Every time I pass by the intersection of Lane 16 on Qingcheng Street during lunchtime, I always see a long queue. At first, I didn't know what they were queuing for, but my curiosity got the best of me, and I went to check it out. It turns out it's a restaurant selling Hainan chicken rice called Qingcheng Hainan Chicken Rice, which is quite easy to remember. The crowd is just overwhelming, though. Every time I feel like eating there, I give up when I see the long queue. Even though I know they have a high turnover rate and serve food quickly, I'm just too lazy to wait.
Coincidentally, this time I had something to do nearby, and I checked the time—it was already past the lunch break for office workers, so there shouldn't be as many people, right? I went straight to Qingcheng Hainan Chicken Rice, and as expected, everything went smoothly. No need to wait in line, no need to find a seat and wait for it to clear. I could relax and enjoy my meal without feeling rushed or stared at by others, which always makes digestion easier.
The menu options are also very simple, just Meal 1 and Meal 2 (with vegetables), the only difference being the presence of side dishes. You can also order additional chicken and side dishes separately if you want. It's simple and straightforward, so sometimes you don't need too many choices.
For takeout orders, you need to inform the staff if you want sauce, while for dine-in, you can help yourself to the sauce station, but it's best to use it judiciously and avoid waste. The green sauce is almost universally scooped by everyone, except for friends who don't like scallions.
The chicken soup base is very rich, and the actual soup may vary depending on the day. Complimentary soup is available for you to enjoy, but it's also important not to waste it.
The chicken is handled very well, with no off-flavors, and it's tender and juicy without being dry, offering a delightful chewiness. The rice is individually distinct, slightly firm, with a hint of fragrant chicken oil. As for the side dishes, they're pretty standard. Some people might find the meal a bit heavy after finishing it.
Adding sauce leans towards a stronger flavor profile, so it's a matter of personal preference whether you'll enjoy it. After finishing your meal, you're responsible for clearing your own tableware. The environment is okay; although it looks bright, the cleanliness might not always keep up, resulting in slightly dirty tabletops and floors.
If I were to go again, I'd probably go at a different time to avoid the queue. There's no need to spend so much time waiting in line!
慶城海南雞飯
電話：0287121200
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