Dumplings and Pork Chops
I was watching Anthony Bourdain's "The Layover - Taipei" a couple of weeks ago. I figured that a must stop was at the famous "Din Tai Fung", which he did at the end of his trip.
I've had friends who have waited up to two hours in Taiwan to sample Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings). So, when I see pictures on Facebook or they tell me about this incredible soup dumplings place in Taiwan, I tell them that Din Tai Fung has two locations in Southern California and the longest I've waited is 35 minutes.
Din Tai Fung's mascot
When you check in at Din Tai Fung, they give you an order sheet and a number. If you've never been, there is a picture menu on the window. Usually the first-timers are in front of the menu trying to figure it out. Once seated, your orders start coming out of the kitchen.
To help you out, here's what Jay Eats and some of my favorites:
Shrimp and Pork Wonton
with Spicy Sauce
It was a new item for me to try,
but I think it needs to be a bit spicier.
Shrimp and Pork Shao Mai
A favorite...
My ALL TIME Din Tai Fung FAVORITE
Pork Chop Fried Rice
The pork chop is cooked just right,
not greasy at all.
Take a good look on the order sheet,
I've ordered the pork fried rice before and
when it arrived at the table, no pork chop.
Yes, it's happened more than one time...
Now for the reason to go...
Juicy Pork Dumplings
Xiao Long Bao
or
Soup Dumplings
Be careful, the soup inside is really hot when they
bring it to the table.
Have it with some
Ginger
Just add a bit of Black Vinegar
Sticky Rice and Pork Shao Mai
Different texture and something that I thought
would be just OK, was actually good.
If you don't like sticky rice, may not like it...
Different texture and something that I thought
would be just OK, was actually good.
If you don't like sticky rice, may not like it...
There are two Din Tai Fung locations, the two buildings are right next to each other. The original location opens first and 30 minutes later the new side opens. Hence, the new side stays open later too, the hours at each place are staggered. Each has the same menu and you'll get the same Din Tai Fung experience.
1108 S Baldwin Avenue
Arcadia, CA 91007
(626) 574-7068
(Second Location)
1088 S Baldwin Avenue
Arcadia, CA 91007
(626) 446-8588
While you're at the original location, checkout the JJ Bakery across the parking lot, they have a lot of great breads, cakes, and pastries. Walk through the parking lot over to the shopping center behind, lots of great places to eat there too...
Photos by Jay Terauchi
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