I have visited this place at least 10 times in the last 2 weeks. While there are plenty of excellent joints for eel noodles in Tainan, there is a handful I would consider exceptional. Depending on my mood, my favorite can change. This place comes out on top most of the time. The key to exceptional eel noodles really comes down to the following list in order: freshness (that's why location matters) skillz (this goes with the next one) BTU (woking without the right amount of high heat to go with the skills is just a waste to the eels who gave up their lives for my belly) flavor (distant 4th)
All my favorite joints in Tainan's got the first 3 locked. What sets this place apart is really the willingness to sprinkle some chili flakes in the process. It's not spicy (at least not to me), but it enhances the taste by a good magnitude.
I'd say give it a try. I highly...
Read moreIn Tainan, a city celebrated for its culinary heritage, Eastern Castle Noodle stands out with its iconic stir-fried eel noodles. This isn’t just a dish; it’s a Tainan institution. The “wok hei”—the prized, smoky essence from a searing hot wok—is immediately apparent, with the aroma of the flash-fried noodles hitting you first. The eel itself is the star—tender yet firm, coated in a savory, slightly sweet glaze that perfectly complements its delicate flavor. Sautéed with crisp snow peas, onions, and scallions, the textures are a delightful contrast. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of smoky noodles, rich eel, and fresh vegetables, making it an essential...
Read moreI'm on a business trip to Tainan and tried the local specialty, eel noodles. The ambiance of this restaurant isn't great, but the flavor is exceptional. The seasoning is well-balanced, with the eel being refreshingly crisp and delicious. The pork kidney soup is also rich and flavorful, making one's mouth water. Unfortunately, parking nearby is a little bit difficult and there's no option to adjust the spiciness. Although the eel noodles include peas and fresh onions, the addition of fresh chili peppers could elevate the dish to...
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