If you are planning a trip to Taiwan, you have probably already heard that it is one of the best food destinations in the world. Taiwanese cuisine is a unique reflection of the island’s history, shaped by centuries of Chinese influence, Japanese colonial heritage, and indigenous traditions. The result is a diverse food culture that combines the best of many culinary worlds.
Taiwan is a true paradise for food lovers, offering an incredible variety of experiences beyond just famous dishes. The island is home to one of the highest concentrations of night markets in the world, where street food is not simply a tourist attraction but an essential part of everyday Taiwanese culture. From local snacks to regional specialties, night markets are where many Taiwanese people gather after work to eat, socialize, and enjoy the evening.
Taiwan also has one of the strongest breakfast cultures in the world. Unlike many countries where breakfast is often a quick meal at home, Taiwanese breakfast shops open as early as 5:00 AM, serving freshly made dishes such as soy milk, dan bing (egg pancakes), fan tuan (rice rolls), and shao bing you tiao (sesame flatbread with fried dough).
Beyond its famous street food, Taiwan has also developed an impressive fine dining scene. Despite its relatively small size, the island has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-recognized restaurants in the world, ranging from affordable Bib Gourmand eateries to world-class Michelin-starred restaurants.
Taiwan is also one of the most vegetarian-friendly destinations in Asia. Around 10–15% of the population regularly follows a vegetarian diet, largely influenced by Buddhist traditions. As a result, vegetarian restaurants, buffet-style eateries, and plant-based options are widely available throughout the country.
From bustling night markets and traditional breakfast shops to Michelin restaurants and vegetarian cuisine, Taiwan offers one of the most diverse and exciting food cultures in Asia. For travelers looking for an unforgettable culinary experience, Taiwan is truly a hidden food gem.
In this guide, we will focus mainly on Taiwanese street food by city, with recommendations of the best places to try each specialty. Whether you are exploring night markets, local food streets, or small hidden restaurants, we will share the must-try dishes and where to find them.
I have also included some honorable mentions and extra food stops that are not necessarily street food, but are specific establishments that we absolutely fell in love with during our trip. These places might not fit perfectly into the street food category, but they are definitely worth adding to your Taiwan food itinerary.
Taipei – Best Street Food & Night Markets
As the capital of Taiwan, Taipei is the best place to discover Taiwanese food culture. With its mix of traditional Taiwanese cuisine, modern restaurants, and some of the most famous night markets in the country, Taipei offers one of the widest varieties of food experiences in Taiwan. The city offers the widest variety of local dishes, from traditional breakfast favorites like Dan Bing, Shao Bing You Tiao, Fan Tuan, and soy milk to famous drinks like Taiwanese bubble tea.
With its mix of traditional Taiwanese cuisine, modern restaurants, and some of the most famous night markets in the country, Taipei offers one of the widest varieties of food experiences in Taiwan.
Check out Where to Stay in Taipei: Best Neighbourhoods & Hotels (2026) and discover what neighbourhood is best for foodies! 🍲
Must-try foods in Taipei
Shao Bing You Tiao (燒餅油條) – Sesame Flatbread with Fried Dough
Often considered one of the most iconic Taiwanese breakfast combinations, Shao Bing You Tiao combines a crispy fried dough stick with a flaky sesame flatbread. The contrast between the crunchy You Tiao and the soft, layered Shao Bing makes it a classic Taiwanese morning meal. If you have been in Singapour, you will recognize the famous Youtiao with a fresh cup of Soy Milk.
Pair it with a cup of fresh soy milk for the complete traditional breakfast experience.
Where to try it:
🌟 Fu Hang Soy Milk
🍙 Fan Tuan (飯糰) – Taiwanese Rice Roll
Fan Tuan is another Taiwanese breakfast staple made with sticky rice wrapped around a variety of fillings. Common ingredients include You Tiao, pork floss (the best one in my opinion!), pickled vegetables, egg, and preserved radish.
It is a filling and affordable option, making it popular among locals looking for a quick breakfast before work or school.
