2024 Ultimate Taiwan Food Guide: Must-Try Taiwanese Dishes, Taipei Night Market Guide & Insider Tips

Introduction

Taipei, Taiwan’s bustling capital, is a foodie’s paradise famous for its unique blend of traditional Taiwanese flavors and influences from the Japanese, Chinese Min Nan, and Hokkien communities. Voted by the readers of CNN as one of the world’s best food destinations, Taipei offers a dazzling array of iconic dishes, from beef noodle soup, and lu rou fan (braised pork rice) to xiaolongbao. In Taipei alone, there are 18 night markets to explore, including the famous Shilin Night Market and Raohe Night Market, not to mention delicious snacks like an oyster omelet and stinky tofu that shaped Taiwan’s vibrant food culture. To find out the most famous food and must-try Taiwanese dishes, delve into this ultimate Taiwan food guide and embark on a food tour for the best bites!

Top 15 Taiwanese Food You Must-Try

What are the best bites in Taiwan? Here is our list of the most popular and must-eat Taiwanese dishes:

Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵)

Beef noodle soup is Taiwan’s ultimate comfort food! Featuring tender beef, rich broth, veggies, and chewy noodles all in one bowl, it’s so popular there’s even an annual festival in Taipei where chefs battle it out to be the “beef noodle king.” For an authentic taste, try Lin Dong Fang‘s famous Chinese herbal broth or Lao Wang Ji on Tao Yuan Street.

When ordering, you’ll find different options to suit your taste – from spicy, red-braised broths to milder, soothing versions. Choose your noodle texture and soup base to match your preference. Whatever you pick, you’re in for a flavorful, classic Taiwanese experience!

Recommendations: Best Beef Noodle Soup in Taipei

• Lin Dong Fang Beef Noodles (林東芳牛肉麵)
  Address: No. 322, Section 2, Bade Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Moday-Sunday, 11 AM–3 AM

• Lao Wang Ji Beef Noodles (老王記牛肉麵)
  Address: No. 15, Taoyuan St, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Friday, 11 AM–2:30 PM, 5–7:30 PM, Saturday, 11 AM–3:30 PM (Closed Sunday)

• Yong Kang Beef Noodles (永康牛肉麵)
  Address: No. 17, Lane 31, Section 2, Jinshan S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11 AM-8:30 PM

Xiaolongbao (小籠包)

In Taiwan, one dish stands out as an absolute must-try: xiaolongbao, a delicate soup-filled dumpling that is nothing short of a flavor explosion! While you’ll find xiaolongbao in many places, Din Tai Fung is the undisputed champion. Here, the dumplings are meticulously crafted, with broth that bursts out with each bite.

The trick to eating these like a pro? Use a spoon to catch the hot broth, then pierce the delicate skin and slurp the soup before savoring the rest of the dumpling. Trust us—you don’t want to burn your mouth from diving in too quickly!

Recommendations: Best Xiaolongbao in Taipei

• Hang Zhou Xiao Long Bao (杭州小籠湯包)
  Address: No. 19, Section 2, Hangzhou S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11 AM–2:30 PM, 4:30–9 PM

• Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
  Various locations in Taipei. See the official site for info.

• Shengyuan Xiao Long Bao (盛園小籠湯包)
  Address: No. 1, Lane 25, Section 2, Hangzhou S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11 AM–2:30 PM, 4:30–9:30 PM (Closed Wednesday)

Lu Rou Fan / Braised Pork Rice (滷肉飯)

If there’s one dish that will win you over in Taiwan, it’s Lu Rou Fan! This hearty bowl of braised pork rice is slow-cooked until tender and served over steaming white rice, often topped with green onions or pickled mustard greens. The magic lies in the fragrant sauce—soy, sugar, and spices creating a savory, rich gravy that coats every grain. Pair it with a braised egg or tofu for a simple and fulfilling meal!

Recommendations: Best Lu Rou Fan in Taipei

• Huang Ji Braised Pork (黃記魯肉飯)
  Address: No. 28, Lane 183, Section 2, Zhongshan N Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:30 AM–8:20 PM (Closed Monday)

• Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice (金峰魯肉飯)
  Address: No. 10, Section 1, Roosevelt Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11 AM–1 AM, Sunday, 11 AM–11 PM (Closed Monday)

• Tian Tian Li Delicacies (天天利美食坊)
  Address: No. 1, Lane 32, Hanzhong Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM–10:30 PM (Closed Monday)

Oyster Omelet (蚵仔煎)

The oyster omelet is a true street food icon in Taiwan. Fresh oysters are mixed with eggs and sweet potato starch, then pan-fried until crispy and chewy. Topped with a sweet and spicy sauce, each bite is a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more. Loved by locals and travelers, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to dive into the heart of Taiwan’s street food culture.

