At Edify, it takes something truly unusual or special for us to review a chain spot. We want to dedicate most of our space to the independent restaurateurs and chefs who work to make this city a great food destination.
But, sometimes, there’s buzz that we can’t ignore, or we wonder why the heck some international chain chose to plant their flag here.
That’s the case with Yang’s Braised Chicken Rice, a chain that was born in China in 2011 and has since spread to 6,000 locations worldwide. But, despite its global success, North America still really hasn’t embraced this Chinese giant.
But, the first Yang’s location in Alberta can be found in Downtown Edmonton, a hybrid arrangement with another chain, the Toronto-based Yunshang Rice Noodle. Items from both Yang’s and Yunshang can be found on the hybrid menu. But I wanted to try the staple of the Yang’s menu — the braised chicken with rice. It’s like going to McDonald’s for the first time and making sure you get a Big Mac with fries.
The chicken comes bathed in Yang’s secret sauce, served in a hot iron pot. Mix it with the rice, and you’ve got a pretty substantial meal. You get dark meat, and you can choose either boneless or bone-in. I asked for the mild spice level, and this was a good call, as there were still enough chili peppers in the sauce to get the nose running. There are big hunks of ginger and mushrooms in the mix. The mushrooms soak up the sauce oh so well and transform into salty, earthy pops of goodness.
It’s definitely a big meal, and a great warm-up for a chilly afternoon. I welcome our new Chinese chain-restaurant overlords.
Yang’s Braised Chicken Rice
Downtown | 10167 109 St NW, Edmonton | 587.402.8979 | yangschicken.ca
