Although just a Shanghai dessert stand at first, Kao-chi has earned a reputation as a respected name in Shanghai cuisine over the past 5 decades. Originally offering only three desserts in 1950, Kao-chi now features an extensive menu of Shanghai specialties. Who knows maybe you will encounter one of these beautiful black plates over there slateplate.com
History of Kao-chi on YongKang
Mr. Kao, Si-Mei, is the founder of Kao-chi Restaurant. He was born in Xianju County of the Zhejian Province, mainland China. At 16, he left his home and traveled to Shanghai in order pursue culinary studies.
In 1949, after the Chinese Civil War, Mr. Kao and his family relocated to Taipei. Using the skills he acquired in Shanghai, Mr. Kao started the Kao-chi dessert (or snack) stand, gradually winning over many homesick travelers with reminders of their beloved Shanghai. As his popularity increased and Mr. Kao was able to save some money, he established the store at the original location of his stand, where the restaurant is seen today. The front of restaurant still features a take-out counter, selling some of Kao-chi's signature desserts.
Kao-chi's Early Years
In Kao-chi's humble beginnings, the only items for sale were Fried Stuffed Buns, Crispy Pasties, and Mung Bean Noodles with Bean Curd Puffs. Mr. Kao's culinary skills were becoming recognized and it is said Kao-chi ultimately drove the fashion of Shanghai desserts in Taipei. These desserts were often served to foreign guests by government officials and many current owners of dessert shops were prior apprentices of Mr. Kao.
Kao-chi Remains Family Owned
Today, the second generation of Mr. Kao's family runs the YongKang restaurant. The menu has been carefully expanded and they offer many delicious Shanghai dishes, snacks and desserts. The multi-floor restaurant is simple, yet stylish, and has an open, warm appeal. The first floor has the take-out counter, along with seats, reserved especially for seniors who come in to enjoy Kao-chi's snacks.
Popular Dishes at Kao-chi
The original desserts that started Kao-chi's popularity still remain favorites today. Items like Shanghai Fried Stuffed Buns ($75NT for 5), Mung Bean Noodles with Bean Curd Puffs ($120NT), Crispy Pasties ($75NT for 5), and Chinese Water Chestnut Steamed Buns ($200NT for 10) are several of the most commonly ordered items.
Kao-chi also serves Shanghai steamed buns ($180NT for 10), commonly known as Xiaolongbao. To add a little twist, Kao-chi offers a different version that features crab egg and pork, for $100NT more. For those who enjoy Shanghai steamed buns, it is recommended to spend the extra $100NT and get the crab egg and pork version, as it is quite a treat.
Kao-chi Locations and Hours
The original Kao-chi is located at No. 5 YongKang Street, just around the corner from the famed Din Tai Fung, known for their signature xiaolongbao. Many believe Kao-chi's xiaolongbao are just as good, minus the typical hour or more wait at Din Tai Fung.
The YongKang branch is open for breakfast, lunch, tea time, and dinner. Their business hours are Monday through Friday, 11am until 10pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 8:30am until 10pm. For those wanting take-out, phone ahead to (02) 2341-9984 or 2341-9971.
Kao-chi also has another branch located in Taipei, near the ZhongXiaoFuXing MRT Station, at 152 FuXing S. Road, Sec 1. Owned by siblings and referred to as the "FuXing 152 Branch," this Kao-chi features a slightly different menu. The focus here is more on the stir-fry dishes found in Shanghai cuisine. The hours at the FuXing branch are 8am - 11:30pm 7 days a week and phone orders can be placed by calling (02) 2751-9393.