🚩 Hong Kong-style barbecue in Taipei’s East District - Authentic deliciousness 😋
📍 Location and Transportation: Xin De Shi is located in a well-known alleyway at No. 216, Section 4, Zhongxiao East Road in Taipei's East District. The nearest MRT station is Zhongxiao Dunhua Station, Exit 3, which is about a 4-minute walk. There are a few motorcycle parking spots across from 7-Eleven.
🏠 Space: Xin De Shi originally operated in the shopping district in Xinyi but had to suspend operations due to the pandemic. It reopened in 2023 in the East District. There is a recessed garden at the entrance. On the left side is the takeout ordering and waiting area, while there are outdoor seats on the right. The indoor dining area is spacious and comfortable with about 50 seats, and the decor is clean and new.
💰 Ordering and Payment: Orders are placed at the counter and payment is made in cash. Customers will pick up their food themselves by calling the number on the machine and return utensils in a self-service manner.
🍽️ Dishes:
Rose Oil Chicken Leg Rice: The chicken skin looks beautifully glossy and tastes fragrant. The meat is tender, with seasoning on the heavier side, which pairs well with rice. The sides are only cabbage and vermicelli (quite salty), with toppings of scallions and spicy radish. Previously, I thought the rice portion was a bit small, but today they served a generous amount.
Red Dates and Goji Berry Chicken Soup: It contains two pieces of not very large meat (drumsticks?). The flavor is mild, so considering the price, it’s not particularly recommended.
💬 Summary:
Hong Kong-style barbecue bento prices are generally high. Xin De Shi provides a good amount of meat, and the thickness of the slices is just right—not so thin that it’s translucent 😂. Although the side dishes are somewhat lacking, the deliciousness makes up for minor shortcomings, and I will definitely visit again (the meat is really good 😍). Today I tried the soup, which was okay, but next time I’d like to try the cold brew tea.