Since entering the U.S. market in 2021, Taiwan’s Duan’s Kitchen has been rapidly expanding, and on July 13, it will open a new location at Oakridge Mall in San Jose. The new store will also debut a new menu item — “Taiwanese Handmade Xiao Long Bao” — available in original, spicy, and shrimp flavors. By introducing these dumplings to the mainstream market, Duan’s Kitchen aims to further deepen the impression of Taiwanese cuisine in the U.S.
Duan’s Kitchen USA stated that the “Taiwanese Traditional Handmade Xiao Long Bao” is a newly developed dish, distinct from the more common soup-filled xiao long tang bao. The franchise owner longed for the flavors of traditional Taiwanese xiao long bao, reminiscent of the street-corner snacks from their childhood. Since the mall also has a movie theater, these dumplings make for a convenient snack. In addition to xiao long bao, the menu also features popcorn chicken, various fried snacks, and beverages — all of which are perfect for Oakridge Mall’s core shoppers. For those wanting to dine in, their signature beef noodles and pork chop rice are also great choices.
Oakridge Mall is located in South San Jose, an area that historically had more mainstream white or Hispanic families. In recent years, however, with the influx of new immigrants to Silicon Valley, many Asian immigrants have begun moving to South San Jose. The area’s more affordable housing compared to other districts, good living environment, and convenient transportation have attracted more Asian, Chinese, and Taiwanese families to settle there. As a result, more Asian restaurants have opened in Oakridge Mall.
Duan’s Kitchen first gained fame with its unique “23-spice” beef noodle recipe, rooted in the flavors of Taiwan’s military dependents’ village cuisine. It built a strong reputation in Taiwan, especially in the Hsinchu Science Park area. Silicon Valley engineers who once worked in Hsinchu recall that over a decade ago — before Duan’s Kitchen began franchising — almost everyone in the Science Park knew about it. Among the most unforgettable dishes, aside from the beef noodles, was their signature braised snack platter.
Duan’s Kitchen USA will open a new location at Oakridge Mall in San Jose on July 13, targeting the mainstream market and expected to attract moviegoers. (Photo courtesy of the company)
Duan’s Kitchen was later acquired by publicly listed company LucHorn International, which operates more than a dozen locations across Taiwan. Outside of Hong Kong, its second overseas expansion plan targeted the United States, with Northern California’s Silicon Valley as the focal point.
Duan’s Kitchen USA stated that its expansion plans are ongoing, with the goal of promoting Taiwan’s authentic beef noodle culture from its Silicon Valley base to a wider audience. The brand has already opened locations in Cupertino, Fremont, and South San Jose. In the future, there is a strong possibility of expanding beyond Northern California into other parts of the U.S., and even other states, bringing Taiwanese beef noodle culture nationwide as a powerful ambassador of Taiwan’s cuisine to the world.
To celebrate Duan’s Kitchen USA’s opening at Oakridge Mall in South San Jose, on July 13 and 14 customers can enjoy 50% off xiao long bao by presenting the coupon from the World Journal’s promotional ad — either from the print edition or the World Journal San Francisco Facebook page. The promotion is only available for two days, so be sure to take advantage while it lasts.
To celebrate Duan’s Kitchen USA’s opening at Oakridge Mall in South San Jose, customers can enjoy 50% off xiao long bao on July 13 and 14 by presenting the coupon from the World Journal’s promotional ad — either from the print edition or the World Journal San Francisco Facebook page. The offer is valid for two days only, so don’t miss out. (Photo courtesy of Duan’s Kitchen)