De Yu Fish Balls Introduction
In 1953, a young couple, Hong Bing-jian and Hong Hsu-feng, opened their first store beside the Fuyou Temple (Ma Zu Temple). Every morning at five o'clock, the small shop is filled with eager buyers. Fresh fish caught from the Tamsui Fish Harbor is skillfully prepared by experienced chefs, removing excess gills and scales. Each type of fresh fish product is paired with a unique recipe, such as spinach fish balls and nutritious fish crisps enriched with DHA and calcium. De Yu’s fish paste products are very popular and are even the designated ingredients for the famous Tamsui Ah-gei old shop. Taking over the Red House to preserve Tamsui's memories, in 1963, the Hong family became the caretakers of the famous landmark "Red House" in Tamsui. Amidst extensive development by corporations, the Hong family decided to preserve the historical value of the "Red House." In 1999, they restored it to its original appearance, allowing the "Red House," built in the late 19th century and spanning three centuries, to continue standing on the hillside of the ferry pier, serving as a century witness to Tamsui's development. When visiting De Yu, in addition to purchasing fish balls and fish crisps, don’t forget to climb the stairs next to the shop to enjoy the beautiful views of the red brick architecture and appreciate the dedication of this old shop rooted in Tamsui.
