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Good Friend ChickenCMixed Bag

Name: Good Friend Chicken
Address: 14 Little Newport St, London WC2H 7JJ, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.3

14 Little Newport St, London WC2H 7JJ · Fried chicken takeaway, Fast food restaurant · 4.3/5 Google (1543 reviews)

Delivery · Takeout

Good Friend Chicken delivers bold, customizable fried chicken snacks in Chinatown, but recurring food safety and service issues mean it's best for adventurous eaters who value flavor over polish.

Why it gets a C for overall quality

Good Friend Chicken delivers on its core promise—exceptional popcorn chicken with bold, customizable flavors and vibrant Chinatown location appeal that draws crowds. However, recurring food safety issues including undercooked chicken and inconsistent cooking quality during peak hours significantly undermine the experience. The chaotic, cramped environment and recent downward trend in quality and value further limit its standing as a reliable dining destination, despite strong social media appeal.

Restaurant Summary

Good Friend Chicken is a Chinatown staple for those craving bold, customizable fried chicken snacks. The popcorn chicken—crispy, juicy, and endlessly adaptable with a rainbow of seasonings—has earned cult status among locals and tourists alike. Expect a high-energy, bustling atmosphere with queues snaking out the door, especially during peak hours. The shop is tiny, with limited seating and a fast-casual, counter-service setup, so most diners grab their food to go or perch by the window for a quick bite. The culinary approach here is fusion street food with a Taiwanese twist, offering everything from classic crispy chicken breast to adventurous options like volcanic cheesy chicken and garlic chicken gizzard. This is a paradise for snackers and foodies who love to experiment with flavors—just don't expect white tablecloths or a quiet meal. The menu is halal-certified and includes some vegetarian sides, but the focus is squarely on fried chicken in all its forms. Portion sizes are generous for the price, though recent price hikes have drawn some grumbles. For families: Good Friend Chicken is kid-friendly in terms of food—popcorn chicken, nuggets, and sweet potato are all hits with younger diners. Several reviews mention sharing snacks with children and praise the portion sizes for families. However, the crowded, chaotic environment and lack of seating may be challenging for those with small kids or strollers. The menu offers enough familiar options for picky eaters, but the overall experience is best for families comfortable with a fast-paced, takeaway vibe.

At a Glance

Popcorn chicken is a must-try—crispy, juicy, and customizable.
Generous portions and wide range of seasonings.
Recurring reports of undercooked chicken and inconsistent food safety.
Service can be rushed or unfriendly, especially during busy times.
High tourist volume and social media-driven crowds—expect queues and a chaotic atmosphere.

What Sets It Apart

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popcorn_chicken_specialty
halal_certification

What People Love

The addictive popcorn chicken and creative seasoning choices
Big portions that satisfy even hearty appetites
The fun, bustling Chinatown location
Being able to try something new every visit
Halal certification and some vegetarian-friendly sides

Points of Concern

Multiple credible reports of undercooked or raw chicken, especially during peak hours—food safety is a real risk.
Service can be abrupt or dismissive, with some staff showing little patience for complaints.
Long queues and cramped space make for a stressful experience at busy times.
Recent price increases have made some items feel less like a bargain.

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost£12-16 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Stick to popcorn chicken or crispy chicken breast for best results.
Vegetarians can try crispy tofu or sweet potato, but options are limited.
Skip the bubble tea unless you're feeling adventurous.
Check your order before leaving, especially during busy times.

Perfect For

Grabbing a quick, flavorful snack while exploring Chinatown
Foodies seeking unique fried chicken and fusion street food
Groups of friends on a food crawl or late-night adventure
Solo diners wanting a fast, satisfying bite

Location Insights

Area: Bustling, high-foot-traffic Chinatown area popular with tourists, students, and locals seeking quick eats.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, but crowded; occasional reports of pickpocketing due to congestion.

Nearby: Surrounded by Asian restaurants, dessert shops, bubble tea cafes, and souvenir stores; near Leicester Square and West End theatres.

ChinatownA compact, bustling neighborhood featuring authentic Asian restaurants, specialty shops, and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. Known for its dense concentration of Chinese and pan-Asian dining establishments and lively street scene.

Leicester SquareA highly trafficked entertainment hub with numerous restaurants, theaters, and cultural attractions, situated at the heart of London's West End.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–21:00 Tuesday12:00–21:00 Wednesday12:00–21:00 Thursday12:00–21:00 Friday11:30–21:00 Saturday11:30–22:00 Sunday11:30–21:00

Available: Delivery, Takeout

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