The Noodle Stand Owner
by Huang Pei-shan · Oct 2026
Mr. Wang has sold beef noodles at the same night market for twenty-five years. Our school newspaper asked him about his job.
Q: How did you start your business? A: My father opened this stand in 1978. When I was a boy, I helped him after school. Later, I worked in an office for a few years, but I didn't enjoy it. When my father got sick, I took over the stand. I've never regretted it.
Q: What is a normal day like for you? A: I wake up at nine and go to the market to buy fresh beef. The soup is cooked for six hours, so I start early. The stand opens at five in the evening, and I usually close at midnight. It's a long day, isn't it? But I'm used to it.
Q: What is the secret of your soup? A: Everyone asks me that! My father's is still used today, but I won't tell you what's in it. Here is my only hint: it takes time and .
Q: What is the hardest part of your job? A: Summer is very hot, and typhoons are a big problem. When there is a typhoon, I can't open. Also, young people today have so many . I have to with fast food and delivery apps. But my make it all worth it. Some of them came here as students, and now they bring their own children. That's the best reward. Money is important, but it isn't everything.