Ang Lee insists on eating this too — 80-year-old Danzhou’s small-squid rice noodles from a historic eatery

Text & photos /DaKou

Danzhou has countless local snacks, but today we’re highlighting one with an 80-year heritage: the classic coastal Danzhou delicacy “Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles”! The Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles can be said to be Taiwan’s very first eatery to serve this dish, and it’s now run by the third generation. It’s even reportedly a snack that director Ang Lee specifically requested to try.

This “Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles” shop only serves two dishes: small-squid rice noodles and small-squid soup. The broth is deliciously savory, the small squids are plump, tender and crispy, and the rice noodles are soft, chewy, and slightly sweet. One bite is absolutely soul-stirring and unforgettable — sipping the light and sweet soup in the summer is especially satisfying. Let’s take a closer look at just how delicious the Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles really are.

%The Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles is located in the bustling downtown area of Tainan. It's always packed with long queues on weekends, but the turnover rate is quite fast, so you won’t have to wait too long.

%Established back in 1935, the Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles is now celebrating its 80th year in business. It's currently under the management of the third generation. Dine-in customers may need to queue up briefly at the entrance, while those getting takeout can order and pick up their meals from the left side of the counter — the staff will pack your order according to your needs.

%This is the third-generation branch — as you can see, the huge pot of small-squid rice noodles has already been reduced by a third, showing just how popular it is.

%The Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles only has this one location and no other branches.　

%Business hours are daily from 8:30 AM until sold out — usually they’re gone by the afternoon. Be quick if you want to try it.

%There aren’t many options here — only small-squid soup and small-squid rice noodles — so there’s no menu needed.

%You’ll notice a lot of repeat customers here, including many from the third generation of the same families — another sign of its immense popularity.

%You can add a bit of chili sauce if you like. We tried some.

%We ordered both the small-squid soup and small-squid rice noodles — both were NT$50.

%The small-squid soup features tender squid and chewy rice noodles, all served in a flavorful broth, and you can also see bits of squid ink inside.

%The broth is clear and not overly oily. Each spoonful bursts with freshness and leaves a refreshing aftertaste.

%The small squids are very springy and chewy — the more you chew, the more their natural sweetness comes through.

%The rice noodles are also quite thin and soft, yet firm enough to hold the broth well.

%If you come during peak hours, you might have to line up for a bit, but the line moves quickly, and the reward is worth it.

%Once you take a bite, the flavors burst in your mouth — rich, savory, and satisfying. There’s a hint of umami from the squid and a nice texture from the noodles.

%If you don’t like overly fishy seafood, don’t worry — the squid here doesn’t have a strong odor. Instead, it’s fresh and savory with a nice natural sweetness.

%The rice noodles and squid together create a great mix of textures in your mouth. Once coated with the savory-sweet broth, they become even more flavorful.

“Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles” has a simple and clean environment, complemented by cool indoor air conditioning — it feels refreshing even in summer. The squid here is first blanched and then chilled, and only reheated in the hot broth when ordered, which helps preserve its tenderness. The broth is sweet and savory with a hint of black pepper aroma, the thick-cut squid is tender and crispy, and the rice noodles are soft, smooth, and chewy. This simple yet delicious combination has been passed down for 80 years — a timeless coastal treat definitely worth trying.

Ye Family Small-Squid Rice Noodles
Address: No. 142, Section 2, Guohua Street, West Central District, Tainan City
Phone: 06-2226142
Hours: 8:30 AM – until sold out (closed Mondays)

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