tomtrail.com
cover:29

Must-Try Foods in Taiwan for a Delicious Culinary Adventure

Discover Taiwan's best dishes, from street food staples to iconic delicacies. A guide for foodies exploring the flavors of Taiwan!

1. Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵)


🍜 Why Try: Taiwan’s national dish

  • Beef noodle soup is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, savory broth.
  • Where to Try:
    • Yong Kang Beef Noodles in Taipei.
    • Local street vendors or night markets.

💡 Tip: Add a splash of black vinegar or chili oil for an extra kick.




2. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)


🥟 Why Try: A steamed delicacy with a burst of flavor

  • These delicate dumplings are filled with juicy pork and a savory broth, making them a must-try in Taiwan.
  • Where to Try:
    • Din Tai Fung, an internationally acclaimed chain originating in Taipei.
    • Local dim sum restaurants.

💡 Tip: Use the provided ginger and black vinegar sauce for the perfect bite.




3. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)


🧄 Why Try: Taiwan’s most polarizing street food

  • Stinky tofu is fermented tofu that’s deep-fried and served with pickled vegetables and chili sauce. Despite its strong aroma, the flavor is surprisingly mild.
  • Where to Try:
    • Shilin Night Market in Taipei.
    • Raohe Night Market.

💡 Tip: Try it fried for a beginner-friendly introduction to this iconic snack.




4. Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶)


🥤 Why Try: Taiwan’s most famous drink

  • Invented in Taiwan, bubble tea is a sweet drink featuring chewy tapioca pearls, milk tea, and various flavors.
  • Where to Try:
    • Chun Shui Tang in Taichung, the birthplace of bubble tea.
    • Popular chains like Tiger Sugar or Coco.

💡 Tip: Customize your drink with different sugar and ice levels.




5. Pineapple Cake (鳳梨酥)


🍍 Why Try: A sweet souvenir from Taiwan

  • Pineapple cakes are buttery pastries filled with a tangy-sweet pineapple jam, perfect as a snack or gift.
  • Where to Try:
    • Chia Te Bakery in Taipei.
    • Vigor Kobo, known for its premium versions.

💡 Tip: Pair with Taiwanese tea for a delightful treat.




6. Braised Pork Rice (滷肉飯)


🍚 Why Try: A comfort food classic

  • Braised pork rice is a simple yet delicious dish featuring slow-cooked pork belly served over steamed rice.
  • Where to Try:
    • Jin Feng Lu Rou Fan in Taipei.
    • Local eateries across Taiwan.

💡 Tip: Add a soft-boiled egg for an authentic experience.




7. Gua Bao (Taiwanese Hamburger)


🍔 Why Try: A street food favorite

  • Gua Bao is a fluffy steamed bun filled with braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and crushed peanuts.
  • Where to Try:
    • Lan Jia Gua Bao in Taipei.
    • Night markets and food stalls.

💡 Tip: Look for vendors that use fresh buns for the best flavor.




8. Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎)


🍳 Why Try: A savory street food delight

  • Made with fresh oysters, eggs, and sweet potato starch, the oyster omelette is crispy yet chewy, topped with a tangy sauce.
  • Where to Try:
    • Ningxia Night Market in Taipei.
    • Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung.

💡 Tip: Enjoy it fresh off the griddle for the best texture.




9. Shaved Ice (刨冰)


🍧 Why Try: A refreshing dessert for hot days

  • Taiwanese shaved ice features finely shaved ice topped with fruits, syrups, and sometimes condensed milk. Mango shaved ice is a popular choice.
  • Where to Try:
    • Ice Monster in Taipei.
    • Smoothie House near Yongkang Street.

💡 Tip: Share with friends—it’s a generous portion!




10. Taiwanese Sausage (香腸)


🌭 Why Try: A smoky and sweet snack

  • Taiwanese sausage is slightly sweet and served on skewers or wrapped in sticky rice. It's a staple street food snack.
  • Where to Try:
    • Raohe Night Market in Taipei.
    • Local food stalls.

💡 Tip: Pair it with garlic cloves for an authentic Taiwanese experience.




Pro Tips for Foodies in Taiwan

  1. Visit Night Markets: Don’t miss Shilin, Raohe, and Ningxia night markets for endless food options.
  2. Portions: Taiwanese dishes are often small, so you can try multiple items in one meal.
  3. Cash is King: Most food stalls only accept cash, so keep small bills handy.
  4. Seasonal Fruits: Try exotic fruits like wax apples, custard apples, or lychees depending on the season.
  5. Drink Tea: Taiwan is famous for its oolong tea—visit a traditional tea house for a cultural experience.

Taiwan’s culinary scene is as diverse as its culture, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. Whether you're a street food enthusiast or a dessert lover, these iconic dishes will leave you craving more!