Where to try it:
🌟 Liu Mama Fantuan
🌟 Sihai Soy Milk
🌟上順興香Q飯團
🥛 Soy Milk and Taiwanese Breakfast Drinks
Taiwanese soy milk (豆漿) is very different from the soy milk commonly found in Western supermarkets. Freshly made every morning, it has a richer flavor with a slightly roasted or smoky taste, and you can enjoy it either sweetened or unsweetened.
It is usually served hot or cold, and we highly recommend trying both versions to discover your favorite. Personally, my favorite combination is sweetened cold or warm soy milk paired with a crispy You Tiao (油條) dipped inside — a classic Taiwanese breakfast experience that you cannot miss.
Where to try it:
🌟 Qingdao Soy Milk (青島豆漿店)
🌟 Ding Yuan Soy Milk 鼎元豆漿
🧋 Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶)
No trip to Taiwan would be complete without trying the drink that made Taiwan famous worldwide: bubble tea. Originating in Taiwan during the 1980s, bubble tea has become one of the island’s most recognizable exports.
While you can find bubble tea shops everywhere, Taipei is a great place to explore different variations, from traditional milk tea with tapioca pearls to modern creations with unique toppings. You can find flavors from original tea to brown sugar and cream bubble tea. If you have never tried it, we recommend to order a classic pearl milk tea (珍珠奶茶) with normal sugar and ice or a brown suggar milk tea.
Where to try it:
🌟 Xin Fu Tang for their Brown Sugar Bubble Milk
🌟John’s Tea Company (約翰紅茶公司) for their fresh milk black tea
🌟Nap Tea Taipei Ningxia 再睡5分鐘 – 台北寧夏店 – best foam milk bubble tea, also oatmilk options!
Where to eat:
Shilin Night Market (士林夜市)
One of Taiwan’s most famous night markets, Shilin Night Market is a must-visit for first-time travelers. Although it is very popular with tourists, it remains one of the best places to experience Taipei’s night market atmosphere and try a wide variety of Taiwanese street food.
Popular foods to try include fried chicken cutlets, oyster omelets, grilled skewers, and traditional desserts.
Raohe Street Night Market (饒河街觀光夜市)
Raohe Night Market is one of Taipei’s oldest and most famous night markets. It is smaller and easier to explore than Shilin, but packed with excellent food stalls.
Some highlights include the famous Michelin Bib pepper buns (胡椒餅) (look for Fuzhou Black Pepper Bun at the exit of Raohe Market), grilled seafood, traditional snacks, sweet potato balls and many local favorites.
🍜 Yongkang Street (永康街)
Located near Dongmen Station, Yongkang Street is one of Taipei’s best food streets. Unlike traditional night markets, this area focuses more on restaurants, cafés, and famous Taiwanese dishes.
It is a great place to try local specialties such as beef noodles, mango shaved ice, and other Taiwanese classics while exploring one of Taipei’s most charming neighborhoods.
Honorable mentions
From early morning breakfast shops to lively night markets, Taipei offers one of the best introductions to Taiwanese cuisine. If you only have a few days in Taiwan, the capital city is the perfect place to experience the island’s incredible food culture.
🌟 Crispy Milk Donuts – 一脆鮮奶脆皮甜甜圈總店
🌟Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake 雄記蔥抓餅- Michelin Bib
🌟Wang’s Broth Braised Pork Rice -小王煮瓜. – Michelin Recommended
🌟Yu Pin Yuan Iced and Hot Tangyuan – Sweet rice ball dumplings – Michelin Recommended
Tainan – Traditional Taiwanese Food Capital
As the oldest city in Taiwan, Tainan is often considered the food capital of the island. With centuries of history and a strong traditional culture, the city is known for preserving some of the most authentic Taiwanese flavors. From historic food streets to small local eateries, Tainan is the perfect place to discover traditional dishes that represent the roots of Taiwanese cuisine.
