Zhushan Oyster Fritters

Review

Zhushan Oyster Fritters is beside the City God Temple of Lingde in Zhushan, near the old street area, and opens only in the afternoon. Both Yam News and Travel Yam's Zhushan food lists include it, describing fair prices and a wide range of fritters that locals reach for as an afternoon snack, and diners call it an old stall in front of the temple.

The star is the oyster fritter: batter fried golden around a filling of cabbage, chives and oysters, its sweetness coming from the vegetables and fresh shellfish. Other fried items include spring onion fritters, glutinous rice, rice sausage, chive rolls, radish cake, sweet potato and taro slices, plus the less common fried coriander, so you can mix a plate to share. Diners also mention a pork intestine and blood soup that cuts through the richness.

Fans praise shells that are thin, crisp and not too greasy, fresh oysters, fragrant chives and honest prices, with everything crispest right after opening. Opinions split, though: some found the fritters oily and lacking aroma on the day, the sweet potato bland or the oysters small; at peak times there is a wait for frying, and seats are few.

Sources disagree on hours: one lists 1:30 to 6:15 p.m. with Mondays off, while map listings show 1:30 to 6 p.m. daily, so check before you go. Arrive at opening or before 3 or 4 p.m.; everything is fried to order. Street parking beside the temple is limited, so use a paid lot around the old street and walk over, and bring cash.

Good for visitors strolling Zhushan Old Street or wanting a snack after the temple, and for small families who love Taiwanese fritters. First-timers can order an oyster fritter, a spring onion fritter and rice sausage, then try the coriander or taro slices for something new. Eat them hot; if taking away, don't seal the bag too long or the shells will soften.