Gourmet food to eat in Taiwan! A list of famous restaurants, noodles, sweets, and even octagon-free menus!

What makes Taiwanese cuisine so appealing?

Taiwan is packed with culinary delights, from street stalls to famous restaurantsA Food Lover's ParadiseIt is.

In this article, we cover everything from classic dishes and famous restaurants to noodles, desserts, and even dishes you can enjoy without star anise,A Comprehensive Guide to Taiwanese CuisineLet me introduce it to you.

Even if it’s your first trip to Taiwan, you’ll have no trouble sampling the local food!

Taiwan Recommendations
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6 Must-Try Classic Dishes in Taiwan

There are so many different kinds of Taiwanese food that it’s hard to choose, isn’t it?

If you make sure to try the six dishes featured here, your meals while traveling will beYou're sure to be completely satisfiedThat's right!

Taiwan | Tours with Japanese-Speaking Guides No Need to Worry, Even If It’s Your First Time! Discover the Charms of Taiwan with a Japanese-Speaking Guide While excitement for overseas travel is growing, many people still feel anxious about communicating in a foreign country, wondering, “What if I can’t make myself understood?” In such cases, we recommend a local […] (14 items total) アクティビティの詳細を見る

[Taiwan/1 Day] Private Car Tour: Jiufen Night Views & Shifen Sky Lantern Release & Taipei City Sightseeing Tour☆Longshan Temple + Martyrs' Shrine + National Palace Museum, etc. (Includes Japanese-speaking guide & transportation) (No. 1)開始時間: 1:20 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.所要時間: About 10 hours38,090 yen

[Taiwan / Approx. 5 hours] Private Chartered Car Tour! Evening Stroll in Jiufen & Sky Lantern Release Experience in Shifen (Japanese-speaking guide included, round-trip transportation provided) (No. 2)開始時間: 4:00 p.m. from October through March / 4:45 p.m. from April through September所要時間: About 5 hours27,150 yen

soup dumpling

When it comes to Taiwanese cuisine, xiaolongbao is definitely the first thing that comes to mind!

The thin wrapper is filled with plenty of soup, and the moment you take a bite,Juices gush outCome and experience the magic for yourself.

The authentic way to enjoy this dish is to top it with ginger and dip it in black vinegar sauce.

Lu Lo Fan

Pork belly simmered in a sweet and savory sauce, generously poured over piping hot riceTaiwanese Soul Food。

Each restaurant has its own unique seasoning and cuts of meat, so comparing them is part of the fun.

Please note that some restaurants use star anise or five-spice powder in their stews,Unique spices...is being used.

If you're concerned, try using the confirmation phrases described below.

[Taiwan/7.5 hours] Afternoon Departure! Stunning Cable Car Ride in Maokong & Taiwanese Tea ☆ Evening Stroll Through Jiufen 《Includes Japanese-Speaking Guide and Transportation》 (No. 9)開始時間: 2:00 PM–9:30 PM所要時間: About 7.5 hours29,150 yen

[Tainan & Kaohsiung / 6 hours or more] Stroll Through the Ancient Capital & Indulge in Local Cuisine☆ Exclusive Private Charter Tour! Peace of Mind with Round-Trip Transportation Included (No. 17)開始時間: 10:00 a.m.– (Selectable in 30-minute increments)所要時間: 6 hours / 8 hours / 10 hours44,990 yen

fermented tofu

Fermented tofu is known for its strong smell, but when you actually try it, it’s surprisinglyCreamy and addictiveIt is a taste that becomes

There are fried and steamed varieties, and fried stinky tofu is a staple at night markets.

With a crispy exterior and a soft, creamy interior, this dish lets you experience the true essence of Taiwanese cuisine.

Why not take the plunge and give it a try?

[Taiwan / 4 Hours] A Relaxing Private Tour for Families! Longshan Temple, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, 44 South Village, and Lunch at a Popular Restaurant (Japanese-speaking guide and transportation included) (No. 5)開始時間: 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.所要時間: About 4 hours37,890 yen

mochi with red bean paste

Crispy on the outside, fresh out of the oven, and soft on the insideJuicy ground pork with a peppery kickThat combination is just irresistibleStreet FoodIt is.

Baked in a traditional oven, the dough has a rich, toasty flavor, and the best way to enjoy it is to bite into a fresh-out-of-the-oven piece.

If you see this at Raohe Street Night Market or Shilin Night Market, be sure to join the line. It’s piping hot, so be careful not to burn yourself!