Must-Try Foods in Tainan
Danzai Noodles (擔仔麵)
Danzai noodles are one of Tainan’s most iconic dishes and a must-try when visiting the city. This traditional noodle dish features thin noodles served in a flavorful shrimp-based broth, often topped with minced pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs.
Originally created by fishermen, Danzai noodles have become a symbol of Tainan’s culinary heritage and are a great introduction to the city’s traditional flavors.
Where to try it:
🌟Small Park Danzai Noodles – 小公園擔仔麵
🌟Du Hsiao Yueh – Tainan Danzai Noodles – 度小月擔仔麵 台南老店
Shrimp Rolls (蝦捲)
Tainan shrimp rolls are another local specialty with strong roots in the city’s seafood traditions. Fresh shrimp is wrapped in a thin pastry layer and fried until golden and crispy.
Often served with pickled vegetables and a sweet dipping sauce, this is a classic Tainan snack that represents the city’s love for seafood.
Where to try it:
🌟Chou’s Shrimp Rolls – 周氏蝦捲-台南安平總店
Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎)
Oyster omelette is one of Taiwan’s most famous street foods, and Tainan is one of the best places to try it. Made with fresh oysters, eggs, vegetables, and a chewy starch-based batter, it is usually topped with a sweet and savory sauce.
Tainan’s coastal location means the seafood is especially fresh, making the city’s version of this classic Taiwanese dish even more special. Just make sure you get them from a well reviewed place, we have know a few people (including locals) who got sick eating from less known places.
Where to try it:
🌟 王氏魚皮
🌟水仙宮三兄弟魚湯店
Beef Soup (牛肉湯)
Tainan is famous for its fresh beef soup, a dish that is unique compared to other Taiwanese cities. Unlike many beef soups that use slow-cooked meat, Tainan beef soup is made with thin slices of fresh beef cooked instantly by pouring hot broth over them.
Many local shops open early in the morning, making beef soup a popular Taiwanese breakfast choice and one of the best ways to start your day in Tainan. Tainan is truly the best city to get it. While it would be good all over Taiwan, Tainan’s version is just a tad bit sweeter and more savory.
Where to try it:
🌟豪牛牛肉湯
🌟文章牛肉湯 安平總店
Where to Eat in Tainan
Tainan Old Town Food Streets
The best way to experience Tainan’s food culture is by exploring its historic neighborhoods and old town food streets. Areas around Chihkan Tower, Yongfu Road, and Guohua Street are filled with traditional restaurants, snack shops, and hidden local gems.
Take your time walking around and trying different dishes — Tainan is a city where some of the best food experiences come from small family-run establishments.
Local Breakfast Shops
Tainan’s breakfast culture is just as impressive as Taipei’s, with many local shops opening early in the morning. From beef soup and traditional noodles to Taiwanese breakfast classics, these small restaurants offer an authentic glimpse into everyday life in Tainan.
For food lovers, Tainan is arguably one of the best cities in Taiwan to experience the island’s traditional cuisine and culinary history.
Taichung – Night Market & Snack City
Located in central Taiwan, Taichung is one of the best cities to experience Taiwan’s modern food scene and vibrant night market culture. The city is famous for being home to Fengjia Night Market, one of the largest and most popular night markets in Taiwan, offering endless street food options, snacks, and local specialties.
While Taichung has a more modern atmosphere compared to cities like Tainan, it has played an important role in Taiwan’s food culture, especially as the birthplace of bubble tea. From oversized fried chicken to creative street snacks, Taichung is a paradise for travelers looking to explore Taiwan’s famous night market scene.
Must-Try Foods in Taichung
XXL Fried Chicken (大雞排) – Taiwan’s Famous Giant Chicken Cutlet
One of the most iconic night market foods in Taiwan is the XXL fried chicken cutlet, and Taichung is one of the best places to try this popular street food. These oversized chicken fillets are seasoned, coated, and fried until crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
Usually served with different seasoning options such as salt and pepper, spicy, or plum powder, this massive snack is a must-try when exploring Taichung’s night markets.
