Xiaolongbao to try at Din Tai Fung
Three types of soup dumplings to experience in Taipei's famous restaurant chain
No visit to Din Tai Fung is complete without an order of xiaolongbao. The restaurant's famous soup dumplings are the star attraction, drawing diners from around the world with their paper-thin skins and carefully balanced fillings.
Most people start with the classic pork version, but there are others on the menu worth checking out. From the original crowd-pleaser to a truffle-filled splurge and a chocolate dessert dumpling, here are three versions to consider ordering.
#1: Pork Xiaolongbao
The dish that made Din Tai Fung famous
Pork Xiaolongbao are the Din Tai Fung classic that made the restaurant famous, and they are taken very seriously. Each dumpling is individually weighed, filled, rolled, and folded by hand to meet the restaurant's exact standards.
Known for their delicate, paper-thin skin, each dumpling contains juicy pork and a spoonful of hot, savory broth.
There are instructions on the table explaining how to eat them, and your server will be happy to tell you the ideal mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and fresh ginger. If you're trying xiaolongbao for the first time, you're advised not to dip it in any sauce, so you can fully appreciate the flavor.
The classic pork version costs NT$140 for five pieces or NT$280 for 10.
#2: Truffle and Pork Xiaolongbao
An indulgent twist on the classic dumpling
If you're feeling extravagant, the Truffle and Pork Xiaolongbao is one of Din Tai Fung's most bougie offerings.
Each dumpling is filled with juicy pork and slices of truffle, creating a rich combination that smashes the senses from the first bite. The strong, earthy aroma of the truffle will be a hit among fans of the fungus.
You're advised to enjoy the dumplings without any dipping sauce or ginger, so you can fully appreciate the flavor. Expect servers to bring you a clean dipping bowl and spoon to make sure the taste isn't affected by any leftover sauce.
The biggest drawback is the price. At NT$500 for five dumplings, they are significantly more expensive per-bite than anything else on the menu.
#3: Chocolate Xiaolongbao
The dessert dumpling you didn't know you needed
Easy to miss on the packed menu, Chocolate Xiaolongbao is a fun dessert twist on Din Tai Fung's signature dish.
Each dumpling is filled with warm, melted chocolate that flows out when bitten into. Made with imported French dark chocolate, the filling combines sweet, bitter, nutty, and roasted notes.
According to Din Tai Fung, diners can expect an intense cocoa flavor followed by hints of coffee and chestnuts. Some branches also recommend ordering a side of salted cream, which adds a sweet and salty contrast.
At NT$175 for five dumplings or NT$350 for 10, they are reasonably priced and perfect for sharing.
They proved surprisingly divisive among This Is Taipei's party, with half of us loving them, while the other half remained unconvinced. Whether you love them or not, they are one of the most special items on the menu.
