A Fried Chicken Giant From China Is Coming to Convoy

One of China’s largest chains, with more than 20,000 locations around the globe, is targeting San Diego as an expansion site as the brand makes its way into the U.S. Joining its recently launched outposts in Chicago and Silicon Valley, Zhengxin Chicken Steak is opening a branch in Kearny Mesa, where the fast-food restaurant is replacing Mochinut in the Convoy Street plaza that also holds Uncle Tetsu, Kura Revolving Sushi, and Dumpling Inn.

Its menu hinges on chicken “steaks”, aka chicken breast cutlets that have been marinated and then coated in panko breadcrumbs. Fried fresh to order, the chicken comes with seasoning powders in flavor options like sweet plum, spicy, and cumin. The chain also serves fried chicken sandwiches, bento boxes filled with basil teriyaki chicken or fried tofu, and snacks ranging from chicken nuggets to sweet potato fries and sesame balls.

Beverages include oolong milk tea and rose lychee green tea, while desserts revolve around a warm weather favorite — aiyu jelly — topped with everything from honey boba and mochi to hawthorn flakes, mango, and red beans.