Yinfeng Ice Parlor

Review

Yinfeng Ice Parlor sits at the corner of Zhongshan Road in Yanshui, right next to the historic Ye family Octagonal Tower. It has been open for more than 60 years and is now run by the third generation. Older locals often met prospective partners and went on dates here, so the media nicknamed it the matchmaker of the food world. The storefront is small, but the interior is roomy and keeps a strong retro feel.

The signature is the red bean milk ice with egg yolk at NT$50 a bowl. The milk ice is close to a fluffy snow ice, an egg yolk hides in the middle, and the plump red beans are rich in flavor. The pudding red bean milk ice is also NT$50 but noticeably sweeter. The shop still uses a traditional ice machine and the old stir-fried ice technique, fruit is cut to order, and the mixed juice is described as very thick.

Reviewers most often praise the large red beans, the light, smooth milk ice and the honest prices, and they like fresh drinks such as watermelon lemon juice and papaya milk. Complaints focus on the raw egg yolk, which not everyone will eat, the very sweet pudding version, styrofoam takeaway cups and a storefront that is easy to miss.

Sources disagree on hours, with some listing 8 or 9 am to 11 pm. Recent information mostly says 10:30 am to 10 pm, with Wednesdays possibly closed, so check before going. Crowds arrive soon after opening. You order and pay first, collect your order, then find a seat. Scooters can park outside.

It suits anyone cooling off after visiting the Octagonal Tower or bringing older relatives for a taste of the past. First-timers should order the red bean milk ice with egg yolk. If raw egg is not for you, choose the pudding version or a fresh juice. It is a one-minute walk from A-Miao Yi Noodles.