Where to try it:
🌟Fengjia Night Market
Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)
Stinky tofu is one of Taiwan’s most unique and unforgettable dishes. Despite its strong smell, the fermented tofu has a crispy exterior and soft interior, traditionnally served with pickled vegetables (usually cabbage and carrots) and chili sauce. You can also have many different type of toppings and size, from small cube variety to big chunk, with huge mound of crab roe.
While we put stinky tofu under Taichung, as this is where we have tried it for the first time, you can pretty much try it (and smell it!) all around Taiwan. Other known places to try it is at Shenkeng Old Street, a district in New Taipei City, considered the tofu capital of Taiwan.
Where to try it:
🌟Fengjia Night Market for their huge mound of crab roe topping
🌟Yi Zhong Street Night Market for their tradditionnal handmade stinky tofu
Sun Cakes (太陽餅)
Sun cakes (太陽餅) are one of Taichung’s most famous food specialties and a must-try snack when visiting the city. Despite the name, sun cakes are not actually cakes, but a flaky pastry made with multiple thin layers and filled with a sweet maltose syrup.
This flaky pastry is filled with sweet maltose syrup and has been a symbol of Taichung’s food culture for over a century. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a gift to bring home, a box of freshly baked sun cakes is a must-buy when visiting the city.
Where to try it:
🌟如邑堂太陽餅
🌟如邑堂餅家
🌟No.23 Sun Cake Bakery – 23號太陽餅店
Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶) – The Birthplace of Taiwan’s Famous Drink
Taichung is widely recognized as the birthplace of bubble tea, one of Taiwan’s most famous creations that has become popular worldwide. The original concept of combining milk tea with chewy tapioca pearls started here, making Taichung a must-visit destination for bubble tea lovers.
While we have included Bubble tea in Taipei’s section, as we have tried many memorable ones, trying bubble tea in its origin city adds a special touch to your food journey.
Where to try it:
🌟Chun Shui Tang Siwei Main Shop – birth place of bubble tea
Where to Eat in Taichung
Fengjia Night Market (逢甲夜市)
No Taichung food guide would be complete without mentioning Fengjia Night Market, one of Taiwan’s largest and most famous night markets. Located near Feng Chia University, this huge market combines traditional Taiwanese street food with modern snacks and creative dishes.
The best way to experience Fengjia Night Market is to walk around, try several small portions, and discover your own favorites among the hundreds of stalls.
Honorable mentions
- MINIMAL – The only ice cream shop in the world to have a Michelin star
- Kong Ye Vegetarian Noodles – Vegetarian noodles, my life has been changed since I have tried those noodles
Kaohsiung – Seafood & Southern Street Food
Located in southern Taiwan, Kaohsiung is a coastal city famous for its fresh seafood, relaxed atmosphere, and authentic street food scene. Compared to Taipei, Kaohsiung feels less crowded and less touristy, making it a great place to discover local Taiwanese flavors at a slower pace.
Thanks to its location by the ocean, Kaohsiung is known for its fresh seafood dishes, night markets, and unique southern Taiwanese specialties. From grilled seafood to refreshing drinks, Kaohsiung offers a different side of Taiwan’s food culture.
Must-Try Foods in Kaohsiung
Seafood Skewers (海鮮串燒)
As a coastal city, Kaohsiung is one of the best places in Taiwan to enjoy fresh seafood. At local night markets, you can find a wide variety of seafood skewers, including shrimp, squid, fish, and shellfish grilled over charcoal.
Simple seasoning allows the freshness of the seafood to shine, making this a must-try street food when visiting southern Taiwan.
Where to try it:
🌟Liuhe Night Market – We recommand it more for the seafood skewers
🌟Ruifeng Night Market
Papaya Milk (木瓜牛奶)
Papaya milk is one of Kaohsiung’s most famous drinks and a perfect choice for Taiwan’s hot southern weather. Made with fresh papaya, milk, and ice, this creamy and refreshing drink has become a local favorite.
