Qiaotou Old Noodle Shop

Review

Qiaotou Old Noodle Shop is at No. 43 Xilong Road in Longtan, tucked into an alley that first-timers can struggle to find. Both Supertaste and TVBS report that it was founded in 1959 and has passed the sixty-year mark. Locals have eaten here since childhood, it is often first on Longtan must-eat lists, and the doorway is always crowded with people waiting for their number.

The signature is pickled mustard and shredded pork noodles: crunchy, salty mustard greens, plenty of pork and a clean, savoury broth. The large bowl is described as almost absurdly big, so average eaters will be happy with a small. What sets it apart is the choice of seven noodles: yellow, chewy, yi mein, thin, white, rice vermicelli or flat rice noodles, so you can change the texture to suit. Braised and sliced sides are also available, and dried tofu or kelp go well alongside.

Fans praise the big portions, fair prices, the savoury pickled mustard that pairs so well with noodles, and the old-time flavour. Most complaints are about the wait: queues are still long at 1 p.m., and both dine-in and takeaway customers must take a number. Some find the taste homely rather than remarkable, and others mention difficult parking in the alley and a cramped dining room.

Online listings show hours of roughly 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Mondays and Tuesdays; confirm before you go. Supertaste records the large pickled mustard pork noodles at NT$80, so with a side or two expect a little over NT$100 per person. Everyone takes a number first; avoid the noon peak to wait less. The lanes are narrow, so park on a nearby main road and walk. Payment is mainly cash.

Good for anyone wanting a true local taste of Longtan, and for big eaters. First-timers should try the pickled mustard pork noodles with chewy noodles or yi mein, a small bowl for average appetites, plus a braised side or two. Groups can each order a different noodle and compare the seven textures.