Xu Ji Huatan Pork Thick Soup

Review

Xu Ji Huatan Pork Thick Soup is on Zhongzheng Road in Huatan Township, tucked inside the township's public retail market, and is a breakfast stall many locals grew up with. Supertaste's market feature says it is now in its third generation, headlining it as a "75-year charcoal-scented pork soup"; another Huatan guide says more than 50 years. Sources differ, but all agree it is an old name in the market. The family says the elders insisted charcoal tastes better, so although gas now keeps it warm, they still aim for that charcoal character.

The signature pork thick soup costs NT$45 and holds, besides lean pork in starch batter, squid the owner selects himself, crisp and bouncy. The broth is sweet with bamboo shoots and pork, and you can add black vinegar and pepper. Braised pork rice is NT$40 and dry noodles NT$25; the menu is short but cheap. Locals usually order braised pork rice with pork soup, or a mixed soup with half squid, half pork.

Fans note that nearly everyone is a regular, praising the crunchy squid, the soft fresh-pork texture and the tangy lift from vinegar, calling it a great-value breakfast. Critics found the braised pork rice average with dry lean meat, and some even got food that was not hot enough; others complained about service and hygiene details. Opinions are split, and taste varies.

Hours are about 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; sources list no regular closing day, but holidays may change things, so check before you go. On busy days it sells out before noon. The stall is inside the market and parking nearby is hard, so use the Huatan multi-storey car park and walk. A-Lai Mutton and A-Dan oyster fritters are in the same market, perfect for a grazing tour.

It suits early risers who want to try a Changhua market breakfast, or travelers filling up before mutton in Huatan. Order a mixed pork soup and a braised pork rice, taste the soup plain, then add vinegar. Light eaters can have dry noodles with soup for around NT$70.