Scallion Pancake

A Taiwanese dish made by baking thin pancakes packed with green onions on a griddleBreakfast and Street Food ClassicsIt is.

Simple, yetThe savory aroma of green onionsWith its perfect combination of a crispy exterior and chewy interior, it’s a huge hit with both locals and tourists.

There are also plenty of variations, such as versions with eggs or beef rolls, andThe taste varies from stall to stallThat's what makes it interesting.

Boiled dumplings

Taiwanese dumplings have thicker wrappers than Japanese ones,A chewy textureis a feature of this product.

The classic fillings are pork and Chinese chives, and the juicy, savory flavor of the steamed dumplings fills your mouth.

Enjoy it simply with soy sauce or chili oilThat's the authentic style.

One of the highlights at specialty shops is watching the food simmer away in large pots, and we also recommend getting it to go and eating it on the go.

[Taiwan / Morning · 5 hours] National Palace Museum Tour! With commentary by a Japanese-speaking guide ☆ Includes lunch (choice of xiaolongbao or Mongolian BBQ) 《Hotel pickup and drop-off included》 (No. 7)開始時間: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.所要時間: About 5 hours25,500 yen

[Tainan, Taiwan / 1 Day] Private Tour with Japanese-Speaking Guide ☆ Enjoy the Highlights of This Ancient City! Yizai Jincheng, Anping Tree House, Wushantou Dam, and Xinhua Old Street (Includes Danzi Noodles for Lunch and Round-Trip Transportation) (No. 12)開始時間: 8:50 a.m.–5:30 p.m.所要時間: About 8.5 hours41,870 yen

5 Must-Visit Restaurants for Taiwanese Cuisine

Taiwan is home to many famous restaurants where long lines are a given.

Since you're coming all this way,A famous restaurant loved by both locals and touristsLet's make sure to keep this in mind!

[Tainan & Kaohsiung / 6 hours or more] Stroll Through the Ancient Capital & Indulge in Local Cuisine☆ Exclusive Private Charter Tour! Peace of Mind with Round-Trip Transportation Included (No. 17)開始時間: 10:00 a.m.– (Selectable in 30-minute increments)所要時間: 6 hours / 8 hours / 10 hours44,990 yen

[Taipei, Taiwan / 4–8 hours] Luxury Van Charter with Japanese-speaking guide (Max. 4 passengers, Wi-Fi included) (No. 3)開始時間: 7:00–所要時間: 4 hours / 8 hours80,440 yen

Enjoy Taiwan's Popular Restaurants and Culinary Delights!
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Jinfeng Lu Rou Fan

This restaurant, located near Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station, is famous for its lu rou fan.

It’s a huge hit with both locals and tourists alike because it offers authentic Taiwanese cuisine at reasonable prices.

Not just lu rou fan, but also,There is also a wide selection of typical Taiwanese side dishes, such as soup and braised eggsIt’s a great way to get a taste of the local vibe.

Fuhang Doujiang

Located on the second floor of a building right next to Shandou Temple Station in Taipei,A super-popular restaurant specializing in breakfastIt is.

This highly regarded restaurant has been selected for the Michelin Bib Gourmand,Soy milk soup and fried breadPeople line up every day to get it.

The shop opens at 5:30 a.m., but even around 7:00 a.m., you might have to wait an hour. It’s definitely worth getting up early to stand in line!

We are closed on MondaysTherefore, caution is required.

Yongkang Beef Noodles

Located in the Yongkang Street area near Dongmen StationA renowned beef noodle shopIt is.

With its rich braised beef soup and chunks of tender, slow-cooked beef, this bowl is sure to leave you completely satisfied!

A shop loved by both tourists and localsSo, it gets especially crowded at lunchtime.

Shilin Night Market

TaiwanThe Largest Night MarketAnother appealing feature is its convenient location, just a short walk from Jiantan Station.

The underground food court is home to a wide variety of Taiwanese delicacies, including stinky tofu, giant chicken cutlets, and bubble teaWe have everything you need。

There are so many food stalls that it’s easy to get lost, but that’s part of the charm of Shilin Night Market. It starts to get busy around 6:00 p.m. and stays lively until late at night.

Raoh Street Night Market

Located just a short walk from Matsuyama Station, approximatelyA compact night market stretching 600 metersIt is.

Since it’s not as big as Shilin, it’s easy to get around without getting lost, and at the entrance...The pepper cake stall is a famous attraction at Raohe Street Night Marketis famous for...

