Must-Try Foods in Taiwan for a Delicious Culinary Adventure
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
- Visit Night Markets: Don’t miss Shilin, Raohe, and Ningxia night markets for endless food options.
- Portions: Taiwanese dishes are often small, so you can try multiple items in one meal.
- Cash is King: Most food stalls only accept cash, so keep small bills handy.
- Seasonal Fruits: Try exotic fruits like wax apples, custard apples, or lychees depending on the season.
- 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!