Xinming Original Beef Noodles

Review

Xinming Original Beef Noodles stands at No. 65 Minquan Road in Zhongli, right next to Yongchuan; both grew out of the military-village beef noodle tradition around Xinming Market, and locals love comparing them. Sources differ on when it began, some saying sixty years and others more than seventy. The shop stresses that its authentic taste is one of a kind, and entertainer Xiao Zhong calls it a favourite he has eaten since childhood.

The signature beef noodle soup has a rich broth with a gentle peppery heat, a generous scattering of scallion and big chunks of beef. The noodles are semi-handmade and springy, and you can swap in glass noodles. Supertaste notes the broth is cooked one day and served the next for a deeper flavour; a little house chilli oil from the table adds a lift, and regulars often add the signature dumplings.

Fans praise the tender, generously portioned beef, the old-school aroma of the broth and the free noodle refill. Critics call the broth and noodles merely competent, some say it leaves them thirsty and is on the heavy side, and others find the pickled greens too salty. At peak times, or when the shop next door is closed, crowds pour in and waits are common.

Online listings show hours of about 8:40 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, while an older report says it opened at 7 a.m., so check before going. A bowl of beef noodles costs NT$160; an older report quoted NT$120, so go by the menu on the wall. The free refill applies to noodle dishes only, once per order. It is an old-style eatery with small tables, so expect to share when busy, and street parking nearby is hard.

It suits anyone wanting to try both halves of Zhongli's beef noodle rivalry, or who likes peppery broth and big pieces of beef. First-timers should order the signature bowl and claim the free noodle refill halfway; switch to glass noodles for a change of texture, and grab a side or two from the fridge. With time to spare, order a bowl here and one at Yongchuan to share and compare the two broths.