Let’s dig in at this hidden gem of a snack shop behind the train station!

Photos & Text by Travel Writer Liao Weiren
 
Hua Yin Street, situated behind Taipei Main Station, exudes a strong historical vibe. During the early period of Japanese colonial rule, it served as a major wholesale center for all kinds of goods. The beautiful buildings still reflect the traces of time, and the air here has a special ambiance that sets it apart from the rest of metropolitan Taipei. Moreover, the area is home to many fantastic eateries. This quaint, hipster-style snack shop stands out a bit among them. Today, we’re taking you and our readers on a food adventure!

Chu Fan Shi Jian, a playful name blending Taiwanese Mandarin and a hipster flair, is sure to bring a smile. This snack shop, unlike traditional ones, is located on Hua Yin Street and is the new brand of the nearby famous snack spot Fu Zhen Pork Ribs. It aims to offer a fresh take on classic dishes through retro-inspired packaging.

Their signature chicken rice features finely chopped chicken meat, different from the usual shredded chicken seen in Taipei. It’s topped with chicken oil sauce and served with two slices of pickled cucumber. When eaten together with steamed white rice, the savory flavors are perfectly balanced.

The twisted noodle dish is, hands down, the reviewer’s favorite main here. It combines sesame sauce with a hint of Sichuan peppery spice, mixed with shredded cucumber and topped with half a poached egg. The sesame sauce is incredibly flavorful and addictive, while the lingering Sichuan peppery aftertaste extends the deliciousness in your mouth. It’s truly impressive—once you start, you just can’t stop eating.

Their spicy duck blood comes with about six or seven generous pieces. The portion is quite hearty. In terms of taste, the reviewer found it not overly spicy but full of aroma, with a tender texture. It pairs very well with the twisted noodles.