Hualien Cuisine | Da Hong fan Ginger Duck | Not Just Ginger Duck, but also Stir-fry and Barbecue

In 201x, I had a meal at either an old banyan tree or under a banyan tree in Hualien. When I went to Hualien in February 2024, I wanted to find it again, but I wasn't sure if it was still there. My impression of it was good back then, and even my dad remembers its name. However, despite searching and asking my local friend, all I found was Da Hong Fan Ginger Duck, with a signboard hanging outside that said "Old Banyan Tree". But I couldn't be certain if it was the same place from before, as my memory of the location was a bit fuzzy after so many years.

The funniest thing is that my brother and his friend had been talking about coming to this Da Hong Fan Ginger Duck place before, but they never actually did it. So, this time, I'll just consider it as helping my local friend scout the place. Eating here really is best with a group; it's not as enjoyable with too few people, and choosing dishes becomes a bit of a dilemma. Besides ginger duck, they also offer stir-fries and barbecue. The dining area is quite spacious, accommodating many guests. It's sure to be lively on weekends and evenings!

We almost arrived at the opening time, just half an hour after the restaurant opened. We were the first group of customers inside. Gradually, more people started to come in. We finished our meal before 7 o'clock, which was still early considering it was just when others were starting their dinner!

There's also a semi-outdoor space!

The highlight was definitely the ginger duck! Its flavor was different from the broth I've had in Taipei. When I first tasted it, I found it quite unique. I'm not sure if it contained pepper, but it didn't taste too greasy. However, there was quite a bit of oil floating on top, which could be skimmed off as needed. The meat had a good texture, quite chewy, so those with weak teeth might find it a bit challenging. It wasn't tender, but it was of normal quality.

There were quite a few drawbacks with the stir-fried dishes. We were the only table at the time, yet the service was slow, and it took quite a while for the dishes to be served. What's more, the temperature of the dishes was lukewarm, not hot. Additionally, the attitude of the staff that day was just average; it seemed like they weren't in the best mood. Overall, the taste was still decent, though.

大紅蕃薑母鴨 家常菜 燒烤-旗艦總店
地址：970花蓮縣花蓮市明智街69號
電話：038325000