It is especially popular at night markets and is the perfect companion while exploring Kaohsiung’s street food scene. While I personnally don’t really enjoy papaya, i was pleasently surprise by papaya milk. It’s really refreshing and creamy, and more mild than regular papaya. So if your like me and don’t like papaya, I still recommand that you try it or share it with someone!
Where to try it:
🌟Zheng Lao Pai Papaya Milk – 鄭老牌木瓜牛奶
Duck Rice (鴨肉飯) – A Southern Taiwan Comfort Food
Duck rice (鴨肉飯) is one of the most popular comfort foods in southern Taiwan and a must-try when visiting Kaohsiung. Unlike the more common pork-based rice dishes found across Taiwan, duck rice features tender slices of duck served over rice with savory duck sauce, often accompanied by vegetables, soup, or other duck-based dishes.
I really loved the comforting feeling of this dish. It honestly felt like a warm hug, similar to a traditional Western chicken soup, but with even more depth and flavor. The combination of tender meat, savory broth, and simple ingredients makes it the perfect example of Taiwanese comfort food.
Where to try it:
🌟Hou Chi Duck Rice – Michelin Bib
🌟Duck Zhen – 鴨肉珍 (總店)
Grilled Squid (烤魷魚)
Grilled squid is one of the most popular seafood snacks found in Taiwanese night markets. The squid is usually grilled until tender and coated with a savory sauce, creating a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.
Every time we tried it, the texture was perfect — slightly crispy and smoky on the outside, while remaining tender and slightly chewy on the inside without becoming tough or rubbery.
Where to try it:
🌟Liuhe Night Market
Where to Eat in Kaohsiung
Liuhe Night Market (六合夜市)
Located in central Kaohsiung, Liuhe Night Market is one of the city’s most famous food destinations. This pedestrian-friendly night market is known for seafood, local snacks, and traditional Taiwanese dishes.
It is a great introduction to Kaohsiung’s food culture, especially for first-time visitors.
Ruifeng Night Market (瑞豐夜市)
For a more local atmosphere, Ruifeng Night Market is one of the best places to experience Kaohsiung’s street food scene. Popular among locals and students, this lively market offers a huge variety of Taiwanese snacks, grilled foods, desserts, and creative street food.
With its fresh seafood, famous drinks, and vibrant night markets, Kaohsiung is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the flavors of southern Taiwan.
6. Hualien & East Coast – Local & Handmade Snacks
Located on Taiwan’s scenic east coast, Hualien offers a completely different food experience compared to the island’s major cities. Known for its mountains, coastline, and indigenous culture, Hualien has a more relaxed atmosphere with a strong focus on traditional recipes, handmade snacks, and local ingredients.
The food scene in Hualien reflects the area’s unique cultural mix, combining Taiwanese traditions with influences from the indigenous communities that have lived in the region for generations. From handmade mochi to fresh local produce, Hualien is the perfect place to discover a more authentic and slower-paced side of Taiwanese cuisine.
Must-Try Foods in Hualien
Peanut Mochi (花生麻糬)
Peanut mochi is one of Hualien’s most famous local specialties and a must-try when visiting Taiwan’s east coast. This traditional dessert is made with soft and chewy glutinous rice dough filled or coated with crushed peanuts and sugar.
Unlike mass-produced versions, many Hualien shops still make their mochi by hand, creating a fresh and delicate texture. It is the perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the city or as a souvenir to bring home. It was quite different from the typical Japanese mochi in both flavor and texture. The peanut crumbs (sometimes also added on the outside) give it a unique combination of crunchiness and chewiness, rather than the soft and paste-like texture you might expect. It was honestly the best mochi I have ever tried!
Where to try it:
🌟Tzen’s Magi Story House Store 曾記麻糬 故事館門市
Grilled Indigenous Meats – Flavors from Taiwan’s Indigenous Culture
The east coast is home to many indigenous communities, and their traditional cuisine adds a unique element to Hualien’s food scene. Grilled meats are often prepared simply over fire, highlighting the quality of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Popular options include grilled pork, wild boar, and other locally sourced meats, often seasoned with traditional herbs and spices unique to Taiwan’s indigenous cuisine.
