Affordable and Delicious Jiang-Zhe Cuisine in New Taipei City

Beyond Din Tai Fung Old Favorites and Rising Stars

Among these “mainland” cuisines, Jiang-Zhe cuisine stands out due to historical reasons, along with Sichuan and Beijing cuisines. Jiang-Zhe dishes are particularly prevalent, retaining many traditional elements. The famous Grand Hotel （ 圓山大飯店） , built by Soong Mei-ling in Taipei, features the Yuan Yuan restaurant, a top spot for Jiang-Zhe cuisine and the guardian of her beloved recipe for red bean cake. It’s said that in her later years, while living in Long Island, New York, Yuan Yuan would even air-freight red bean cakes to her for her birthday.

Jiang-Zhe cuisine has gained international fame, with Din Tai Fung being a prime example. Originally known for its dumplings, Din Tai Fung has established a standard for Chinese restaurant management that ensures consistent quality. This standard has influenced what is considered modern Taiwanese Jiang-Zhe cuisine, encompassing options like xiaolongbao, steamed dumplings, fried rice, rib noodles, and clear chicken soup, providing a framework for many new restaurants.

Ye's Luzhou Handmade Xiaolongbao, a beloved neighborhood spot with a history of over 40 years.

Taiwan’s Jiang-Zhe culinary culture is represented by numerous eateries throughout the region. In New Taipei City, particularly in Luzhou, you’ll find many interesting and unique choices that are generally more affordable than in Taipei. Luzhou is home to several shops worth exploring—some have been around for decades, while others have quickly gained popularity.

All of Ye's xiaolongbao are made and steamed fresh to order.

Over 40 Years Ye's Luzhou Handmade Xiaolongbao （ 「葉」蘆洲手工小籠包）

Ye's xiaolongbao may not look impressive, but once you taste them, you'll never forget them.

One of the oldest is Ye's Luzhou Handmade Xiaolongbao , a beloved neighborhood spot with a history of over 40 years. Opening at 6 AM, it often has long lines and sells out before noon. Ye’s dumplings don’t follow the modern, delicate route of Din Tai Fung; instead, they focus on hearty portions and a more rustic style. Despite this rough approach, the flavors are anything but compromised. Each basket contains ten dumplings, each about the size of a golf ball, with skins that vary in thickness and can easily break. However, this doesn’t matter much—the rich, juicy filling ensures every bite is satisfying and flavorful, making for a fulfilling breakfast when paired with soy milk.

Ye's xiaolongbao have a plump and juicy meat filling.

Ye's Luzhou Handmade Xiaolongbao

Address: No. 306, Xinyi Road, Luzhou District, New Taipei City

Telephone: +886 935 723 311

Opening Hours: 06:00-12:00,06:00-12:30(Sat,Sun andHolidays),Closed on Mondays

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Q0935723311/?locale=zh_HK

Opened by Former Din Tai Fung Staff Si Mu Xin Fu （ 四木欣福）

Si Mu Xin Fu on Minzu Road, Luzhou District.

Recently, a new restaurant called Si Mu Xin Fu , opened by former Din Tai Fung staff, has become a sensation on Minzu Road in Luzhou. The small establishment has limited seating, leading to wait times of one to two hours. To accommodate takeout orders, they’ve implemented a QR code system outside the restaurant for easy online ordering. Opened in 2023, Si Mu Xin Fu quickly gained popularity, featuring a menu similar to Din Tai Fung but with its own unique twists. Their standout dish, Peeled Chili Chicken Soup , is exceptional. Other offerings like Pork Rib Fried Rice , Dry Tossed Fresh Meat Wontons , and Cucumber Salad are all well-prepared and imbued with the charm of a smaller eatery.

Peeled Chili Chicken Soup is excellent. Crispy Fried Pork Ribs is delicious.

Si Mu Xin Fu （四木欣福）

Address : 247 No. 248-1, Minzu Rd., Luzhou District, New Taipei City, Taiwan (1F)

Telephone: +886 2 8282 1680

Opening Hours: 11:00-14:00,16:30-20:00 （ Closed on Mondays ）

Website: https://www.instagram.com/4woodsinfu/