Location: Yilan, Yishunxuan Bakery
Travel Notes: Yilan has a famous bakery called Yishunxuan, which sells Yilan cakes, mochi, nougat, zhuangyuan cakes, and pineapple cakes. A long time ago, I once joined a group order with colleagues for their handmade mochi (10 pieces for 100 NTD). Recently, during a trip to Yilan, I had the chance to visit the main store. What I appreciated most is that, unlike many popular shops that neglect customer service once business booms—like that braised pork restaurant in Sanshing—Yishunxuan has many friendly staff who greet you warmly. Besides excellent service, they even offer you drinks occasionally. Even when the store is crowded, it doesn’t feel overwhelming. In terms of service alone, they do an outstanding job. This time, I bought mochi and Yilan cakes; both were quite good—the mochi is chewy, and the Yilan cake is light and crispy. Yishunxuan also offers delivery, so you don’t have to visit in person to enjoy their treats. :) Address: No. 160, Minquan Road, Luodong Town. Phone: (03)9550216-7. Website: http://www.pon.com.tw By Morgan on 2007.8.13