De Yu Fish Balls Introduction
In 1953, a young couple, Hong Bing-jian and Hong Hsu-feng, opened their first shop next to Fuyou Temple (Mazu Temple). Every morning at five o'clock, the small shop would bustle with customers. Fresh fish caught from Tamsui Fish Harbor was expertly prepared by skilled masters, removing excess gills and scales. Each type of fish product was paired with a unique recipe, such as spinach fish balls and nutrient-rich fish flakes enriched with DHA and calcium. Deyu's fish paste products became very popular and were even the designated ingredient for the old shop "A-gei" in Tamsui. In 1963, the Hong family took over the famous landmark "Hong Lou" in Tamsui. Amidst rampant development by corporations, the Hong family decided to preserve the historical value of "Hong Lou." In 1999, adhering to the principle of restoring its original appearance, they allowed "Hong Lou," built in the late 19th century and spanning three centuries, to stand resiliently on the hillside by the ferry pier, becoming a testament to Tamsui's development. When visiting Deyu, in addition to purchasing fish balls and fish flakes, don't forget to walk up the stairs in the alley next to the shop to enjoy the beautiful red brick architecture and experience the dedication of this long-standing shop rooted in Tamsui.
