Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise. From mouthwatering street food to high-end dining, the country offers endless options that will excite any traveler’s taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of night markets or eager to try local specialties, Taiwan’s dining scene is full of surprises.
Night Markets: The Heart of Taiwanese Food Culture
Night markets are king when it comes to eating in Taiwan. These bustling markets pop up in cities all over the country after dark and are the place to find affordable, exciting food. You can easily have an entire meal by snacking from stall to stall.
Shilin Night Market
Located in Taipei, Shilin Night Market is one of the biggest and most famous night markets. Here, you’ll find popular Taiwanese street foods like “stinky tofu” (fermented tofu with a strong smell but mild flavor), grilled meats, fried chicken, and more. Make sure to try “lu rou fan” (braised pork rice) as well—a simple but comforting dish.
Raohe Night Market
Raohe Night Market, also in Taipei, is where you should go to try the famous “pepper buns” (hújiāobǐng). These buns are baked in a clay oven, stuffed with juicy pork and black pepper, and sprinkled with sesame seeds on top. It’s a must-try.
Must-Try Taiwanese Street Foods
Street food is the backbone of Taiwanese cuisine. With vendors on every corner, it’s easy to dive into the local food scene. Don’t miss these essentials.
Beef Noodle Soup
This hearty dish is a local favorite and considered Taiwan’s national dish. A rich broth, tender beef, and chewy noodles create the perfect comfort meal. You’ll find beef noodle soup at street stalls and restaurants all over the country. Head to Yongkang Beef Noodle in Taipei if you want to try one of the best bowls in town.
Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)
Originally from China, these steamed dumplings with hot broth inside are a must-try when in Taiwan. While Din Tai Fung is the most famous place to try them, many smaller dumpling spots around the country serve equally delicious versions at a cheaper price. Just be careful when you bite into them—the broth inside is piping hot!
Oyster Omelette
This unique dish blends eggs, starch, and fresh oysters into a flavorful, crispy omelette. Most commonly found in night markets, the oyster omelette is served with a sweet and spicy sauce. It’s one of Taiwan’s most beloved snacks, making it a must-try.
Regional Specialties in Taiwan
Taiwan has various regional culinary specialties that highlight its diverse landscape and culture. Venture out of Taipei to experience some of these amazing regional dishes beyond the capital.
Tainan: Beef Soup
Tainan, located in the south, is known for its rich food culture. One must-try dish here is beef soup. Fresh slices of beef are lightly blanched and served in a simple broth. It’s a simple but flavorful dish that’s best enjoyed in the early morning.
Kaohsiung: Milkfish
Kaohsiung is famous for “milkfish,” often served grilled, in soup, or congee. This delicate white fish is loved for its tender, flaky texture. Visit the Liuhe Night Market to find one of the best places to try a steaming bowl of milkfish soup.
Hualien: Mochi
Mochi, a glutinous rice dessert, is very popular in Taiwan, especially in Hualien. These chewy treats are available with sweet fillings like red bean, peanut, or sesame. Many mochi shops here still hand-make their mochi, delivering a traditional flavor and texture that you can’t miss.
Taiwanese Sweets and Desserts
After all the savory snacks and meals, you’ll want to try some of Taiwan’s favorite treats. Taiwan is known for its diverse dessert culture, which offers everything from shaved ice to cakes.
Pineapple Cake
Pineapple cakes are perhaps the most well-known Taiwanese dessert. Made with a buttery crust and filled with a sweet pineapple jam, they’re commonly bought as a souvenir. Pick some up at Chia Te Bakery in Taipei—you won’t regret it.
Shaved Ice with Toppings
Cool off with Taiwan’s famous shaved ice topped with fruits, red bean, taro balls, and condensed milk. It’s refreshing and satisfying, especially in Taiwan’s hot summer weather. Try Ice Monster in Taipei for a classic experience or head to a stall in a night market for a local version.
Bubble Tea
No trip to Taiwan is complete without trying bubble tea, the country’s most famous drink. Often made with milk, tea, and chewy tapioca pearls, bubble tea comes in all kinds of flavors. Head to Chun Shui Tang in Taichung, the origin of this drink, to experience it at its best.
Fine Dining in Taiwan
While the street food scene is the star of the show, Taiwan also has a thriving fine dining culture. The country has been gaining recognition for its Michelin-starred restaurants that play with traditional Taiwanese ingredients and modern techniques.
RAW
RAW, led by chef André Chiang, is a fine dining restaurant in Taipei that highlights Taiwan’s seasonal ingredients. The presentation and flavor combinations are creative and modern. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance, as this place is super popular.
Ding Xian 101
If you want to enjoy high-end seafood while taking in an incredible view, head to Ding Xian 101, located in the iconic Taipei 101 building. The menu features fresh seafood dishes with a Chinese-Taiwanese twist. The panoramic views alone make it worth a visit.
Vegetarian Dining in Taiwan
Taiwan makes it easy for vegetarians to eat well. Thanks to the influence of Buddhism, vegetarian and vegan restaurants are easy to find all over the island.
Plants
If you’re looking to indulge in plant-based food with a modern twist, visit Plants in Taipei. Their menu focuses on organic, whole foods, offering delicious salads, smoothie bowls, and hearty main courses.
Sufood
For a more upscale vegetarian dining experience, Sufood is a popular chain in Taiwan that offers creative, plant-based Taiwanese and Italian-inspired dishes. It’s a solid choice for those craving healthy yet flavorful vegetarian options.
Where to Find the Best Local Eats
If you’re looking for authentic Taiwanese food, skip the tourist hotspots and seek out some of these hidden gems. Local favorites often boast the most authentic dishes, nurtured by generations of chefs.
Fuhang Soy Milk
Head to Fuhang Soy Milk in Taipei for a traditional Taiwanese breakfast of soy milk, egg pancakes, and freshly baked sesame flatbread. The line might be long, but it’s worth the wait.
Lin Dong Fang Beef Noodles
For loyal beef noodle fans, Lin Dong Fang in Taipei should be top of your list. Their beef broth is rich and deep in flavor, with perfectly cooked noodles. This place is a classic spot that locals swear by.
No. 1 Goose Lady
If you are in Tainan, find No. 1 Goose Lady, a humble food stall that serves up savory slices of goose meat paired with rice or noodles. It’s a comforting dish that locals often seek out for lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Taiwan is a foodie’s dream destination. With a mix of vibrant night markets, traditional dishes, and upscale restaurants, there’s no shortage of great meals to be had. Whether you’re into street food or looking for fine dining, Taiwan’s culinary scene is sure to leave you satisfied and craving more. Don’t be afraid to venture out and experiment—it’s hard to go wrong here. Just dig in!
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