Tampa’s King of the Coop Shuts Down Seminole Heights Location After Six Months

The popular chicken joint King of the Coop has closed its doors at 4815 N Nebraska Ave. after a short stint. This marks another step back as the business shrinks to just one spot in Tampa Bay.

Owner Joe Dodd posted on social media to share the reason - it boiled down to staff pay. "The thought of continuing with the very real risk of not being able to pay them is something we simply can't do," he posted on social media.

Moving into the former Nebraska Mini Mart space - previously a lively spot with games and family fun - the restaurant served up Nashville-style chicken while trying out new items like meatless options.

Since 2019, King of the Coop introduced Nashville hot chicken to Tampa for the first time. They grew into St. Pete, Soho, and Ybor City food halls, grabbing several "Best of the Bay" awards along the way.

Before shutting down, they served up both fan favorites and new creations. Hot chicken tenders came with crispy fries and rich mac and cheese, plus daily specials that kept customers coming back.

Now their last remaining spot is at Mulberry's Depot 303 food hall. You can find them at 303 NW 1st Ave, where Dodd also runs his sandwich shop, Bottega Porchetta.

As more Tampa Bay restaurants close, small food businesses fight to stay afloat amid rising costs in a tough market. The Nebraska Avenue closing follows this trend.

“I’m not sure what this means for the future of King of the Coop in Tampa, or if there’s even a place for it in Tampa." Dodd told Creative Loafing. "But at the end of the day, all I can be is thankful and hopeful.”

Looking to get King of the Coop food? Dodd still handles catering and runs pop-ups - reach out at joe@kingofthecoop.com. Meanwhile, the Mulberry location keeps serving up their spicy chicken.