During our visit, we tried a traditional knife-cut noodle dish (刀削麵) with wild boar stew, and it was a memorable experience. Knife-cut noodles are a traditional Chinese noodle style, known for their thick, uneven shape and chewy texture. The rich and savory broth paired perfectly with the hearty wild boar, creating a comforting and unique dish. The noodles were thick and satisfying, while the wild boar had a robust flavor unlike regular pork. It was a little challenging to eat with chopsticks, but the experience was absolutely worth it!
Where to try it:
🌟達路鞍原住民風味餐廳 花蓮在地美食餐廳 阿美族 -吉安原住民餐廳|風味餐廳|特色餐廳|聚餐美食|熱門餐廳|必吃美食|人氣餐廳|原住民美食｜車聚｜烤肉｜
Where to Eat in Hualien
Hualien Night Markets and Local Food Streets
While Hualien does not have night markets as large as Taipei or Kaohsiung, its smaller local markets offer a more authentic experience. They are great places to try handmade snacks, grilled foods, and regional specialties.
Family-Run Local Shops
Some of the best food experiences in Hualien come from small family-owned restaurants and traditional snack shops. Take your time exploring the city and don’t hesitate to try places filled with locals.
With its indigenous influences, handmade specialties, and relaxed atmosphere, Hualien is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience a more traditional and authentic side of Taiwanese food culture.
Signature Taiwanese Street Snacks (All Cities)
Dan Bing (蛋餅) – Taiwanese Egg Pancake
Dan Bing is one of the most popular Taiwanese breakfast dishes and a must-try when visiting Taipei. This simple but delicious dish consists of a thin, chewy pancake wrapped around a fried egg, often with additional fillings such as cheese, bacon, tuna, or vegetables.
Found in almost every traditional Taiwanese breakfast shop, Dan Bing is the perfect introduction to Taiwan’s famous breakfast culture. We wouldn’t recommend one specific place because the best way to experience it is simply to wake up early and try one for yourself!
Each breakfast shop has its own version: some are softer and chewier, while others are crispier and more fried. They are usually served with a small packet of soy sauce or spicy sauce to add extra flavor. During our trip, we tried several varieties, including tuna, cheese, pork, and scallion, and every single one was absolutely delicious.
Peanut Ice Cream Roll (花生冰淇淋潤餅) – A Unique Taiwanese Dessert
The peanut ice cream roll is one of Taiwan’s most unique street food desserts. It combines shaved peanut brittle, fresh cilantro (trust us! But if you have the special soap genes, you can ask them to have it without), and scoops of ice cream wrapped inside a thin, chewy spring roll-style wrapper.
The combination of sweet, salty, creamy, and slightly herbal flavors makes it a surprisingly delicious dessert that represents Taiwan’s creative approach to food. Personnally, I have tried different itiration all around Taiwan as I absolutely love this. My favourite was at Juifen.
Radish Cake (蘿蔔糕) – Traditional Taiwanese Comfort Food
Radish cake is a classic Taiwanese dish made from shredded daikon radish, rice flour, and additional ingredients such as dried shrimp or mushrooms. It is usually pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside. Its crisoy on the outside and just a tad chewy on the inside. It has a very mild taste, unlike real raddish, and it is really good with a bit of sweet and salty sauce or with chilly sauce.
Commonly enjoyed as part of a traditional Taiwanese breakfast or dim sum-style meal, radish cake is a must-try for anyone interested in local cuisine. We wouldn’t recommand a specific place, just grab it when you grab it at the same time that you grab your Dan Bing in the morning.
Shaved Ice Desserts (刨冰) – The Perfect Taiwanese Treat
Taiwanese shaved ice is a refreshing dessert that comes in countless variations. Popular toppings include fresh fruit, taro balls, red beans, condensed milk, grass jelly, and seasonal ingredients.
Famous versions include mango shaved ice (which was personnally my favourite), especially during summer, making it one of the best desserts to enjoy after a long day of exploring Taiwan.
