Zhou Family Steamed Dumplings

Review

Zhou Family Steamed Dumplings sits on Gongzheng Street in Hualien City and, together with a nearby bun shop, represents the famous Gongzheng Street buns. Supertaste's 2026 Hualien round-up calls it a local institution of around fifty years. Although the sign says xiaolongbao, what arrives are bite-sized yeast buns rather than the thin, soupy Shanghai-style dumplings, so first-timers should adjust their expectations.

According to Supertaste, ten buns cost NT$70 or NT$7 each, and the menu also has steamed dumplings, sticky rice, braised pork rice, pork thick soup and other soups, mostly under NT$90. The dough is slightly sweet, fluffy and springy, and the pork filling releases some juice. The steamed dumplings have chewy skins and a cabbage and pork filling, and taste best with the house sauce and chilli.

Fans praise the low prices and the aroma of buns straight from the steamer, and many take away several baskets for a late snack or the trip home. Critics say the dough is thick and the filling small; a 2020 review on Travel Yam also found the buns light on filling and the hot and sour soup ordinary. Expect a queue for seats at peak times, and some reviewers note it is cash only.

Opening hours differ between sources. It was once known for being open 24 hours, while recent listings mostly say 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., closed Wednesdays, so check before you go. Seating is limited and takeaway is easier when it is busy; orders come out quickly. Parking nearby is tight, so walking from the city centre is easiest.

Good for anyone on a budget who wants an old-school Hualien taste, or as a takeaway stop after Dongdamen Night Market. One person can manage ten buns and a soup; two or three can add dumplings or sticky rice. If you want to compare, buy from Gongzheng Bun Store as well and taste them side by side.