Formosa Chang - Tamsui (Xinshi)

Taiwan-wide fast-casual chain serving traditional comfort food from a storefront in Tamsui. Founded in 1960 as a street stall by Chang Yan-chuan, who earned the nickname "bearded Chang" from regulars. The signature dish is lu rou fan — fatty pork braised in sweet soy sauce ladled over rice, which won a voter's choice award at Taipei City's Traditional Food Carnival. Other options include chicken rice with light gravy, pork rib and bitter gourd soup, and deep-fried pork chop. The setup mimics a traditional Taiwanese eatery with wooden tables and stools but runs like a fast-casual operation with consistent portions, efficient service, and soft jazz in the background. Lunchboxes available with rice, vegetables, tofu, and a tea egg. The chain now operates 73 locations across Taiwan plus branches in China and Japan.