It has a strong local feel and offers a relaxing atmosphere where you can unwind after getting tired of the tourist crowds.

For those who want to efficiently sample popular local cuisineThis is a night market we highly recommend.

↓Click here for more information about the night market↓

7 Recommended Night Markets in Taiwan | A Comprehensive Guide to Must-See Attractions and Classic Dishes for First-TimersWhat Are Taiwanese Night Markets? How to Pronounce Them and Basic Tips for Enjoying Them Taiwanese night markets (pronounced: “Taiwan Yoi-chi”) are outdoor markets held every night throughout Taiwan. They feature a variety of food, games, and souvenirs, and their appeal lies in the fact that both locals and tourists can enjoy them together. When traveling in Taiwan, visiting a night market […]

Complete Guide to Taiwanese Food Stalls｜15 Must-Try Dishes and Sweets at Night MarketsWhat Makes Taiwanese Street Food So Appealing? In this column, we’ll introduce all the must-try street food you absolutely can’t miss on a trip to Taiwan, along with our top recommendations for dishes and desserts to enjoy at the night markets. We’ve covered everything from classic favorites to Instagram-worthy desserts, so be sure to use this as a guide to plan your trip […]

Enjoy the night market!
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4 Recommended Taiwanese Noodle Dishes

Taiwan's noodle culture is rich and diverse, offering everything from soup-based to stir-fried varieties.

Here,4 items that are especially popular with travelersLet me introduce you to...

[Taichung, Taiwan / 1 Day] Departing from Taipei ☆ Easy Access by High-Speed Rail! Sun Moon Lake + Rainbow Village + Gaomei Wetlands Tour 《Japanese-Speaking Guide & Meals Included》 (No. 8)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 7:40 p.m.所要時間: About 12 hours63,600 yen

[Taiwan/7.5 hours] Afternoon Departure! Stunning Cable Car Ride in Maokong & Taiwanese Tea ☆ Evening Stroll Through Jiufen 《Includes Japanese-Speaking Guide and Transportation》 (No. 9)開始時間: 2:00 PM–9:30 PM所要時間: About 7.5 hours29,150 yen

Beef Noodles

A signature Taiwanese noodle dish featuring braised beef andA rich soupis a feature of this product.

The standard soup options are the spicy soy sauce-based "Hong Shao" and the light, herbal "Qing Dun."

Star anise is often used in soupsTherefore, if you have any concerns, we recommend checking with our staff before placing your order.

Danzi Noodles

A local noodle dish originating in Tainan, served in a small bowlSoup with a rich shrimp brothIt’s a bowl of thin noodles topped with minced pork, shrimp, and a soft-boiled egg.

A light, mild flavorPlus, it’s great that the portions are just the right size for a quick bite while you’re out and about.

You can easily find it at almost any restaurant in Tainan.

Oa Mi Soa

Oysters and thin, noodle-like somen noodles,A thick soy sauce brothIt's a Taiwanese soul food dish simmered in...

With its addictive chewy and melt-in-your-mouth texture, you can enjoy this dish at street stalls and diners at reasonable prices.

It often comes topped with cilantroTherefore, if you don’t like it, it’s best to specify “No cilantro (būyào xiāncài)” when ordering.

Dried noodles

These noodles are served without soup, offering a simple yet rich flavor.An essential part of a Taiwanese breakfastIt's a one-of-a-kind item.

The typical style involves tossing the noodles in a soy sauce-based sauce with a small amount of oil, then topping them with green onions and ground meat.

Depending on the restaurant, peanut sauce or black vinegar may be added, giving each dish its own unique character.

5 Recommended Taiwanese Desserts

Taiwanese sweets are perfect for the hot weatherCold thingsSomething cozy and heartwarmingSomething warm...are all available.

Be sure to give it a try between meals!

[Taiwan/Approx. 1 hour] Jiufen Tea House · Tea Tasting Experience ☆ Enjoy authentic Taiwanese tea at a nostalgic tea house (No. 16)開始時間: 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 13:00, 13:30, 14:00, 14:30, 15:00, 3:30 PM, 4:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 5:00 PM, 5:30 PM, 6:00 PM, 6:30 PM所要時間: About 1 hour5,560 yen

[Taichung, Taiwan / 1 Day] Departing from Taipei ☆ Easy Access by High-Speed Rail! Sun Moon Lake + Rainbow Village + Gaomei Wetlands Tour 《Japanese-Speaking Guide & Meals Included》 (No. 8)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 7:40 p.m.所要時間: About 12 hours63,600 yen

Bubble Tea

Bubble tea, which originated in Taiwan, tastes completely different when you drink it in its country of origin.

