阿柑姨芋圓 — Restaurant in New Taipei

In the enchanting, fog-shrouded mountain town of Jiufen, where every alley seems to lead to another breathtaking view, a culinary legend reigns supreme: the humble taro ball. While many shops vie for the title of "best," A-Gan-yi Taro Ball stands out as a true destination, a place where a simple dessert becomes an unforgettable experience.

Climbing the narrow, winding streets of Jiufen Old Street, you might be tempted to stop at one of the first taro ball shops you see. But to miss A-Gan-yi would be a mistake. Tucked away on a higher slope, the shop's unassuming entrance hides a surprising secret: a sprawling seating area in the back that opens up to a spectacular panoramic view of the mountains and the sea. The moment you find a seat, you are rewarded not just with a delicious treat, but with a lovely spot to relax and take in the stunning scenery, turning a simple snack break into a cherished moment.

The star of the show, of course, is the taro ball itself. At A-Gan-yi, you can see the magic happen through a glass window near the entrance, where the taro and sweet potato balls are made fresh and by hand. This commitment to traditional methods results in a truly exceptional product: the taro balls possess a perfect balance of chewiness and bounce, a testament to their freshness.

You have the choice of a hot or cold dessert. On a chilly, windy day, the hot version is an absolute revelation. The sweet soup, with its subtle sweetness, is incredibly comforting and perfectly complements the taro balls. The soup is also generously filled with a delightful mix of beans, including two types of red beans and mung beans, which add a rich, earthy flavor and a different texture to every spoonful. While my family, who are not fans of beans, chose to have the taro balls on their own, the option is a great one, allowing everyone to customize their bowl.

We also tried the cold, shaved-ice version, a tempting option on a warmer day. While the taro balls remained excellent, the ice itself was a little coarse and did not mix as well as we hoped. However, the quality of the taro balls still shone through, a testament to their superior taste and texture.

The taro balls here are smooth and packed with a full, authentic flavor, whether they are purple, yellow, or a natural yam color. They are not just a snack; they are the definitive version of a local delicacy.

Verdict

A-Gan-yi Taro Ball is more than just a place to get dessert; it is an essential part of the Jiufen experience. The flawless texture and flavor of its handmade taro balls, combined with the spectacular mountain view from its seating area, make it a destination in itself. While I personally prefer the soft, soothing warmth of the hot version, both options are a testament to the shop’s quality. I would enthusiastically recommend A-Gan-yi as a must-try for any visitor to Jiufen who wants a true taste of local culture and an...

I love this place! Stumbled upon it when I was exploring the streets of Jiufen at night, the storefront looked old and authentic. Since the price was reasonable and the staff looked friendly, I got a bowl to try.

When I first tasted the taro balls, I was pleasantly surprised. The taro, sweet potato and green bean balls were warm, soft and chewy. I wasn't expecting it to be so good. The beans were slightly too sweet, but after mixing them with the ice underneath, the sweetness was just right.

There's a lovely dining area that overlooks Jiufen. I didn't manage to see much as I went at night but I'm sure the views will be...

Climb up a vertical flight of stairs to get to this place. It’s not on the main vendor street like the other taro ball place and instead it’s tucked up the flight of stairs. Service is no nonsense so don’t dilly dally when you step up. Decide what you want and then order or else you slow up their rhythm! Simple menu to choose from and the cup is a nice size for one person or to share if you want to try different things. The taro balls are nice and soft making them easy to eat!

A bonus: After purchasing you get ushered to a section with tables and chairs where the view from where you can enjoy your...