Let’s dig in on the cheap — after three failed tries at Dongmen Station, we finally got to eat this line-up sushi

Text & photos by Scenic Spots Home / Liao Weiren
 
The Yongkang Street area near Dongmen isn’t just a hub for food and snacks, but now also a must-visit hot spot for Japanese and Korean tourists coming to Taiwan. Hidden in the alleys near the Yongkang commercial district is a local favorite budget bite — this super popular sushi spot that has everyone lining up. Today, we’re taking you and our reporter to try it out together!

Liyuan Sushi is located in the alley just left of Exit 6 at Dongmen MRT Station. No matter when you go, you’ll always see a line of people waiting outside. Our reporter tried to go twice but came away empty-handed because the sushi sold out early. It wasn’t until the third attempt, when they arrived earlier, that they finally got to eat.

As the name suggests, Liyuan Sushi specializes in sushi, but theirs has a Taiwanese twist. There are two types: nori sushi and aburaage (fried tofu skin) sushi. The nori sushi is filled with pork floss, egg rolls, and pickled vegetables, while the aburaage sushi is simply vinegared rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Both seem to have simple ingredients, but they’re oddly addictive — one after another. Our reporter quite likes their aburaage sushi. The sweetness of the tofu skin pairs perfectly with the vinegared rice, and the aroma of the sesame unfolds in your mouth after chewing, which is really pleasant.

Sushi alone clearly isn’t enough. Our reporter also ordered tube rice cake. Their version uses flavorful fried rice paired with half a mushroom and a slice of lean meat, drizzled with the shop’s special sweet-spicy sauce. Different from the refreshing taste of sushi, it’s quite a moreish treat.