Recommendations: Best Oyster Omelet in Taipei

• East Rock Oyster Restaurant (東石蚵仔小吃店)
  Address: No. 251, Jilin Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11 AM–3 PM, 5–10:30 PM

• Lai Ji Oyster Omelet (賴記雞蛋蚵仔煎)
  Address: No. 198-22, Minsheng W Rd, Datong District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday to Sunday, 4 PM–1 AM (Closed Tuesday)

• Yuen Huan Pien Oyster Egg Omelette (圓環邊蚵仔煎)
  Address: No. 46, Ningxia Rd, Datong District, Taipei City
  Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12–2:30 PM, 4:30 PM–12:30 AM (Closed Monday and Tuesday)

Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)

Stinky tofu is one of Taiwan’s “love-it-or-hate-it” street foods, but for the brave ones not afraid of its strong smell, it is a treat of perfection! With a crispy, deep-fried exterior and a creamy, custardy interior, stinky tofu in Taiwan is served just right: fermented tofu fried to perfection and smothered in sweet and spicy sauce. Found at nearly every night market, stinky tofu is a rite of passage for adventurous eaters. So take a deep breath, embrace the smell, and get ready to enjoy one of Taiwan’s most iconic street foods!

Recommendations: Best Stinky Tofu in Taipei

• Huarong Stinky Tofu (華榮臭豆腐)
  Address: No. 284, Zhongzheng Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 4–10 PM (Closed Monday)

• Binjiang Stinky Tofu (濱江臭豆腐)
  Address: No. 13, Lane 356, Longjiang Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM–9 PM (Closed Monday)

• Good Flavor Stinky Tofu (好味道臭豆腐)
  Address: No. 41, Section 1, Shipai Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 1:30–9 PM (Closed Monday)

Taiwanese Breakfast (台式早餐)

A classic Taiwanese breakfast includes everything from savory egg crepes (蛋餅) filled with vegetables or ham to steamed buns (包子) stuffed with mouthwatering fillings. For those looking for something a bit heartier, rice balls packed with pickled vegetables and fried breadsticks (油條) or soft, flaky clay oven rolls (燒餅) make for a delicious, portable option. Freshly made soy milk is often served with a traditional Taiwanese breakfast. And don’t forget the congee, a comforting rice porridge with toppings like century egg and vegetables that are perfect for a leisurely morning meal.

Taiwanese breakfasts are wildly popular, with spots like Fuhang Soy Milk drawing long lines daily. Get up early and experience the flavors locals have loved for generations!

Recommendations: Best Taiwanese Breakfast in Taipei

• Fuhang Soy Milk (阜杭豆漿)
  Address: 2nd Floor, No. 108, Section 1, Zhongxiao East Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 5:30 AM–12:30 PM (Closed Monday)

• The Whale (餵我早餐)
  Address: No. 26, Section 4, Xinyi Road, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Friday 7 AM–2 PM, Saturday-Sunday, 7:30 PM-2:30 PM

• Miss Qin’s Soy Milk (秦小姐豆漿店)
  Address: No. 7-6, Yanji St, Songshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 5:30 AM–1:30 PM

Taiwanese Deep-fried Chicken (鹽酥雞)

If you’re a fan of fried chicken, then Taiwanese deep-fried chicken is about to become your new obsession! This beloved street snack is chopped into bite-sized pieces, marinated, and deep-fried to golden perfection before being dusted with a flavorful mix of salt, pepper, garlic, and deep-fried basil leaves. And if you like a little heat, don’t forget to ask for extra chili powder!

Taiwan has truly earned a spot in the fried chicken hall of fame, and it’s no surprise that Taiwanese deep-fried chicken is a staple at night markets across the island. While Taiwan is also famous for its giant fried chicken cutlets—like the legendary Hotstar Chicken Cutlet—this crispy, popcorn-style chicken is dangerously addictive.

