BALLS OF STEAMY EXPLOSION!

This is my second outing to the renowned Din Tai Fung, an extremely popular restaurant that has become an icon and major tourist attraction, especially for Japanese visitors. Employees at Din Tai Fung are required to be fluent in Chinese, Japanese AND English and apparently pull in very hefty paychecks. But it makes sense cuz there is ALWAYS a line here. Not sure if I'll be back again so here's some pics:


The cornerstone of this place is this concoction of ginger slices and vinegar. I usually despise the taste of ginger, but I can't get enough of it here.


The prize is unveiled in a fury of aromatic steam. I think these are pork buns?


This one is shrimp?


A completed piece, ready for consumption. The trick is to get all the toppings on without breaking the skin of the bun, thus letting all the soup within escape. If done correctly, the explosion of elegant fire in your mouth is pretty yumyum.


Veggie?


These sure look scrumptious but were very disappointing once it reached the oral region. From the looks of it, you'd expect that bottom sac to explode with delicious juices, but nope...no juices..


It still looks cool though!


Justin and Melissa practicing their coordinated eating routines.


Giant fried rice. Everyone raves about this but I really don't see what's so great about it. It's definitely very enjoyable, but nothing I'd dream about.


Dan Dan mien. A hint of spiciness within a bed of peanut sauce, fused with noodles to create a buttery and sandy texture.


My excellent photography skills.