Xuantengzhuang

Review

Xuantengzhuang sits on Kaiyuan Road in Qidu District near Qingji Temple, directly across from Qidu's long-running Lai Lai Dumpling House, and Keelung Hi names it as another long-established shop when introducing Qidu's old eateries. The menu centers on northern-style noodles and hot pots, it has over a thousand online reviews, and it is a common choice for Qidu families wanting mainland-style food.

The dish most often mentioned is the pickled cabbage and pork hot pot, which Bunny Ann describes as a very large pot with ample portions: the sour cabbage gives the broth a tangy aroma, with plenty of sliced pork and other ingredients, ideal for several people sharing. Moo shu fried noodles are another regular, and diners recommend the knife-cut noodles, saying this is one of the few places in Keelung serving them, along with beef pies, millet porridge and sesame-paste noodles. No source lists prices, so check the menu on site.

Diners praise the big, well-stocked hot pots, good-value beef pies and comfortable dining room, and many have eaten here with their elders since childhood. Complaints include sesame noodles that taste bland, millet porridge that is too thick, and prices higher than a snack shop, with the hot pot better suited to groups.

Online listings show hours of 11 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. and 5 to 8:30 p.m., closed Mondays and shut between sessions, so confirm before going. It is about a five-minute walk from Qidu Station with little parking nearby, so the train is easiest, and afterward you can stroll Qingji Temple and the station-front shopping area.

It suits groups of friends or families wanting a steaming hot pot in Qidu, and noodle lovers seeking knife-cut noodles. With a group, order the pickled cabbage hot pot plus moo shu noodles or beef pies to share; one or two diners can go for knife-cut noodles with side dishes instead.