Recommendations: Best Taiwanese Deep-fried Chicken in Taipei

• Shi Yun Fried Chicken (師園鹽酥雞)
  Address: No. 14, Lane 39, Shida Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 12 PM–12:30 AM

• Hotstar Chicken Cutlet (士林豪大大雞排)
  Address: No. 115, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 3:30 PM–12 AM

• Siansuli (鹹酥李)
  Address: No. 211, Section 2, Jinshan S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Wednesday, 5–11 PM, Friday-Sunday, 5–11:30 PM (Closed Thursday)

Hotpot (火鍋)

Hotpot is a must-try in Taiwan, especially in winter. Influenced by Japanese shabu-shabu and Taiwanese flavors, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or family. Gather around a steaming pot, dipping in fresh ingredients like thinly sliced meat, seafood, tofu, and leafy greens. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, and each person can customize their bowl with DIY sauces, from shacha to soy or raw egg yolk. It’s Taiwan’s ultimate mix of flavors, textures, and good times.

Recommendations: Best Hotpot in Taipei

• Ocha Nabe (茶冉)
  Address: No. 25-3, Lane 107, Section 1, Fuxing S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Friday, 5–11 PM, Saturday-Sunday, 11:30 AM–3:30 PM, 5–11 PM

• Xiang La Spicy Hotpot (嚮辣和牛麻辣鍋)
  Address: No. 131-1, Songjiang Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Friday, 11:30 AM–2 AM, Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM-2 AM

• Ding Wang Spicy Hot Pot (鼎王麻辣鍋)
  Address: 2nd Floor, No. 152, Section 1, Zhonghua Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11:30 AM–2 AM

Gua Bao (割包 / 刈包)

If you’re ready to taste a Taiwanese classic, gua bao is a deliciously unique street snack you won’t want to miss. Known affectionately as the “Taiwanese hamburger,” this tasty treat consists of a soft, pillowy steamed bun filled with braised pork belly, fresh coriander, pickled mustard greens, and a sprinkle of ground peanuts for a sweet, nutty kick.

Gua bao has deep roots in Taiwanese tradition, especially during Weiya, the year-end celebration to honor the earth god. Traditionally filled with pork belly, this handheld delight has become a versatile canvas for creative fillings like fried chicken, fish, or stewed beef. Pair it with a warm Four-Herbal Soup (四神湯) for the full Taiwanese street food experience.

Recommendations: Best Gua Bao in Taipei

• Feng Fu Gua Bao (丰馥刈包)
  Address: 2nd Floor, Store No. 36, No. 76, Section 3, Bade Road, Songshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:30 PM–9 PM (Closed Monday)

• Lan Jia Gua Bao Traditional Taiwanese Snack (藍家割包)
  Address: No. 3, Alley 8, Ln. 316, Section 3, Roosevelt Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11 AM–10 PM (Closed Monday)

• Yuan Fang Guabao (源芳刈包)
  Address: No. 17-2, Huaxi St, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11:30 AM–8 PM (Closed Monday)

Mee Sua / Oyster Vermicelli (蚵仔麵線)

If you’re on the hunt for iconic Taiwanese street food, oyster vermicelli is a dish you’ve got to try! This comforting bowl of thin, silky wheat-flour noodles, known as “mee sua” in Taiwanese, is served in a rich, thick broth, topped with tender bits of pork intestine or fresh, juicy oysters. Many locals love to customize the bowl by adding garlic, chili oil, or a dash of black vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.

Interesting fact: oyster vermicelli was originally considered a “poor man’s meal,” yet today it’s one of Taiwan’s most cherished comfort foods! Can’t wait to taste your very first bowl? Head over to the famous Ay-Chung in Ximending, where you can join the crowd standing in the street, savoring their bowls of mee sua. There’s truly no other place that offers this kind of unique eating experience!

Recommendations: Best Oyster Vermicelli in Taipei

• Ay Chung Flour-Rice Noodle (阿宗麵線)
  Address: No. 8-1, Emei St, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 AM–10:30 PM, Friday-Sunday, 8:30 AM–11 PM

• Chen Ji Intestine & Oyster Taiwanese Vermicelli (陳記專業蚵仔麵線)
  Address: No. 166, Section 3, Heping West Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 6:30 AM–7:30 PM

• A Hui Vermicelli in Shilin Night Market (士林廟口阿輝麵線)
  Address: No. 52, Danan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 3:30 PM–11:30 PM

Braised Snacks (滷味)

Braised snacks, or lu wei, are a quintessential part of Taiwanese street food culture. The dish originated from traditional Chinese cooking, where various ingredients were slow-cooked in a rich soy sauce-based broth to impart flavor. In Taiwan, lu wei has become synonymous with a night market feast, offering an assortment of ingredients like tofu, eggs, seaweed, pork intestines, and more. Each item is slowly simmered in a savory mixture of soy sauce, sugar, star anise, and other spices until the flavors penetrate deeply into the ingredients.

