Story perspectives

San Gabriel Restaurant Removes Stinky Tofu Amid Complaints

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Taiwanese restaurant in San Gabriel, California removed stinky tofu after complaints about its odor.
The city issued violation notices over the smell, which David Liao, the restaurant's owner, says is subjective.
City Council Member John Wu acknowledged the complaints but noted many restaurants serve stinky tofu without issues.
Liao is considering a costly filtration system and hopes the situation spurs a broader discussion on preserving cultural foods.

1 of 1

Story summary

A Taiwanese restaurant in San Gabriel, California removed stinky tofu after complaints about its odor.
The city issued violation notices over the smell, which David Liao, the restaurant's owner, says is subjective.
City Council Member John Wu acknowledged the complaints but noted many restaurants serve stinky tofu without issues.
Liao is considering a costly filtration system and hopes the situation spurs a broader discussion on preserving cultural foods.