Mi Cang Honey Sweet Potato

Review

Mi Cang sits inside Taichung's Second Market on the Taiwan Boulevard Section 1 side and has become one of the market's most talked-about dessert stalls in recent years. It lacks the long history of the old stalls, but it made its name with simple honey sweet potatoes; media have repeatedly said they sell out the moment they come out, and many people grab a box while exploring the market.

The signature honey sweet potatoes are hand-cut and slowly cooked in malt syrup until glossy and caramel-colored. They are soft and fluffy with sweet potato aroma and malty sweetness, and each box comes with a packet of peanut powder that adds a nutty note, so the overall taste is not cloying. Besides honey sweet potatoes, the stall sells charcoal-roasted sweet potatoes and drinks such as sweet potato milk, pineapple milk, starfruit ice, pineapple ice and roselle plum tea to pair with them.

Diners praise the glossy sweet potatoes and strong aroma, a small box that already feels generous, and prices far friendlier than similar products in tourist areas; the owner's warm, patient manner is often mentioned. Criticism includes sweetness some find too high, missing out between batches, and prices that have risen compared with earlier reports.

Media report three fixed batches a day, at around 9:30 am, 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. Online listings show it open until about 2 pm and closed Mondays and Tuesdays; check before going. Pre-ordering is recommended; boxes are sold by weight in small and large sizes, mainly to take away. Paid parking is near the Second Market, or walk from Taichung Station.

It suits dessert lovers and anyone looking for a market snack or small gift. On a first visit, try a small box, sprinkle on the peanut powder and eat it warm; if you like it, add a large box to share at home, and pair it with sweet potato milk or starfruit ice to cut the sweetness. It is the perfect finish after the market's savory dishes.