Der-Li Dried Tofu

Review

Der-Li Dried Tofu on Dayu Street in Hualien City is a braised dried tofu shop of nearly a century, now run by the fourth generation, with its main store at No. 6. Supertaste's 2026 Hualien souvenir round-up lists it as a hidden must-buy, and FUNIT's local specialties guide calls it one of the items many visitors make sure to buy in Hualien. The shop is in the old downtown area, not far from the Zhonghua Road souvenir strip or Dongdamen Night Market.

The signature is freshly braised dried tofu, cooked for hours in an aged secret broth made with Chinese herbs until soft and deeply flavoured. Flavours include original and spicy, plus garlic satay and plum-and-winter-melon versions, with vegetarian options too. Another favourite is the Der-Li white plum, coated in sugar for a sweet-sour balance. According to Supertaste, a flat bag of white plums costs NT$135, while Tripool lists dried tofu at roughly NT$80 to NT$150 a pack, vacuum-sealed for travel; check prices on site.

Fans say the tofu is braised through, fragrant and grows more flavourful as you chew, making it a staple Hualien gift; one overseas visitor called it the best dried tofu they had in Taiwan. Complaints are few, mainly that it costs more than ordinary dried tofu and leans salty. Online reviews are limited in number, so detailed feedback is scarce.

Online listings give hours of about 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; confirm before you go. The main store is on Dayu Street where parking is tight, so walk or ride. Vacuum-packed tofu travels well on the train home, but eat it soon once opened, and ask about storage and shelf life when buying.

Good for anyone wanting a savoury Hualien souvenir, or travellers who enjoy braised snacks with tea. First-timers can buy one pack each of original and spicy to compare, try garlic satay if you like bold flavours, and add a bag of white plums for something sweet, whether for gifts or yourself.