Lao Xiang Ji (老乡鸡)

Lao Xiang Ji (老乡鸡) is an Anhui-born fast-casual chain founded in the Hefei area, with multiple branches across Hefei, Anhui, China. The listed coordinates point to central Hefei rather than a single branch, so visitors should pick a nearby branch on a map app. Diners rate it about 4.1. It serves Anhui home-style dishes and chicken soup at low prices, and as a chain it has no chef-driven or Michelin context. The signature dishes are stewed chicken soup, Anhui-style stir-fries and rice sets. The chicken soup is the emblematic item, presenting the home-style stewed chicken that gives the brand its name, and the rice sets combine a main dish, vegetables and rice in a single tray. The dining room follows a fast-casual format: bright, clean, self-service or kiosk ordering, quick turnover and moderate noise; dress is casual and solo diners are common. Beverages are limited to soft drinks, soy milk and tea, with no notable wine programme. Hours are about 7AM to 10PM daily, so breakfast is available. There are no reservations; orders are placed at a kiosk or through a WeChat mini-program. Sets cost around CNY 25-40 (about $4-6), which makes it one of the cheapest sit-down meals in the city. It suits travellers who want a reliable, inexpensive meal with a menu that is easier to navigate than many independent restaurants. Searching the Chinese name in the Dianping (大众点评) or Meituan (美团) app shows the nearest branch, current hours and menu photos, and both apps accept foreign-issued cards through Alipay or WeChat Pay once linked.