Hande Oyster Congee

Review

Hande Oyster Congee sits at No. 80 Lequn Street in West District's Fifth Market, and many locals simply call it Lequn Street oyster congee; it is a long-running breakfast and brunch spot for the neighborhood. Business Today reported that the owner moved to Taichung from the countryside so his children could attend city schools and started selling congee, prepping from 6 a.m.; oysters arrive daily from Dongshi in Chiayi, the broth is simmered from pork bones without MSG, and the meat rolls are hand-wrapped with squid paste in the filling.

The congee is southern rice-soup style: a clear, sweet broth with distinct, unmushy grains, topped with chopped celery and fried shallots, and plump oysters that are not fishy; add white pepper to taste. The real star is the braised pork, with crisp skin, an even fat-to-lean ratio and a gentle savory edge, served with sweet-sour pickles to cut the richness; one blogger called it the best in Taichung. The meat roll is cut thick with big chunks of water chestnut and pork, the fried tofu is creamy inside, and sausage and rice sausage are also on offer. A 2023 report listed oyster congee at NT$60 and a large braised pork and meat roll platter at NT$90.

Media almost unanimously recommend the braised pork and praise the big portions and low prices, ideal for two to share. Locals are divided, though: some find the congee bland and in need of pepper or dipping sauce, and at peak times it is crowded and basic, not a place for a leisurely meal.

There is a queue on weekdays and weekends; takeout lines up beside the stall and dine-in along the corridor, where you can grab a menu while waiting. Sharing tables is common at peak times, turnover is fairly quick, and avoiding noon helps a lot. Hours differ between sources: some say 9:00–20:00 closed Mondays, others 10:30–20:30, and recent data shows 9:00–19:00, closed Sundays and Mondays, so check before going.

It suits anyone exploring the Fifth Market who wants a Taiwanese brunch on the way. Two people can each get a bowl of oyster congee and share a large braised pork and meat roll platter; add extra white pepper if you like stronger flavors.