Named after the coastal city of Si Racha of eastern Thailand, Sriracha hot sauce knocks it to you with chili pepper paste and distilled vinegar. First produced and served at local Thai seafood restaurants, “the rooster bottle” has since ballooned to foodie fame and glory—now a ubiquitous condiment accompanying a sundry of dishes for a dash of disaster.

 Photo 1

HOT DOGGY 

Serving up gourmet hot dogs and island fusion, this tropical food truck throws a party in a bun. The Thai Hot Dog packs in traditional Asian flavors into the all-American classic. Toppings include peanut sauce, carrots, cilantro, crispy noodle and Sriracha. Served with homemade pineapple coleslaw on the side to pair perfectly with the heat.  Croz’s Surfshack, $8, Sarasota, 941-586-3023 (Found at Fruitville Grove Farm Market a lot.)


Photo 2

HOLY CHICK

Feel like a kid again ordering the chicken nugget meal, but be aware these chicken nuggets come with a kick in the mouth at this new sports bar. The free-range chicken is hand breaded and tossed in a house-made Sriracha honey glaze. Gulf Gate Food + Beer, 6pc- $5.5, 12pc- $9.5, 6528 Superior Ave., Sarasota, 941-952-3361. 


Photo 3

THE BIG TUNA

Have your hands do the talking with the Wonton Tuna Tacos at this Siesta retreat. The spread of tacos reveals fresh, raw sushi grade tuna chopped and topped with a bit of soy, plus nicely spiced guacamole, wasabi aioli and Sriracha, combated with cool crisp cucumber pieces in Hoisin vinaigrette to play off the spicy elements. The Cottage, $13, 153 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key, 941-312-9300.