阿柑姨芋圓
Jiufen is famous for its food, and almost no one misses it when they visit, unless they are extremely tired, as it is located very high up the stairs with many steps to climb.
The choice of toppings is a bit monotonous, just green beans/red beans and large red beans. You can add condensed milk for an extra $10. However, the price is still very affordable even now, with a bowl costing only $55.
The biggest feature of this shop is probably its excellent view, attracting many tourists who come specifically for it.
As for the food, I found the taro balls a bit too soft and lacking in chewy texture, but the green beans and red beans had some crispness to them, which combined with the condensed milk was a nice touch. Unfortunately, the ice was in large chunks, while I prefer mine a bit more finely crushed. Overall, it was still quite good.
To be honest, a bowl for $65 with such a beautiful view is definitely worth it, aside from having to climb quite a few steps.
Walking from the pick-up area to the viewing area, you can see the shopkeepers hand-kneading those taro balls; they are handmade, not machine-made. Such shops are rare nowadays.