Japanese Oden at Qingguang Commercial District – Must-tries: King Crab Stick, Squid Tempura, and Scallop Skewer

Text & Photos /Old K

We’ve passed by this Bukit food stall next to Qingguang Market quite a few times. Recently, we came across a recommendation that made it seem pretty good, so we decided to give it a try with Meiji.

The red lantern hanging at the entrance felt especially welcoming XD. It listed ramen, oden, and skewers – all three of which Old K loves.

The interior has a really authentic Japanese vibe.

On the menu, items marked with an X are unavailable, while those with a checkmark are recommended. If you want to order oden, you’ll need to go to the entrance and place your order with the staff.

This is where you order the oden. Since no prices are listed, it’s a good idea to ask before ordering. After placing your order, you can return to your seat and they’ll bring it over.

Okinawan Cartilage Ramen (NT$230)
The main reason we ordered this ramen was because it said “Limited to 2” on the menu XD. And it was different from what Old K expected – we thought it would be small pieces of cartilage, but it turned out to be a big chunk of meat with cartilage in the middle. Still, it felt quite generous because the piece was quite large.

The broth is a pork bone-based soup, with a flavor that leans a bit Taiwanese, but it’s rich and not too salty – pretty tasty overall.

The noodles are the usual yellow wheat noodles you’d find in ramen. Old K thought they were just right, but Meiji, who prefers firmer noodles, found them a bit soft.

The big chunk of meat was well-marinated, with a rich savory flavor, and it was nice and tender. The cartilage inside had a slightly firm, chewy texture that was also quite enjoyable.

Grilled Burdock Tempura (NT$60)
This tempura was grilled to perfection – crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, yet still moist. The sauce had the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors. It was a delicious grilled burdock tempura.

Here comes the oden – this plate costs NT$240, which isn’t exactly cheap, huh?

King Crab Stick (NT$120)
The most expensive item here is this king crab stick. It’s not actually made from real king crab, but it tastes a bit like it – soft and silky in texture, very juicy, and really delicious. Their yellow mustard also packs a punch, a bit spicy but not as harsh as regular green mustard, and it actually complements the ingredients nicely. Maybe it’s because it’s summer, but they didn’t automatically bring oden broth, so remember to ask for it. The bonito-based broth, simmered with plenty of fresh ingredients, is sweet and delicious – really tasty.

Squid Tempura (NT$50)
It’s like a fish cake stuffed with squid. You can taste actual pieces of squid inside, super chewy. The elasticity of the squid pairs nicely with the Q-texture of the fish cake – the contrast in textures adds a lot to the dish. This one was also really good.

Scallop Skewer (2 pcs, NT$40)
This one has a scallop-like flavor too, though it’s more in strands and doesn’t have the same texture as real scallops. Still pretty good, though not as impressive as the first two items.

Baby Bok Choy (NT$30)
The baby bok choy soaked up the broth nicely – also pretty good. Eating healthy, XD.

Grilled Chicken Wing with Salted Cod Roe (NT$120)
We waited twenty minutes for these chicken wings with salted cod roe. And because they were blackened, we had to use our phone flashlight to take a picture XD.

The chicken wings were deboned beforehand, so they were super easy to eat. The salted cod roe, with its sweet-salty and slightly spicy flavor, paired perfectly with the tender, juicy chicken wings – really delicious. Especially when the salted cod roe bursts in your mouth – the sensation is amazing. Their grilling skills are top-notch.

K’s Little Tips: It’s been ages since I had good oden, but this place really delivers. It’s a bit pricey, but you definitely get what you pay for. The grilled items are great too. The ramen is a bit Taiwanese-style, but still good. If you’re watching your wallet, go for ramen with oden or grilled items. If you’re feeling indulgent, just order whatever you want XD. For those who enjoy drinks, there’s a decent selection of alcohol here. It’s a great spot to unwind after work.

K’s Personal Rating (out of 10, higher is better)
Taste: 8.2/10
Value for money: 6/10
Dining environment: 6.5/10
Price: 6/10

Bukit Street Food Stalls
Fan page:https://www.facebook.com/wuchiwutai
Address: No. 18-2, Nong’an Street, Zhongshan District, Taipei City (next to Qingguang Market)
Phone: 0962-008-598
Business hours: 11:30–22:00 (Closed days announced on the fan page)

Old K
Keep the relay going, Old K !

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