Dongmen Ice Shop

Review

Dongmen Ice Shop is on Minzu Road in Meinong, down a small lane just past the East Gate Tower and not far from Yong'an Old Street. Founded in 1964, the founder ran it while raising children. The shop doubles as an old-style general store, and its wooden tables, glass jars and shelves of sundries feel like a step back several decades. Now in its third generation, it is a shared childhood memory for many Meinong locals.

The signature is shaved ice made in an old ice machine on site, with a light banana aroma and a fine, fluffy texture that melts on the tongue. Toppings include red beans, mung beans, shredded papaya, smoked plum, strawberry, passion fruit, chocolate and lemon. A plain bowl was reported at NT$30, with most flavors around NT$30 to NT$45. The special egg-and-milk ice tops the shaved ice with a raw egg and condensed milk; the egg half-sets on contact with the ice and does not taste eggy. Some also recommend the black tea ice. A 1 kg take-home box is NT$50.

Reviewers love the nostalgic atmosphere and low prices, noting that the ice is not too sweet and the toppings are freshly cooked; it is refreshing on a summer ride through town. Others find the banana flavor lighter than Qishan-style ice, and fruit jams such as lemon divide opinion. Some recent reviews complain about yearly price increases and less friendly service.

Sources disagree on hours: recent listings say 08:00 to 18:30, closed Tuesdays, while other reports say it stays open until 8 pm, so check before going. Weekend afternoons are busy, often with families arriving by car. Space in front is limited, so park nearby and walk. In winter, a tomato plate is also available.

It suits a rest stop while visiting the East Gate Tower and Yong'an Old Street, or a nostalgic outing with grandparents and children. First-timers can order plain ice with red beans; adventurous eaters should try the egg-and-milk ice. For a group, take a 1 kg box home to share.