Your ultimate guide to a day in Xinzhuang4 must-try food and craft venues, from local barbecue to pottery workshops

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, beyond the freshness of the ingredients, the acidity of the vinegared rice, the texture of the grains, and the richness and depth of the miso soup are all crucial elements. Yuduotian Japanese Cuisine passed every single one of these checks!

This time, we ordered the incredibly generous seafood donburi and salmon donburi. Every slice of freshly cut sashimi was incredibly fresh and delightfully firm, yet the fattier parts melted in your mouth, leaving a lingering, delicious flavor that still makes my mouth water just thinking about it! It's truly rare to find Japanese cuisine this impeccable and reasonably priced.

Yuduotian Fuda Branch

• Address: No. 5, Jianguo 1st Rd, Xinzhuang District, New Taipei City
• Hours: 11:00-21:00
• Average Spend: $200-$400

This time, we've specially arranged a two-in-one experience for you! After a satisfying meal at Yu Duo Tian, you can head upstairs to Small Things Pottery Studio for a pottery session. Small Things Pottery Studio offers a wide array of unexpected items to create, from incense holders and pudding cups to flower vases and even four-piece nail art sets. Whether you choose hand-building or wheel throwing, everyone can craft a unique and adorable ceramic piece.

The instructor provides incredibly attentive, hands-on guidance, making it perfect for beginners with no prior experience. But don't worry, there's also plenty of creative freedom! During the experience, I even considered signing up for a regular class; making pottery here is truly fun and relaxing. Remember to make a reservation before you come to avoid disappointment or finding no available spots!

After your pottery session, take a stroll over for afternoon tea! This QQ Egg and Sesame Ball venue has been a local favorite in Xinzhuang for 26 years, renowned for its traditional flavors. There's almost always a long line here, and you even need to take a number. That's because, in addition to using clean, clear frying oil, every QQ egg and sesame ball is made and fried fresh to order. They come out a beautiful, even golden color, with a crispy shell and a sweet, chewy interior. It's clear why this popular spot always has a queue!

QQ Egg and Sesame Ball

• Address: No. 2, Jianfeng St., Xinzhuang Dist., New Taipei City
• Hours: 14:30-21:30

You can enjoy fresh seafood without going to the coast at Mao Ai Chi, a seafood BBQ venue that sources the freshest ingredients directly from the fishing port. It's a true delight for gourmands, showcasing the natural flavors of the ingredients without heavy sauces. We especially recommend the thick-cut beef and mentaiko yam. If you love seafood, the fresh shrimp and scallops, and the oyster omelet are also excellent!

The venue features a semi-open kitchen design, yet there's no trace of cooking odors, making for a very pleasant dining experience. However, please note that the venue does not serve any main dishes, so come prepared to feast on a wide variety of seafood!

Mao Ai Chi Seafood BBQ

• Address: Across from the alley entrance at No. 135, Fuqian Street, Xinzhuang District
• Hours: 12:00-22:00, closed Mondays