The timeless taste of Suzhou-Hangzhou dim sum from 50 years ago — Q-textured soup dumplings and savory crab shell pastries

Text and photos bySan Gao Eats Han

The Suzhou-Hangzhou Dim Sum on Roosevelt Road near Guting Station is an old shop. I ate there once quite a while ago and was left with a good impression. This time when I passed by, I noticed the storefront had been renovated, yet the business remained bustling. Glancing at the pastries in the warming display case by the door, there were only a few crab shell pastries left. On a whim, I went in to take away some soup dumplings and crab shell pastries.

By dinner time, there were only a few crab shell pastries and lean pork patties left, which were quickly snapped up just as I was placing my order and waiting.

You can’t let your guard down with takeout soup dumplings. About 10 minutes later, the box was opened — the shape was mostly well-preserved, though one edge had a tiny tear that let out some broth...

Soup Dumplings (8 pcs for NT$120)

Plump with clear pleats, the wrappers had a nice Q texture. The broth seasoning was just right — a few slivers of ginger were all that was needed. One could easily pop one in their mouth in one go — smooth and refreshing, with a light and oil-free taste. Compared to more finely minced meat fillings, this one felt more substantial.

Flaky Crab Shell Pastry (NT$20)

Inside was scallion filling, slightly moist so it didn’t feel dry. It had a simple, comforting savory flavor. But having possibly sat in the warming case for a while, the exterior texture was somewhat affected and not in peak condition. For the best experience, it’s probably better to go earlier.

Suzhou-Hangzhou Dim Sum Shop
Address: No. 14, Section 2, Roosevelt Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
Business hours: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM

Savor Taiwan with heart, and record delicious footsteps with care
San Gao Han Gao’s Food Journey　San Gao’s Fan Page