings are also available with a number of sauces, from spicy Buffalo to mango habanero, according to SA Current.
Bradbury appeared on the ABC reality show “Shark Tank” last year to pitch Project Pollo. The chain has grown to include locations across Texas, and the website indicates a Project Pollo is scheduled to open in Las Vegas later this year.
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