The beauty of lu wei is its versatility. You can pick and choose what you want, making it a personal and interactive experience. The warm, savory taste, combined with the variety of textures, makes this dish perfect for late-night snacking.

Recommendations: Best Braised Snacks in Taipei

• Lao Tian Lu (老天祿)
  Address: No. 55, Section 2, Wuchang St, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 10 AM–10 PM

• A Kuo Lu Wei (阿國滷味)
  Address: No. 759, Section 4, Bade Rd, Songshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 4:30 PM–11:30 PM (Closed Monday)

• Sichuan Specialty Braised Delicacies (四川特色滷味)
  Address: No. 15, Alley 83, Lane 30, Yongji Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 5:30 PM–10 PM (Closed Wednesday)

Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶)

Bubble tea is perhaps Taiwan’s most famous culinary export. Created during the 1980s, bubble tea started as a simple twist on iced milk tea by adding chewy tapioca pearls, commonly called “boba.” The pearls are made from tapioca starch and boiled until they achieve a chewy, almost gummy-like consistency. This simple yet inventive combination became an instant sensation, spreading not just across Taiwan but all over the world.

The classic milk tea remains beloved, but there are now countless varieties, from fruity teas to ones with cheese foam toppings. Many vendors even allow you to adjust sugar and ice levels, customizing each cup to the drinker’s liking. Bubble tea isn’t just a drink, it is a must-try for anyone visiting Taipei!

➔ Complete Guide to Bubble Milk Tea: Top 10 Best Bubble Tea Shops in Taiwan You Must Try

Scallion Pancake (蔥抓餅)

Originally from China, scallion pancakes evolved in Taiwan into a street food favorite, especially at night markets. They are made with a dough that’s rolled out with finely chopped scallions, layered, and then pan-fried until crisp. The result is a flaky, savory pancake with tender layers inside and a deliciously crispy exterior.

Scallion pancakes are incredibly versatile, vendors often give customers the option to add fillings like egg, cheese, ham, or even pork floss. This customization has made them a beloved snack that suits different tastes. They are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack, and their fragrant, rich taste combined with the crisp texture keeps people coming back for more.

Recommendations: Best Scallion Pancake in Taipei

• Old Guo’s Shandong Scallion Pancake (老郭舖山東蔥油餅)
  Address: No. 46, Lane 364, Section 2, Zhonghua Rd, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Saturday, 2 PM–6:30 PM (Closed Friday and Sunday)

• Grandma’s Hand-Grasped Scallion Pancake (阿媽蔥抓餅)
  Address: No. 19, Alley 50, Lane 119, Donghu Rd, Neihu District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Friday, 7–10 AM, 3–8 PM, Saturday and Sunday, 7 AM–5 PM

• Beitou Bomb Scallion Pancake (北投炸彈蔥油餅)
  Address: No. 218, Guangming Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Tuesday, 11:30 AM–7 PM, Wednesday-Sunday, 11:30 AM–9 PM

Tempura (甜不辣)

Taiwanese tempura, or tian bu la, is quite different from the Japanese tempura that many are familiar with. In Taiwan, it is a popular street food made from fish paste mixed with flour, shaped into various forms, and deep-fried until golden brown. The term “甜不辣” literally means “sweet, not spicy,” which describes the taste of the special sauce that is poured over the fried pieces.

This dish is loved for its slightly chewy texture and its flavorful contrast of the crispy fried exterior with the savory, sweet sauce. The Taiwanese version is more akin to fried fish cakes, often mixed with vegetables and served with a side of garlic paste or spicy sauce.

