Freshness is what Mr. Hsu cares about most, so every batch is made and sold the same day—never kept overnight. Only the finest ingredients are used; no corners are cut. That uncompromising commitment is how Ah-Lan Herbal Rice Cakes earned their reputation for generous fillings and one-of-a-kind flavor. Knowing that glutinous rice can cause bloating, Mr. Hsu replaced mugwort with gnaphalium, a gentler herb. Half a century of success comes down to one simple trick: care for the product, care for the customer. Recently, Ah-Lan began offering home delivery, letting customers in central and southern Taiwan taste these lovingly crafted cakes without the long trip to Jiufen. “It’s our way of giving back,” Mr. Hsu says.