Jay Eats Worldwide

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 ite...

All I heard was dumplings and I was in... Met up with Six Taste Food Tours for their "Delicious Dumpling" tour in Arcadia, just East of Pasadena. This tour was to experience Taiwanese cuisine, culture, and a chance to meet other foodies. Our group was 8 people and with large appetites, we headed out to sample the best and most popular dishes in this Taiwanese neighborhood. See What Jay Eats... Our first stop, the world famous Din Tai Fung . Our guide Michael Lin giving us Din Tai Fung information before attacking the dumplings. Appetizer Course Blanched cucumbers in a sesame chili oil Michael pointed out that in Chinese cooking, vegetables are not served raw, they're either stir-fried, steamed, or blanched. Shanghai Rice Cake Michael gave us a quick lesson on tea etiquette and the correct way to flag down a server in a busy restaurant. Pork Chop Fried Rice This is one of my favorite Din Tai Fu...