Recommendations: Best Tempura in Taipei

• G-tenpura (吉甜不辣)
  Address: No. 153-9, Yanji St, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11 AM–10 PM

• Solar Energy Tempura (日光能量甜不辣)
  Address: No. 10, Lane 86, Section 2, Xinyi Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11 AM–2 PM, 5–8 PM (Closed Sunday)

• Guodu Tempura (國都甜不辣)
  Address: No. 191-1, Section 2, Nanchang Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11:30 AM–10 PM (Closed Sunday)

Taiwanese Sausage (台灣大香腸)

Taiwanese sausage is different from Western sausages in that it has a sweet, savory flavor and a slightly coarse texture. The origin of Taiwanese sausage can be traced back to Chinese-style cured sausages, but the local version is fresher and grilled on the spot, typically brushed with a glaze of soy sauce and honey.

The sausages are juicy, with a satisfying snap when you bite into them and are often served with slices of raw garlic on the side. The garlic provides a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the sausage, making each bite an exciting burst of flavors.

Recommendations: Best Taiwanese Sausage in Taipei

• Huang’s Sausages (黃家香腸)
  Address: No. 32-3, Quanzhou St, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 1–7 PM (Closed Monday)

• Li’s Black Pork Sausages (李家黑豬肉香腸)
  Address: No. 164, Section 3, Heping West Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City
  Hours: Monday-Sunday, 9 AM–7 PM (Closed Tuesday)

• Lai-San’s Sausages (賴桑香腸)
  Address: No. 18, Section 5, Muzha Rd, Wenshan District, Taipei City
  Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12–2 PM, 5–8:30 PM (Closed Monday and Sunday)

Popular Taipei Night Markets and Must-Try Taiwanese Street Food

Taiwan’s night markets are a feast for the senses and an absolute must-visit for freshly cooked Taiwanese street food. No trip to Taiwan is complete without wandering through these vibrant markets, where you can find everything from sizzling skewers to sweet treats, all served with that signature night market flair.

There are around 18 night markets in Taipei City. For foodies, you can’t miss Shilin, Raohe, Ningxia, and Dihua, all easily accessible by MRT, and offer the authentic Taiwanese flavors you have been craving!

Shilin Night Market (士林夜市)

Shilin Night Market is one of the largest and most popular night markets in Taipei, centered around the Yangming Cinema and Cixian Temple, and is known for its variety of traditional Taiwanese snacks. Visitors come from all over the world to try the “big pancake wrapping small pancake,” Shanghai pan-fried buns, and the famous Shilin sausage. Here, you’ll find the iconic Hotstar Chicken Cutlet, and local favorites stinky tofu, grilled sausages, oyster omelet, and bubble tea.

➔ How to Get to Shilin Night Market by MRT:
Jiantan Station (Exit 1), 7 minutes walking distance to the market.

Raohe Street Night Market (饒河夜市)

Stretching 600 meters long, Raohe Street Night Market is one of the largest night markets in Taipei. The Raohe area, once known as Xikou, was an important transit hub for goods transported between Keelung, Yilan, and Taipei during the Qing Dynasty due to its convenient river access. In 1987, the government moved licensed vendors to Raohe Street and officially established the night market. Must-eats here include black pepper pork bun, mochi (glutinous rice cakes), herbal spare ribs soup, and pork intestine vermicelli.

➔ How to Get to Raohe Night Market by MRT:
Songshan Station (Exit 1), the market is right in front of you.

Ningxia Night Market (寧夏夜市)

Often referred to as “the stomach of Taipei,” Ningxia Night Market offers a wide range of traditional Taiwanese snacks and international dishes, and is best known for its crispy fried taro balls with salted egg yolk filling and lu rou fan. It originated in the Japanese colonial period, where it started as a hub at the Roundabout in what was then called Lower Kweifu Town. The market began to flourish in 1973 when Chongqing North Road was widened, and vendors from the Roundabout were relocated to the sides of Chongqing North Road Section 2. Today, the market remains a foodie’s favorite spot, with well-organized stalls and an old-school vibe that takes you back to the olden days of Taipei.

➔ How to Get to Ningxia Night Market by MRT:
Zhongshan Station (Exit 1), 10 minutes walking distance to the market.
Shuanglian Station (Exit 1), 8 minutes walking distance to the market.

Note: Ningxia Night Market is undergoing pavement renovations from September to November 2024, with only 35 stalls open for business during this period. Please make sure to check ahead before visiting!

