Mian Xian Chen Vermicelli (Neihu Original)

Review

The original Neihu shop of Mian Xian Chen Vermicelli is at No. 1, Alley 67, Lane 285, Section 1, Neihu Road, beside Xihu Junior High and not far from Neihu Technology Park. Supertaste reports that the recipe has been handed down for three generations and that owner Chen has kept to the most traditional methods since founding it; branches followed later, but this is the first shop and a regular brunch spot for tech-park workers.

The star is handmade red vermicelli simmered in a pure bonito broth that tastes fragrant without being overly salty. The braised intestines are fresh pork intestine heads sent up from Yunlin, while the oysters and white shrimp come from Dongshi fishing port in Chiayi. There is also a Taiwanese vermicelli ramen bowl, topped with intestines brushed with a secret barbecue sauce, torched, then finished with garlic and coriander. On the table sits the owner's handmade garlic-shrimp Sichuan peppercorn chili sauce for anyone who likes heat.

Fans praise the fresh ingredients, plump oysters and generous portions, and many call it the best vermicelli in Neihu, often ordering it for delivery. Critics find it pricier than an ordinary vermicelli stall, especially with delivery mark-ups, and some think the barbecue sauce is too sweet, with traditionalists preferring the simple intestine and oyster version.

Hours differ by source, so check before you go: Supertaste lists Tuesday to Sunday 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., closed Mondays, while Google currently shows Wednesday to Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Mondays and Tuesdays. The shop is small and the tech-park lunch break is busy, so come before 11 a.m. or after 2 p.m. Parking in the lanes is hard; it is about a ten-minute walk from MRT Xihu Station.

Good for anyone working in Neihu Science Park who wants a hot bowl for brunch, or food lovers curious about creative Taiwanese vermicelli. First-timers can order the mixed intestine and oyster vermicelli, try the vermicelli ramen if adventurous, and add a little peppercorn chili sauce. Expect about NT$60 to NT$200 per person.