The golden combo of egg yolk and pork bun—The classic assault of "Qiaotou Pork Buns"

Text & Photos /Shadow

Besides the famous pork rice and curry tuna soup in Qiaotou Old Street, Qiaotou Pork Buns are also a must-buy souvenir or snack when visiting Qiaotou. Established in the 25th year of the Republic of China (1936), Qiaotou Taicheng Pork Buns have been around for nearly eighty years. The founder, Mr. Chen, originally came to Taiwan from Fuzhou. He first landed in Keelung before choosing to settle in southern Qiaotou to make a living. By chance, he started selling buns part-time along the provincial highway while working. Thanks to word of mouth, the business gained fame, eventually leading to the name Taicheng Pork Buns. Over time, people began referring to them as Qiaotou Pork Buns.

Qiaotou Pork Buns now has two locations—the main store is situated on the provincial highway next to the police station, and the other branch is inside Qiaotou Sugar Refinery. We strolled slowly from Qiaotou Old Street, first picking up some Zhangji Spring Rolls, then walked toward the direction of the police station. After circling around the police station and reaching the provincial highway, we found the main store of Qiaotou Pork Buns.

When we arrived, it was high noon, and plenty of freshly baked buns were available, offering more choices. In addition to buying on-site, the shop also offers online delivery services or phone reservations for pickup.

Mr. Chen is from Fuzhou, so the flavor of the pork buns is inherited from Fuzhou-style cuisine. Made by hand following traditional methods, the buns have been passed down through three generations. Now managed by the third generation, the younger members have developed more innovative flavors to keep up with the ever-changing society and appeal to the younger demographic.

Signature Pork Bun – NT$25
In the early days, the first-generation pork buns had a simple flavor. The dough was slightly thicker, kneaded to develop gluten, resulting in a chewy and firm texture. Locally sourced, qualified fresh pork was used for the filling. The large chunks of pork were firm, occasionally oozing juices—a truly old-school taste.

Egg Yolk & Mushroom Pork Bun – NT$35
By the second generation, the pork buns began to evolve, with ingredients like egg yolk and mushrooms added. This not only added variety to the aroma and flavor layers but also created a very different texture compared to the first-generation pork buns when the egg yolk was mixed into the meat filling. Among the three generations of buns, this one is our favorite.

Brown Sugar Scallion Pork Bun – NT$25
By the third generation, the flavors became even more diverse. The once snow-white, plump pork buns transformed into a brown sugar flavor, filled with savory scallion pork. The meat filling somehow tasted like sausage—quite a departure from traditional pork bun flavors. With a sweet outer layer and salty filling, the contrasting sweet-and-salty taste is truly a new-generation style pork bun.

Handmade Scallion Rolls – NT$20
This might be the most beautiful handmade scallion roll Shadow has ever seen. The scallions are evenly distributed, the steamed bun is soft and elastic, with a faint hint of scallion fragrance—it’s truly a classic, timeless flavor.

Longan & Nut Steamed Buns – NT$35
When it comes to health-conscious steamed buns, none beat the Longan & Nut Steamed Buns. Made with whole wheat dough, these buns are quite hearty. They’re sprinkled with nuts and raisins, offering a healthy, satisfying, and fulfilling treat.

Whether it’s the first or third generation of pork buns, each generation tells the story and spirit of Qiaotou Pork Buns. Different generations of owners have adapted to societal changes, innovating flavors to appeal to younger crowds. Qiaotou Pork Buns have become one of the most representative local snacks and a must-try delicacy for visitors. Their humble yet delicious taste is worth adding to your must-eat list—we highly recommend them.

Address: No. 164, Chenggong Rd., Qiaotou District, Kaohsiung City
Phone: 07-6110153
Business Hours: 07:00–19:00
Closed on Mondays
 

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