Nanjichang Night Market (南機場夜市)

Nanjichang Night Market may not be as famous as Shilin or Raohe, but it’s a less touristy hidden gem among Taipei’s night markets with more affordable prices. The market’s name comes from its history—it used to be near an old airfield, hence “Nanjichang,” meaning “South Airport.” Although small in scale, Nanjichang is home to several Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended stalls, such as Shan Nei Chicken Rice (山內雞肉), Corn Family Grilled Corn (玉米家烤玉米), and Ah Nan Sesame Oil Chicken (阿男麻油雞).

Must-tries here include the liangmian (cold noodles), which are served with a flavorful sesame sauce, ba wan, a savory, chewy meatball made from a translucent dough filled with pork and vegetables, deep-fried chicken wings, and douhua (tofu pudding), a soft, silky treat served with sweet syrup that’s a great way to end your food adventure.

➔ How to Get to Nanjichang Night Market by MRT:
Longshan Temple Station (Exit 3), 16 minutes walking distance to the market.
Xiaonanmen Station (Exit 3), 15 minutes walking distance to the market.

Authentic Taiwanese Dishes You Must Try

If our list of the 15 Best Taiwanese Food can’t satisfy your taste buds, here are even more must-try Taiwanese dishes to discover!

• Pig’s Blood Cake (豬血糕): A unique street food made from sticky rice and pig’s blood, served on a stick and often coated in peanut powder and cilantro.
• Fried Sweet Potato Balls (地瓜球): Light and crispy on the outside, these fried sweet potato balls are chewy and slightly sweet on the inside, making for a delightful snack.
• Chicken Feet (雞爪): Marinated and braised, chicken feet are a popular delicacy that offers a unique texture and flavor, loved by locals.
• Taiwanese Meatballs (肉圓): A chewy, translucent dough filled with savory pork and vegetables, served with a sweet and tangy sauce.
• Taiwanese Spring Roll (潤餅): A fresh wrap filled with a mix of shredded vegetables, peanut powder, and sometimes meat, for a delightful crunch.
• Three Cup Chicken (三杯雞): A dish cooked with equal parts of soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine, with plenty of basil, resulting in tender, aromatic chicken.
• Iron Egg (鐵蛋): A unique snack made by repeatedly stewing and air-drying boiled eggs, giving them a chewy texture and intense flavor.
• Sticky Rice Dumplings (肉粽): Glutinous rice stuffed with savory fillings like pork, peanuts, and mushrooms, wrapped in bamboo leaves, and steamed to perfection.
• Coffin Bread (棺材板): A thick slice of bread hollowed out and filled with creamy stew, similar to a savory bread bowl.

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Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Taipei

Taipei is known not only for its night markets and rich culinary heritage but also for being vegan-friendly. With the growing popularity of plant-based diets, many vegan restaurants have sprung up across the city, offering creative, flavorful dishes that cater to both locals and tourists.

Popular vegetarian restaurants in Taipei

• Plants: A chic vegan restaurant offering plant-based, organic dishes that are gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free, and soy-free, with no refined sugar added. Vegans love this restaurant for its Californian vibe, health-conscious selection of ingredients, and friendly staff.
• Fruitful Food (果然匯): A buffet-style vegan restaurant featuring over a hundred vegetarian dishes made from fresh ingredients. Its selection is so tasty that even non-vegans are raving about it online!
• Minder Vegetarian (明德素食): Known for its Taiwanese-style vegetarian fare, Minder Vegetarian offers affordable, tasty vegan meals using natural and fresh ingredients to handcraft egg-free and alcohol-free vegetarian dishes.

How to find vegetarian/vegan food in Taipei?

For foreigners looking to find vegan restaurants in Taipei, there are a few easy ways to spot them. Many vegan eateries will have the term “素食” (sùshí) on their signs, which means “vegetarian” or “vegan.” Another good tip is to look for the Buddhist symbol, which often indicates vegetarian food. Additionally, using apps like HappyCow or simply asking locals “Are there any vegan restaurants? / 有沒有全素的餐廳?” can help in finding vegan-friendly spots.

Top Taiwanese Desserts and Drinks You Can’t Miss

Does Taiwan have famous desserts beyond bubble tea? Absolutely! Here are some sweet must-try treats that you’re sure to love!

