
▲ The chewy duck intestines are a key reason why the shop has remained popular for 30 years. (Photo / Reporter Huang Sheng-min, same below)
Reporter Huang Sheng-min / Reporting
Braised snacks are a traditional Taiwanese street food. After being simmered in a specially prepared broth and then tossed in sauce, they transform into a delicious dish. Common types of braised snacks include hot and cold versions—the difference being that cold braised snacks skip the reheating process, locking in the rich flavors during cooking. The golden moment for braised snack lovers is when you take a bite and are greeted with that intense aroma. In the highly competitive Shilin Night Market, there’s this one shop that has thrived for over 30 years thanks to its cold braised snacks and unique sauce, becoming a go-to delicacy in Shilin. Some have been eating here since their school days, through marriage and even raising kids—it’s a classic taste tied to nostalgic memories.

▲ Different ingredients require precise braising times to bring out their best flavors.
% The shredded dried tofu is a familiar item for regulars, tender yet flavorful.

“Daxi’s Famous Sand Tea Braised Snacks” was established in 1983 (the 72nd year of the Republic of China) and has now been around for 33 years. But the reason it has stood strong in Shilin Night Market is its nearly 30 varieties of fragrant braised snacks that captivate diners’ taste buds, making them addicted after just one bite. The shop uses a special recipe to create a sweet and savory braising broth, carefully controlling the braising time for each ingredient. After the broth fully infuses the food, it’s chilled and air-dried to remove excess moisture, resulting in a firm texture and rich braised flavor. Among the must-tries is the signature “duck intestines,” a dish almost everyone orders. Its springy, chewy texture releases the hidden braised flavors with every bite, filling the mouth with aroma—a delicacy no foodie would miss. Additionally, under the second-generation management, the shop has embraced a “wellness” approach by introducing a refreshing vegetable series, balancing the richness of the braised snacks with fresh greens for a healthier and more enjoyable meal.

▲ Diners can adjust the sauces to their liking, but if you’re not extremely sensitive to spice, the spicy soy paste is a must-try.
Moreover, the shop’s signature sauce is another addictive element. Made by blending different types of sauces, this soy paste is salty and savory with a hint of sweetness. Paired with freshly chopped chili peppers daily, spice lovers can’t resist adding extra scoops to enjoy the thrilling heat. Some customers even come specifically for this spicy soy paste, making it the perfect sidekick to the braised snacks.

▲ Daxi black dried tofu is one of the shop’s longest-running staples.
% The selection is thoughtfully curated, allowing diners to freely choose their favorite ingredients.

As for why a shop located in “Shilin” is named “Daxi”? Second-generation owner Mr. Huang explained that the name “Daxi’s Famous Sand Tea Braised Snacks” comes from his hometown, Daxi, and his family’s connection to the legendary dried tofu brand “Huang Ri Xiang.” The first-generation owner started the business with braised tofu, using the braising technique to share the flavors of his hometown. The shop also adopted the name Daxi to honor its roots. Despite challenges from the fluctuating popularity of the night market, the owner remains committed to preserving this taste as it’s more than just a stall for sharing delicious food—it’s a place filled with memories of his father, and he wants to pass on the joy of handmade cuisine.

▲ Daxi’s Famous Sand Tea Braised Snacks hopes to keep passing down its delicious legacy with passion, so more people can enjoy this timeless taste.
Running a stall for over 30 years comes with undeniable challenges—how to innovate to attract customers, how to maintain quality—all are constant concerns for an old shop. But Owner Huang and his wife always face everything with a smile because they know challenges are inevitable. Rather than stress, they embrace each obstacle, try new things, and make changes. But seeing the joy on customers’ faces as they enjoy the braised snacks makes every hardship worthwhile. They hope visitors leave with a true sense of happiness, savoring the rich flavors that have been cherished for 30 years.
Daxi’s Famous Sand Tea Braised Snacks
Address: No. 11-3, Dadong Rd., Shilin District, Taipei City
Phone: 02-2883-1319
Business Hours: Monday to Sunday, 17:00–24:00 (Closed every other Tuesday)
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