You can customize the sweetness and amount of iceThat’s the Taiwanese way. You can easily find them anywhere—from chain stores in the city to night market stalls—so they’re perfect for snacking on as you walk around.

Mango Shaved Ice

Shaved ice made with plenty of Taiwanese mangoes is a particularly popular Taiwanese dessert among Japanese tourists.

The sight of fresh mango, mango sauce, and condensed milk drizzled over fluffy shaved ice isIt looks great in photos！

The peak season is from May to September頃So, if you visit during this season, you can enjoy mangoes with a sweeter flavor.

↓Click here for more information about Taiwanese shaved ice↓

Must-Try Shaved Ice in Taiwan! A Guide to Different Types (Like Xue Hua Bing), Their Features, and Famous Local ShopsWhat Is Taiwanese Shaved Ice, a Classic Taiwanese Dessert? “Taiwanese shaved ice” is one of the must-try culinary experiences on any trip to Taiwan. In this column, we’ll introduce everything there is to know about Taiwanese shaved ice—from the different types and names to classic toppings and famous local shops. If you’re visiting Taiwan for the first time […]

Douhua

This soft tofu dessert is made by setting soy milk, and is typically served with warm or cold syrup.

Tapioca, red beans, taro balls, peanuts, and otherMix and match toppingsThat’s the Taiwanese way of enjoying it.

A light, subtle sweetnessIt’s also perfect for after a meal. It’s available everywhere from street stalls to specialty shops, and the reasonable prices are a big draw.

Herbal Jelly

It is a black jelly made from a plant called "senchao,"A subtle bitterness and a refreshing sweetnessThis is a dessert known for its distinctive features.

In summer, it’s customary to eat it chilled, and adding milk or syrup gives it a mellow flavor.

In Taiwan,Health BenefitsIt’s also a popular dessert that you can easily enjoy at night markets.

Pineapple Cake

A classic Taiwanese souvenir, featuring a buttery, flaky crust thatBaked goods filled with pineapple jamIt is.

Recently, there has been an increase in variety, including options like 100% pineapple and those with cream cheese.

Many tourists buy these items in bulk at specialty shops and department stores, and their relatively long shelf life is one of the reasons they make great souvenirs.

↓Click here for more information about pineapple cake↓

5 Top Pineapple Cake Brands in Taiwan! Which Ones Are Famous or High-End? Where Can You Buy Them in Japan?What Is Taiwanese Pineapple Cake (Fengli Su)? When it comes to iconic souvenirs from Taiwan, pineapple cake (Fengli Su) is a must-mention. In this column, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect pineapple cake, covering everything from the characteristics and prices of famous shops to how you can buy them in Japan. & […]

No star anise—so you can enjoy it with peace of mind
What makes Taiwanese cuisine so enjoyable?

I’m sure there are many people who want to enjoy Taiwanese cuisine but aren’t fond of star anise.

If you have the right knowledge,You can still fully enjoy Taiwanese cuisine even if you avoid star anise！

What Exactly Is Star Anise? How It’s Used in Taiwanese Cuisine

Star anise (bajiao) isA distinctive sweet aroma reminiscent of cinnamonThis spice is characterized by...

In Taiwanese cuisine, in stewed pork and beef dishesOdor removerIt is used as...

Since spices are often incorporated into the dish, it can be difficult to remove them, soThings to check before placing an orderis best.

List of Recommended Dishes You Can Enjoy Without Star Anise

Surprisingly, there are plenty of Taiwanese dishes you can enjoy even if you don't like star aniseAbundantis located at.

Dishes to Watch Out For That Often Contain Star Anise

On the other hand, here are some dishes to watch out for because they often contain star anise:It contains meatCuisine.

When requesting an octagonal cutout
Chinese Phrases

Here are three useful Chinese phrases for telling someone you don’t like star anise.

Since just showing the text is enough to get the point across,ScreenshotIt’s a good idea to take a picture of it just in case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Taiwanese Cuisine

summary

From classic xiaolongbao to night market street food and exquisite desserts,The joys of food are endlessIt has its charm.

Even if you’re not a fan of star anise, you can still enjoy Taiwanese cuisine with confidence by following the tips we’ve shared here.

We hope you find something you love and enjoy your trip to Taiwan to the fullest!

↓Click here to read the article.

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