The quintessential Taiwanese night market order. A whole chicken breast is hammered flat, marinated in traditional spices, and fried in a coarse batter that creates a shatteringly crisp exterior. Reviewers praise the sheer size and the moisture of the meat inside.
Tips from diners
Ask for the 'plum' seasoning powder — it sounds unusual but the sweet and sour hit works perfectly with the salty fried chicken.
The most Instagrammed item on the menu. A giant chicken breast is stuffed with cheese and fried, resulting in an oozing, gooey center. Reviewers consistently warn that it arrives extremely hot, so wait a minute before taking that first bite.
Tips from diners
Be very careful! The cheese is molten and stays hot for a long time. It's best shared as it's a massive amount of food.
A favored vegetarian side that shows the Taiwanese love for sweet and salty combinations. The sweet potato stays soft and fluffy inside while the exterior achieve a light crunch. Reviewers consistently highlight the plum powder as the essential detail.
Tips from diners
The plum seasoning is mandatory here — it really brings out the natural sweetness of the potato.
Small chunks of chicken thigh marinated in soy and five-spice, fried with fresh basil leaves for a classic Taiwanese aroma. Multiple reviewers call it the best version in London, specifically noting the 'clean' taste of the frying oil and the addictive spice mix.
Tips from diners
This is the best choice if you're eating while walking around Chinatown — it's much easier to manage than the giant breast.
A favorite for seafood lovers. The squid is prepared to ensure it remains tender and juicy, encased in the same crispy Taiwanese-style batter as the chicken. Reviewers note the generous portion size and the bold hit of garlic powder.
Tips from diners
Ask for the 'extra spicy' seasoning if you like a kick — the squid can handle the heat better than the chicken.
Good Friend brings the high-energy fried chicken culture of Taipei's night markets to London. Specializing in 'Volcano' chicken — a giant flattened breast filled with molten cheese — and ultra-crispy popcorn chicken, the shop is a favorite Chinatown pitstop for those seeking a heavy, properly seasoned snack on the go.
It's a tiny, takeaway-only spot with very limited standing space. Order your chicken and head to nearby Leicester Square or a quiet side street to eat.
The line can move slowly because everything is fried to order. Expect a 10-15 minute wait during peak evening hours.
Good news for many: all the chicken served here is halal-certified, which is a big part of why it's so popular with a wide range of Londoners.
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