Guo Family Aiyu Jelly Ice

Review

Guo Family Aiyu Jelly Ice sits on Minzu Road in Pingtung Night Market and is one of its oldest stalls. Supertaste says it was founded in 1923 and is now run by the third generation, while another report describes it as at least 99 years old. For locals, a cup of aiyu after a night-market stroll is a ritual from childhood.

The signature aiyu ice is made with wild seeds from Alishan, kneaded by hand every day to set the jelly. Because hand-washed aiyu weeps water if kept overnight, it is made and sold out the same day. The jelly is smooth and slightly bouncy, served with sweet-tart lemon syrup and crushed ice, wonderfully thirst-quenching in summer. Some diners also recommend the almond version, saying it tastes clean without any harsh artificial flavour. According to Supertaste, a small aiyu ice costs NT$25 and a large NT$35.

Fans praise the natural, silky aiyu, refreshing lemon and honey flavour and low prices, and many drink a cup every time they return to Pingtung. Critics find it too sweet or just ordinary, and some are unhappy with the stall's surroundings or service, so opinions are split.

Reports differ slightly on hours, with one saying 10:00 to midnight and another an opening time of 09:00, so check before going. The stall is mid-market and parking nearby is hard, so park farther out and walk in. When the market is busy most people take it to go and sip while walking; getting a seat is down to luck.

It suits anyone finishing a night-market meal who wants a light sweet ending, or visitors curious to taste hand-washed aiyu from a century-old stall. First-timers should try a large lemon aiyu, ask for less sugar if you prefer, and two cups come to under NT$100.