Jiang Ji Jiu Ji in Miaoli has moved from its original spot to a much larger space. When I first saw the new storefront, I even doubted my own memory—was this the same place? Despite the expansion, the crowds haven't thinned out at all; it’s as popular as ever. Finding a parking spot around here used to be a nightmare, and there were several times I gave up simply because the lines were too long. But this time, I decided it had been long enough—I needed to come back and relive those familiar flavors.
I’ve always had a soft spot for Crystal Dumplings, though I’ve cut back recently for health reasons because of that chewy, starchy skin. I used to buy them fresh from the traditional market to cook at home. In Miaoli, there are at least three famous spots for crystal dumplings, and Jiang Ji Jiu Ji is just one of them—the others are actually quite close by. It really comes down to personal preference, but I chose this spot today because their operating hours fit my schedule perfectly.
Their selection of side dishes (Xiao Cai) is quite impressive, and the flavors are solid across the board.
And check this out—this is a "Miaoli Hot Dog"! It’s probably nothing like what you’re imagining, right? (In Miaoli, "hot dogs" are actually a unique local snack made of minced fish paste and vegetables).
I ended up ordering the "Big Three" staples: Crystal Dumplings, Bawan (Meatballs), and Wonton Soup. The soup base for all of them is essentially the same—a classic, old-school broth that’s light, refreshing, and not greasy at all. It’s the kind of soup you can actually finish. Both the Bawan and the crystal dumplings have a great "Q" (chewy) texture, though the Bawan filling was a bit sparse; it definitely tastes better once you mix in their signature sauce. You can also customize the flavor with the condiments on the side.
Is it mind-blowingly amazing? Probably not. But for me, it’s about the memories. It’s a taste of the past. As these old-school flavors slowly disappear, it becomes harder and harder to find the real deal. You never know when a taste might vanish forever, so I cherish every chance I get to eat here. Sometimes, these traditional flavors are better precisely because they aren't as over-complicated as modern seasonings.
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