Must-try in Lane 737 / Homemade steamed dumplings burst with savory broth, securing the top spot

Reported and photographed by Chen Tzu-yin / Taipei

A young woman named Meter, who grew up in Neihu, knows the area inside out. When she steps into the renowned food haven—Lane 737—it feels like walking into a “kitchen street.” Though not quite a night market, Lane 737’s street food has long been “famous far and wide.”

When it comes to must-try snacks in Lane 737, Meter didn’t forget to recommend this “custom steamed dumpling and xiaolongbao shop,” which always has a long line.It’s right across from“Happy Braised Snacks.”

Every mealtime, the queue is a given. Meter says that although the steamed dumpling and xiaolongbao shop is already well-known, it remains her top pick among must-eats in Lane 737.

▲ Long queues at the steamed dumpling stall are nothing unusual for locals in Neihu.

 
The shop looks no different from other street food joints, but the crowds signal something special. Next to it, two tall stacks of steamer baskets emit wisps of steam, while the staff serving them never stop. There are at least four part-timers just wrapping dumplings, busy stuffing pink ground pork mixed with leeks and napa cabbage into dough wrappers. At the bustling entrance, customers constantly ask, “Any seats available?” Usually, you’ll have to wait a bit before getting a chance to taste the legendary delicious dumplings.

▲ Pan-fried dumplings with glossy, thin skins and juicy fillings—70 NT per steamer.

 
Take a bite of the unseasoned, “thin-skinned and juicy” steamed dumpling, and a burst of savory broth flows out. The porky aroma spreads through your mouth along with the juice, while the pairing of napa cabbage and leeks gives the meat a smooth, non-greasy texture. That’s why there’s always a line here. Add a few slices of ginger on the side for a different flavor profile—the ginger doesn’t overpower the filling’s taste but adds a layered mouthfeel. And how can you enjoy steamed dumplings without soy sauce? Try a pan-fried dumpling, take a bite, dip it halfway into soy sauce mixed with garlic, chili, and chopped scallions, then take another bite—the flavor is bolder.

  
▲ Left: The filling mixed with napa cabbage and leeks bursts with the aroma of meat and vegetables—absolutely delicious. Right: A few slices of ginger change both the texture and taste, but don’t overshadow the filling.


▲ Left & Right: The self-serve ginger, garlic, scallions, and soy sauce are the perfect companions to steamed dumplings.


▲ The almost “paper-thin” xiaolongbao are another signature dish here—and equally tasty.
▲ In Lane 737, Neihu, just look for those two towering stacks of steamers and white vapor to find this spot.
【Custom Steamed Dumpling &
Phone: None
Business hours: 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM daily (closed on Mondays)