A-Zao Bo Angelica Mutton Soup

Review

A-Zao Bo Angelica Mutton Soup stands on the Minquan Road side of Luodong Night Market, and it is the long-running stall that Supertaste, Yam and Hong Kong media almost always name when covering the market. Reports describe queues that seem to have no end, and even rain does not slow business, making it one of the market's most representative queue stalls.

The signature mutton soup is simmered with angelica root and shredded ginger, giving a clear, gently sweet broth that is not greasy and has very little gaminess. Mutton slices are generous and tender, and you can dip them in the house mild chilli bean paste for a saltier kick. The other favourite is fried stinky tofu, crisp outside and soft inside, served with sweet chilli sauce. The stall says prices depend on what is on offer, and none of the sources list a full menu with prices.

Fans praise the generous meat and soothing broth, perfect in autumn and winter, and some rank the stinky tofu among the best they have had in Taiwan; staff are also called friendly and fast. Complaints include waits of fifteen to thirty minutes, a broth some find too light on angelica, and the flies that come with a night-market setting.

Reports put hours at about 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., closed Wednesdays; check before you go. Diners note that the queue starts behind the stall, so walk in beside it to find the line; staff hand out a menu while you wait so you can decide in advance. To shorten the wait, arrive before opening or skip the dinner rush and come late at night.

It suits anyone visiting Luodong Night Market in autumn or winter who wants a warming bowl, and night owls looking for a late snack. Two people can share two bowls of mutton soup or mutton with thin noodles, plus fried stinky tofu and blanched greens; those who do not eat mutton can simply order the stinky tofu.