• Tsua bing / Shaved Ice (刨冰): A refreshing treat, shaved ice is often topped with a variety of ingredients like mango, red beans, and condensed milk. It’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
• Taro Balls (芋圓): These chewy, subtly sweet balls made from taro are often served with syrup or as a topping for shaved ice and sweet soups.
• Douhua (豆花): A soft tofu pudding often paired with syrup and a variety of toppings like peanuts, boba, or mung beans.
• Soy milk (豆漿): Served hot or cold, this is a common breakfast drink often paired with Taiwanese dough fritters.
• Aiyu jelly (愛玉冰): A light, refreshing dessert drink made from fig seeds and served with honey and lemon.

Coffee Culture and Cafés in Taipei

With cafés popping up on every corner, Taipei’s coffee scene is buzzing! Whether you’re craving a classic espresso or curious about a creative specialty drink, the city has you covered. Coffee lovers will have no trouble finding endless spots to sip on some seriously good brews.

Some of the most popular cafés in Taipei include:

• Louisa Coffee: One of the largest coffee chains in Taiwan, Louisa Coffee offers affordable yet quality coffee and a comfortable environment for both studying and socializing. Its popularity makes it a reliable choice for a caffeine fix throughout Taipei.
• Cama Coffee: Known for its bright yellow storefronts and on-the-go service, Cama Coffee serves freshly roasted, quality coffee at a reasonable price. It’s a favorite among office workers and students looking for a quick, satisfying cup.
• Komeda’s Coffee: A Japanese import, Komeda’s Coffee offers a unique experience with its spacious seating, hearty breakfast sets, and signature Shiro Noir dessert—a warm Danish pastry topped with soft-serve ice cream.
• Mr. Brown Café: A well-established Taiwanese chain, Mr. Brown Café combines good coffee with a comfortable atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee with a view of the bustling streets.

Cafés in Taipei often double as workspaces for freelancers, making them ideal spots for tourists to relax, recharge, and enjoy a good cup of coffee.

Insider Tips for Eating Out in Taipei

Eating out in Taipei is a true adventure, and knowing a few insider tips can make your culinary journey even better. Here’s what you need to know:

How to Find the Best Local Spots

To find the most authentic eateries, use Google Maps or social media. Search for high-rated places that locals are raving about, and don’t forget to check out popular food blogs. Locals often leave reviews and ratings that can help you discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

How to Avoid Tourist Traps

Stick to places that are bustling with locals rather than tourists. Long lines filled with locals are often a good sign that the food is worth it. Avoid spots with flashy signs aimed at tourists.

Navigating Language Barriers When Ordering Food

Many night market vendors and local restaurants may not have English menus, but pointing at what others are eating or using translation apps can go a long way. Learning a few basic food words in Mandarin can also make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Tipping Culture in Taipei

Tipping is generally not expected in Taiwan. Most restaurants include a 10% service charge in the bill, so additional tipping is unnecessary. Night market stalls do not require tipping either.

Cash is King

Many smaller restaurants and night market stalls only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to carry small bills with you.

Late-Night Dining

Many night markets and restaurants stay open well into the night, so you can satisfy your cravings even after hours.

Mind the Trash

Public trash cans are scarce, so be prepared to carry your trash with you until you find a proper disposal site.

Best Food Apps for Foreigners in Taiwan

Navigating the food scene in Taipei can be challenging for foreigners, but several apps make it easier to explore the city’s culinary delights:

• Google Maps: An essential for finding restaurants and food spots with reviews and ratings in English.
• iFoodie: Taiwan’s leading restaurant review app with over 3 million users. Get real-time insights into popular restaurants and check reviews before ordering from services like Uber Eats or Foodpanda.
• UberEats and Foodpanda: For those days when you’d prefer to eat in, UberEats and Foodpanda deliver from a wide range of Taipei’s best restaurants right to your doorsteps.

➔ See also Best Apps for Foreigners in Taiwan: Essential for Travel, Food Delivery, Dating, Shopping and More

A Warm Welcome Awaits You in Taipei: Home Sweet Home Share House

Taipei’s food culture is a vibrant blend of tradition, innovation, and culinary passion. From world-renowned beef noodle soup to the bustling night markets and trendy cafés, the city offers a rich variety of dining experiences. Now, imagine complementing this culinary adventure with a hassle-free living experience at Home Sweet Home Share House. Offering flexible leases, all-inclusive pricing, and a friendly international community, it’s the perfect base for foodies exploring Taipei. Your new adventure awaits, with a welcoming place to call home.

Book your stay with us today!