
The History behind the Sassy-Cuse Saloon
The birth of Sal's Birdland
In the 1970s, a man named Sal Nalbone had a simple yet groundbreaking idea—create a chicken experience that stood out from the rest. His dream became reality when he opened Sal’s Birdland in Rochester, NY, a humble food stand that quickly gained a cult-like following.What set Sal’s Birdland apart?
✅ Crispy, golden-fried chicken cooked to perfection
✅ Unique house-made sauces with an unforgettable sweet-heat kick
✅ A commitment to quality and consistency that kept customers coming back
Sal’s Birdland wasn’t just a restaurant; it became a staple in Upstate NY, a place where families gathered, friends shared meals, and memories were made.


The creation of Sassy Sauce
The real magic happened when Sal perfected his signature sauce—a one-of-a-kind blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. This wasn’t just any sauce; it was Sassy Sauce—bold, vibrant, and packed with attitude.What made Sassy Sauce legendary?
🌶️ A flavor unlike anything else—sweet, spicy, and savory all in one
🌟 Versatile and addictive—perfect for wings, seafood, burgers, and more
🔥 A secret recipe that stands the test of time
As Sal’s Birdland grew, so did the demand for Sassy Sauce. Fans wanted to take the magic home, leading to its bottling and national distribution. Today, Sassy Sauce is enjoyed across the country, bringing a taste of Upstate NY to tables everywhere.
The next chapter: Sassy-Cuse Saloon
Fast forward to today, and we’re bringing the legacy to Syracuse with a fresh, exciting new concept—Sassy-Cuse Saloon.Here’s what you’ll find inside:
✅ The iconic flavors of Sal’s Birdland & Sassy Sauce
✅ A Western-style saloon vibe with a modern twist
✅ A full bar featuring craft cocktails, whiskey, and cold brews
✅ A lively, welcoming atmosphere with live music & entertainment
Sassy-Cuse Saloon isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. We’re honoring the history of Sal’s Birdland while creating a new gathering place for food lovers, friends, and families right in the heart of Syracuse.

Join us and let's get Sassy!
Whether you’ve been a fan of Sal’s Birdland and Sassy Sauce for decades or you’re just discovering the magic, we invite you to be part of the next chapter. Come for the flavors, stay for the vibes, and let’s get sassy!