Simple little eateries in Yilan: The Q-textured zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste) have just the right savory kick

Text & photos byPurple Smile

Ever since the Hsuehshan Tunnel opened, property and everyday prices in Yilan have never gone back down. Many budget eats, though still affordable, now require an extra coin or two. It’s getting harder to find tasty street food that won’t break the bank. A friend recently recommended a highly praised zhajiangmian spot near Yilan’s Lanyang Night Market—right across from Liming Elementary School. It’s simple but delicious, a perfect place for a satisfying bite.

To be honest, this place feels very homey. If no one had told us about it, we’d have walked right past without noticing.

The decor is pretty standard, just like any small eatery, but at least it has air conditioning. In the sweltering summer heat, AC is a huge blessing for customers. Without it, eating hot food would be unbearable.

The menu. Nothing too special—pretty similar to what you’d find at any regular shop. Since their specialty is zhajiangmian, we started with a bowl of noodles and some side dishes. The noodles come in thick or thin versions.

Sweet potato leaves~~ This generous portion is only NT$30. The owner really goes all out. Simple seasoning with garlic and soy sauce makes it super tasty.

Golden egg~~ Soft, Q-textured, and silky golden eggs—apparently one of their best-selling sides.

Our friend who recommended this place lives nearby and often buys these as dinner sides.

Pig’s ear~~ The chewy pig’s ear is one of our favorite snacks. We always order it when we hit a small noodle shop like this.

Tofu cubes drizzled with sauce are another example of humble yet delicious fare.

Here comes the zhajiangmian—topped with scallions, bean sprouts, a generous layer of sauce, and what looks like bits and pieces. Hmm, can’t quite tell what they are until you take a bite. Turns out they’re tofu cubes. The well-mixed sauce isn’t overly salty, and the Q-textured noodles soak up the aroma of the sauce, making them even more delicious.

We added some dumplings too—the filling is hearty, and the dumplings are decently sized, very satisfying.

This bowl of wonton soup is also packed with goodies!!! The wontons are pretty big, and the broth is especially delicious. The owner said they simmer it with real pork bones for a naturally sweet and rich flavor.

Seaweed~~ The seaweed here is thicker than usual, with a better texture.

Ha, simple little snacks, but such a satisfying meal. Our friend’s recommendation was spot on. Just as they said—it’s simple but genuine, nothing’s skimped on, and it has that down-to-earth charm Yilan street food had before the tunnel opened. No wonder business has been steady since we sat down. It’s clearly a local favorite. Plus, this area is part of the Yilan Senior High, Zhonghua Junior High, and Liming Elementary school district—definitely a treat students can afford. We’ll definitely be back next time we’re in the area!!!


Highly praised zhajiangmian
Address: No. 6, Xiaoshe Rd., Yilan City, Yilan County (across from Liming Elementary School)
Phone: 03-9371552

We’re Ben & Jean—we love food, travel, photography, and tech.
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