The Nantou County Government recently unveiled the "Nantou 100 Bowls" food evaluation list, featuring 78 local snack shops. These selections span a diverse range of cuisines, including Indigenous dishes, international delicacies, and desserts, showcasing the richness of Nantou's culinary culture. Cai Mingzhi, Director of the News and Administration Office, personally awarded certification plaques to the selected vendors. He emphasized that this evaluation invited ten interdisciplinary celebrities, including food critics and content creators, as judges to ensure both fairness and professionalism. All selected vendors also passed hygiene inspections conducted by the Health Bureau, ensuring food safety and quality. The initiative aims to attract more visitors to savor the flavors of Nantou.
Cai Mingzhi noted that in addition to renowned attractions like Sun Moon Lake and Xitou, Nantou's local cuisine is not to be overlooked. Through this event, the county government hopes to promote local snacks while offering visitors a taste of Nantou's cultural charm.
Qingbao Savory Fried Dough from Puli Tops the List
Among the 78 selected vendors, Puli's "Qingbao Savory Fried Dough" claimed the top spot with its signature savory fried dough, earning the highest rating of five bowls from the judges. Owner Liu Qingbao, who has operated the shop for over 30 years, insists on maintaining handcrafted quality. Recently, his daughter took over the business and introduced new flavors, incorporating local ingredients like scallion eggs, pork patties, and water bamboo, which have been well-received by customers.
Nantou City's 「Bridge Side Meatball」 Earned a 3-Bowl Rating (Image/Source: Nantou County Government Website)
Tradition and Community Culture Create Culinary Gems
Other notable entries include Nantou City's "Qiaotoubian Meatballs" "Banana Leaf Kuih" and Puli's "Su Mama's Tangyuan," each earning three bowls.
- Qiaotoubian Meatballs: Operating for over half a century, this establishment is now in its third generation, continuing the tradition of using fresh ingredients to preserve authentic flavors, drawing long lines of diners.
- Banana Leaf Kuih: Located in Zhongxing New Village, this snack shop is famous for involving senior volunteers from the community in preparation, fostering a warm and supportive atmosphere. It serves as a gathering place for local elders while keeping costs low.
- Su Mama's Tangyuan: Owner Cai Bichun adheres to traditional methods, preserving the original flavor of tangyuan. From rice selection to production, every detail is meticulously managed, to pass down this classic taste to future generations.
Celebrity Judges Expand Culinary Horizons
The evaluation involved prominent figures from various fields, including food writer Lu Yi'an, celebrity chef Chen Hong, actors Li Qianna and Lei Jiayu, and the Taiwanese hip-hop group Chao Tun Boys. Their diverse perspectives unearthed the best local delicacies. The complete list is available on the event's official website, offering a comprehensive food map for visitors to explore Nantou's snacks.
Banana Leaf Kuih Located in Zhongxing New Village Earned a 3-Bowl Rating (Image/Source: Nantou County Government Website)
Through the "Nantou 100 Bowls" initiative, the Nantou County Government aims not only to promote local snacks but also to share Nantou's delicious flavors nationwide, inviting everyone to experience the region's culture and hospitality.
Official Website:Nantou 100 Bowls Award(https://topic.udn.com/newstopic/nantou_100bowlsaward)
