A Nostalgic Taste of Grandma’s Home Cooking: Tainan’s Xiaoman Restaurant Is Worth a Second Visit

Text & Photos /Rule Little Sun

This time around, even though the two set meals were identical to what I’d had before, they still filled me with anticipation—the kind where you can’t wait to see what surprises each plate holds.

This Mid-Autumn Festival, instead of barbecuing, I opted for my favorite “Xiaoman” as a cozy family gathering spot. We booked a 7:30 PM slot. The rice ball set from last time was sold out, so both of us went for the NT$280 set meal (no service charge).

Though the two set meals were exactly the same, the excitement was still real—waiting to see what delightful surprises lay in those neat little piles of food.

The two main dishes this time were different from last visit: Sichuan peppercorn fish slices and dried cabbage with pork. The fish slices were super fresh, though I didn’t really get the numbing-spicy kick (maybe I’m just used to spicier versions). But the tender fish paired with a hint of spice and some festive pomelo cubes made for a light, sweet, and refreshing bite.

The dried cabbage with pork? Totally unique. Made with (now rare) dried cabbage and pork, it was incredibly savory yet not overly salty—and it paired perfectly with rice. That sweet, comforting “mom’s cooking” taste lingered with me long after the meal. The soup that day, a seafood and seaweed egg drop soup, also had crab leg meat in it. It was fresh, subtly sweet, and carried a delicate ocean flavor.

Same as before: cold green beans, mashed potatoes, and a new dish—sliced mushrooms in a cold salad—all served as appetizers. The steamed white rice was just as delicious as ever. This being my second visit, I couldn’t help but steal a few more glances around Xiaoman’s cozy interior. The staff behind the counter were focused and dedicated, and honestly, so were the customers.



As guests left, they’d leave behind colorful bowls and plates—not a mess, but a satisfying sight. If you cook yourself, you’ll know how joyful it is to see people love your food and finish it quickly. (I totally related to that feeling :))


Cute Ulu (the owl decor)—whether it was seeing it last time or this time, it felt like no time had passed. It was still there, quietly napping, keeping watch, or maybe welcoming guests?

Either way, it definitely drew me in. And I always sneak in a quick photo when no one’s looking.







Xiaoman is tucked away in an alley just beside Juanwei (a nearby popular spot). It’s an alley about the width of two people. If you’re facing the direction of this photo, it’s basically right behind you. I follow “[Rainbow Has Arrived]” on Facebook and through their posts, I’ve come to know lots of stuff about Nan Zhengxing Street.

Reading about their outings together, shared meals, and stories about Zhengxing Street makes me happy. It always feels like unity and sharing bring more joy to life than arguing and competing.

Author:[Enjoy Life Without Boredom. Rule Little Sun]

[Xiaoman Restaurant]

Address: No. 47, Section 3, Guohua Street, West Central District, Tainan City
Contact Number:06-220-1088