St. Xingang Breakfast

Breakfast places are literally on every corner in Taiwan, but the traditional ones are such a rarity these days. This breakfast spot on Xingang Street in Hualien have neither an obvious signboard nor a name, but the nostalgic taste makes it a favorite of locals and only known to the locals.

Located on No. 68, Xingang Street, Hualien City, this conspicuous eatery has been pleasing local palates for more than three decades. The original signboard was taken down after being blocked by the one next door, which is why it is nowhere to be seen now. Its address becomes the only way how loyal patrons locates this hole in the wall. The owner prides herself on offering a great variety of homemade dishes except for milk and the deep-fried breadsticks (youtiao). As the staple breakfast of many Taiwanese, egg pancakes (danbing) happen to be the signature dish here. Thick and chewy, these egg pancakes go perfectly well with the special sweet and sour condiment available, which adds to the complexity of the dish.

The extensive menu also includes puffs, turnip cakes topped with eggs, peanut soups and miso soups, while most patrons still go for the egg pancakes as they are cheap, hearty and filling.