Lede: Hong Kong fast-casual chain One Congee Noodles (一粥麵) is giving its classic vegetable rice a health-conscious makeover by blending in quinoa, and will celebrate the launch on May 17 with an elaborate Chinese wedding-themed event at Lok Fu Plaza. The promotion features 300 complimentary mini portions of the new quinoa vegetable rice, 500 half-price coupons for the full meal, and an immersive sedan-chair experience complete with an AI photo booth—giving customers a rare chance to sample the upgrade while scoring steep discounts.
A Healthier Upgrade: Quinoa Meets Vegetable Rice
The new quinoa vegetable rice (藜麥菜飯) replaces the chain’s standard version by folding nutrient‑dense quinoa into steamed pearl rice and finely chopped choy sum. The result is a lighter, higher‑fibre base with a subtle nutty aroma and a pleasingly chewy texture that contrasts with the tender grains. “We wanted to modernise a beloved staple without sacrificing taste,” a company representative explained. The rice is cooked in a savoury broth, ensuring every spoonful is infused with umami.
Four Classic Shanghai-Style Accompaniments
To complement the upgraded rice, One Congee Noodles has introduced two new dishes and revived two fan favourites:
- Grandma’s Braised Pork (外婆紅燒肉): Thick-cut pork belly slow‑simmered until the fat turns silky and the skin becomes translucent, lacquered in a glossy soy‑caramel glaze.
- Beijing-Shanghai Fragrant Chicken (京滬香露雞): Poached chicken with a light wine aroma, kept moist and tender.
- Crispy Shanghai Pork Chop (香酥上海排骨): Deep‑fried to a golden crunch, locking in a juicy interior.
- Shanghai‑Style Smoked Fish Fillet (滬式燻魚扒): A thick fish steak marinated in spiced soy sauce, then fried until crisp outside and flaky within.
Each set meal comes with a new sour and spicy soup (酸辣羹) as a palate cleanser. Lunch sets start at HK$49, while dinner sets include a choice of coffee or tea.
‘Quinoa-Rice Wedding’ Celebration: What to Expect
On Sunday, May 17, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, the chain will transform the Lok Fu Plaza atrium and its adjacent store into a whimsical wedding scene. Highlights include:
- Free welcome tasting: 300 miniature bowls of quinoa vegetable rice paired with a bite of Grandma’s Braised Pork will be handed out on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
- 500 half‑price vouchers: Redeemable for any quinoa vegetable rice set meal—valid at all participating outlets.
- Traditional sedan‑chair experience: Guests can board an ornate bridal sedan and be carried by costumed bearers to the restaurant entrance, accompanied by a lively procession.
- AI wedding photo booth: After liking or following One Congee Noodles’ Facebook or Instagram page, visitors can snap a free digital “wedding portrait” with virtual bridal attire.
Ongoing Half-Price Congee Promotions
Beyond the May 17 event, the chain is running a separate four‑week congee deal. From May 4 to May 27, every Monday to Wednesday after 11:00 am, a different congee flavour is offered at half price:
- Week 1 (May 4–6): Dace fish ball and meatball congee – HK$19 (was HK$38)
- Week 2 (May 11–13): Century egg and lean pork congee – HK$18 (was HK$36)
- Week 3 (May 18–20): Coriander and fish congee – HK$18 (was HK$36)
- Week 4 (May 25–27): Coriander, mushroom and minced beef congee – HK$19 (was HK$38)
Terms apply: one bowl per person, dine‑in only, not valid at self‑order kiosks or online platforms. Excludes Hong Kong Station, airport and Tuen Mun Hospital outlets.
Broader Impact and Next Steps
By pairing a trending superfood with a playful, immersive event, One Congee Noodles is betting that health‑minded diners and Instagram‑seeking foodies will flock to its stores. The quinoa rice joins a growing roster of grain‑forward Asian dishes that cater to younger consumers looking for both comfort and nutrition. For readers eager to try the quinoa rice without the crowd, the dish is available from today at all locations except the three excluded outlets. Mark May 17 on your calendar if you want free samples and a shot at those half‑price vouches—arrive early to secure a spot.