Taipei’s vibrant night markets are legendary for their mouthwatering snacks. Start with oyster omelettes (蚵仔煎) at Ningxia Night Market—crispy edges, gooey center, and topped with sweet sauce. Pepper buns (胡椒餅) from Shilin Night Market offer flaky pastry filled with juicy pork and spices. Don’t miss beefy noodles (牛肉麵) at Hua Xi Street; locals swear by the rich broth simmered for hours. For something crunchy, try stinky tofu (臭豆腐)—deep-fried and slathered in sauce. Pro tip: Pair it with bubble tea from nearby stalls for just NT$30!
What are the iconic breakfast options in Taipei?
Taipei mornings start with everlasting soy milk (永和豆漿). Visit Fuzhou Souy Milk in Zhongzheng District for silky doujiang paired with oily fritters. Taiwanese egg pancakes (蛋餅) are a must—try the carbonara version with bacon and cheese. For dumpling lovers, Din Tai Fung’s xiaolongbao (小籠包) in Xinyi District is worth the hype. Want something sweet? Tai Gin Sang’s taro-filled buns (芋頭包) have been delighting locals since 1960.
Which desserts should I try after a meal?
Taipei’s sweet tooth is satisfied at Mango Cha Cha (芒果牛奶冰) spots like Ice Monster in Da’an District. Fresh mango, shaved ice, and creamy milk sauce create a tropical dream. For traditional treats, Moon Cake Shop in Wuchang Street offers pineapple cakes (鳳梨酥) with crumbly pastry and tangy filling. Adventurous eaters should try grass jelly (仙草) drinks—cold and herbaceous, perfect for hot days.
Where can I find high-end Taiwanese cuisine?
For Michelin-starred dining, head to Yu Ying Long in Zhongxiao East Road for refined Hakka dishes like braised pork over rice. L’ATELIER de Joël Robuchon in Elephant Mountain offers modern French-Taiwanese fusion. Want luxury without breaking the bank? MiaCucina in Xinyi serves inventive Italian-Taiwanese plates (think truffle oyster omelette) with a view. Reservations recommended!
How do I avoid food culture faux pas in Taipei?
Taiwanese etiquette is relaxed but has quirks. Always say “thank you” (謝謝) after transactions. Sharing food is common—order several dishes for the table. At night markets, don’t hesitate to ask vendors for recommendations. And while tipping isn’t expected, rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated. Pro tip: Carry cash—some markets don’t accept cards!
Top 5 Must-Eat Dishes in Taipei
| Dish | Best Spot | Price (≈USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Noodles | Hua Xi Street Beef Noodles | $5 |
| Xiaolongbao | Din Tai Fung | $12 |
| Stinky Tofu | Ningxia Night Market Stall | $3 |
| Taro Ball Frozen | Ice Monster | $8 |
| Pepper Bun | Shilin Night Market | $2 |
Explore Taipei’s flavors with confidence—and let Deep China Travel guide you to hidden gems beyond the tourist crowds!