Taiwan is an island of food lovers where snacking is the national pastime, regardless of the time of day or night. Known as a melting pot, Taiwan’s incredible cuisine draws upon a multitude of influences, including Chinese Fujian, Cantonese, and Hakka flavors, as well as indigenous and even Japanese and American elements.
You can enjoy the best food in Taiwan without heading to upscale restaurants; instead, you will find some of the most profound dining experiences on the streets, sampling from mom-and-pop stalls that excel at a select few small dishes known as xiao chi (small eats). Here’s a food guide to get you started on traditional cuisine in Taiwan.
Slurp Up a Steaming Bowl of Beef Noodle Soup
Taiwanese beef noodle soup (台湾牛肉面) combines braised beef with chewy wheat noodles in a rich broth, accented by a hint of Sichuan spice and tart pickled mustard greens. This comforting dish was created by veterans of China’s civil war who sought a taste of home after moving to Taiwan. Today, niurou mian has become the national dish and even hosts its own festival, playing a role in changing perceptions surrounding beef consumption on the island.
Get Your Boba Fix
Boba cha or bubble tea is a beverage phenomenon that Taiwan has shared with the world. This delightful drink typically features a mix of tea, milk, ice, and chewy tapioca pearls, but today’s offerings also include blended fruits and other creative twists. The hallmark of all boba variations is a shake before serving and a wide straw to enjoy the sweet, syrupy tapioca treats alongside the refreshing tea.
Explore the Night Markets
Nighttime snacking in Taiwan is a delightful adventure! At night markets dotted throughout the island, family-run stalls serve a variety of tantalizing foods under the glow of lights. You can find savory soups, delicious sausages, grilled squid skewers, sweet treats, and the infamous stinky tofu. Iconic snacks such as oyster omelets and fried chicken tossed with fresh basil are must-tries for any food adventurer.
Taste the Renowned Soup Dumplings
Din Tai Fung, famed for its hand-pleated xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), has captured the hearts of many since its inception in 1972. The original branch on Xinyi Road remains a culinary destination, drawing lines of eager attendees. The charm of these dumplings lies in their delicate dough encasing a savory soup, and their popularity has led to a global franchise, with numerous outlets serving this iconic Taiwanese delicacy.
Discover Indigenous Cuisine
While predominantly Han Chinese, Taiwan is home to around half a million indigenous peoples who offer a distinct culinary experience shaped by their surroundings. Explore local dishes that include wild boar, millet wine, and various aboriginal ingredients that epitomize the island’s cultural heritage.
Relish the Iconic Scallion Pancake
When crafted perfectly, Taiwan’s scallion pancakes (蔥油餅; congyoubing) are divine—a balance of crispness and chewiness that is satisfying and affordable. Often sold by vendors with long queues, the age of the cook can also signal the quality of the food, so be sure to join the line!
Enjoy a Hakka-Themed Feast
The Hakka people, making up a significant portion of Taiwan’s population, present a rich culinary tradition filled with savory and robust flavors, often featuring pork, tofu, and soy sauce. The Meinong district is an excellent locality to savor authentic Hakka dishes such as stuffed tofu and lei cha (ground tea).
Savor Unforgettable Roast Chicken
Weng yao ji (earthen kiln chicken) represents a true road trip indulgence. Chicken marinated and roasted in traditional clay ovens provides flavorful, juicy meat and crispy skin. Thumbs Up Chicken is a must-visit for this iconic dish, where the lively atmosphere complements the irresistible food.
Try the Unique Ice-Cream Spring Roll
This playful hybrid of dessert features a crepe filled with scoops of fruit ice cream, crushed peanut candy, and fresh cilantro, delivering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Known as run bing (潤餅), this sweet treat is a popular street food frequently enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Given Taiwan’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, many towns are equipped with vegetarian and vegan eateries that serve wholesome dishes, often featuring mock meats. When you see the large swastika emblem hanging outside a restaurant, you can be assured of authentic vegetarian cuisine.
