What to Eat in Taipei: The Ultimate Food Guide

Taipei is a food lover’s dream, where old recipes mix with new ideas. You can grab a hot bowl of beef noodles, sip bubble tea, or try crispy fried chicken at the night markets. The streets buzz with tiny food stalls, cozy cafés, and family-run shops serving all kinds of tasty snacks.

From simple breakfasts like soy milk and egg crepes to famous street eats like stinky tofu, Taipei is all about fresh, affordable, and flavorful food. You can go from a quiet tea house to a busy night market in minutes and always find something delicious.

Come hungry — there’s a reason Taipei is one of Asia’s favorite food spots!

🍜 Must-Try Local Dish in Taipei

🥢 A Bowl of Beef Noodle Soup I’ll Never Forget

I stumbled into this little shop after wandering the backstreets near Ximending, drawn in by the rich, meaty smell drifting out the door. The place was small and packed, with locals slurping away happily. When my bowl of beef noodle soup arrived, I was hit by the aroma—deep, savory, with hints of soy and star anise. The broth was dark and inviting. I took my first sip, and it was pure comfort: warm, bold, and full of flavor. The beef was melt-in-your-mouth tender, the noodles springy and smooth. Each bite felt like a hug after a long day. I finished every drop, sweating a little but grinning the whole time.

📖 About Beef Noodle Soup

Beef noodle soup is one of Taipei’s most beloved dishes—a rich, slow-cooked broth with tender beef chunks and chewy noodles. It’s more than a meal; it’s part of the city’s soul, eaten everywhere from night markets to family tables.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Yong Kang Beef Noodles

Famous for its deep, flavorful broth and soft, juicy beef—locals and tourists both line up here.
📍 Location: Near Dongmen MRT
💰 Cost: NT$200–300

Lao Zhang Beef Noodles

Known for its clear, clean-tasting broth and handmade noodles. A quieter spot but just as tasty.
📍 Location: Near Taipei Main Station
💰 Cost: NT$150–250

💡 Pro Tips

👉 Go around 11 AM to beat the lunch crowd.
👉 Ask for pickled mustard greens—they add a nice tangy kick.

🍠 Sweet Potato Balls That Made My Day

I was wandering through Raohe Night Market when I spotted a stall with a long line—always a good sign. The smell of sweet, toasted dough floated in the air. When I got my paper bag of piping-hot sweet potato balls, I gave one a gentle squeeze—it was light and a little crisp on the outside. I popped it into my mouth and got this wonderful mix of crispy shell and chewy, fluffy center, with a natural sweetness that wasn’t too strong. I couldn’t stop at one. Standing there, watching the hustle of the market and munching on these golden bites, felt like a perfect Taipei moment.

📖 About Sweet Potato Balls

Sweet potato balls are a classic Taiwanese street snack, made from sweet potato and tapioca flour, fried until they puff up. You’ll find them at almost every night market—they’re simple, but so addictive.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Raohe Night Market (stall near the main gate)

Always fresh, always hot—these are slightly bigger than usual and super light.
📍 Location: Raohe Street Night Market
💰 Cost: NT$50–70

Shilin Night Market (famous corner stall)

A local favorite for its super crispy texture and soft middle.
📍 Location: Shilin Night Market food court
💰 Cost: NT$50

💡 Pro Tips

👉 Eat them fresh—they lose their crispiness fast.
👉 Watch them being made; it’s fun seeing them puff up!
👉 Pair with a cup of cold lemon aiyu jelly for a refreshing combo.

🦆 A Bite of Crispy Taiwanese Fried Chicken

I grabbed a piece of fried chicken at a night market stall in Shilin—hard to miss with its mountain of golden-brown pieces under bright lights. The first bite was magic: the skin was extra crispy and full of five-spice flavor, with a little heat from white pepper. The chicken inside was juicy and tender, still steaming. Every bite crackled. I stood there, grease on my fingers, watching the world go by, totally happy.

📖 About Taiwanese Fried Chicken

Taiwanese fried chicken is a street food staple—bite-sized pieces marinated with soy, garlic, and spices, then deep-fried until crispy. It’s bold, crunchy, and perfect for eating on the go.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken

Famous for its giant pieces—bigger than your face!
📍 Location: Shilin Night Market
💰 Cost: NT$70–100

Ji Guang Fried Chicken

Smaller, juicier pieces with a hint of peppery kick.
📍 Location: Ximending
💰 Cost: NT$60–80

💡 Pro Tips

👉 Ask for spicy powder if you like a kick.
👉 Pair with a cold plum juice to balance the richness.
👉 Best eaten fresh—don’t wait too long or it loses its crunch.

🍢 A Night Market Bowl of Lu Rou Fan

I found this little stall near Ningxia Night Market that had a small sign: “Lu Rou Fan 40元.” I sat down on a low plastic stool, and soon a steaming bowl arrived—simple, but beautiful. The pork was soft and rich, with a deep soy flavor that soaked into the rice. There was a hint of sweet, a bit of spice, and a comforting fattiness that made each mouthful better than the last. I cleaned the bowl in minutes.

📖 About Lu Rou Fan

Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice) is a comfort dish in Taipei—minced or chopped pork belly slow-cooked in soy, rice wine, and spices, poured over warm white rice. Humble, but deeply satisfying.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice

A local favorite with rich, flavorful pork that melts in your mouth.
📍 Location: Near Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
💰 Cost: NT$40–60

Formosa Chang

Chain shop, but reliable for quick, tasty bowls.
📍 Location: Various branches (easy to find)
💰 Cost: NT$45–65

💡 Pro Tips

👉 Add a tea egg or pickled veggies on the side.
👉 Eat with a spoon to get every bit of sauce with the rice.
👉 Go during off-hours to avoid the long lines.

🧇 The Egg Waffle Treat I Didn’t Know I Needed

Walking through Ximending, I smelled something sweet and warm, and followed my nose to a little stand making egg waffles. The vendor handed me a fresh batch, still hot. I broke off a bubble and bit in—it was crisp at the edges, soft and slightly custardy inside, with a gentle vanilla sweetness. I walked along, pulling off pieces and smiling at how simple but perfect it was.

📖 About Egg Waffles

Egg waffles (or “Ji Dan Zai”) are a popular street snack, with origins in Hong Kong but loved in Taipei too. The batter is cooked in a special mold, creating crispy, airy “bubbles.”

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Ximending’s famous waffle stand

Long lines, but worth it for the fresh, golden waffles.
📍 Location: Ximending pedestrian area
💰 Cost: NT$50–70

Ningxia Night Market egg waffle cart

Slightly smaller bubbles, extra crispy, with optional chocolate drizzle.
📍 Location: Ningxia Night Market
💰 Cost: NT$50

💡 Pro Tips

👉 Eat it hot for the best texture.
👉 Try the chocolate or cheese-filled versions if you see them.

🍽️Signature Restaurant or Food Institution

🍽️ A Night to Remember at Din Tai Fung

Stepping into Din Tai Fung on Xinyi Road felt like entering a temple for dumpling lovers. The air smelled of steamed dough, rich broth, and sesame oil. The staff greeted me with warm smiles, and I watched the kitchen crew through the glass, their hands moving fast and precise as they folded each dumpling. I ordered the famous xiao long bao. When the basket arrived, I paused to admire the thin, delicate wrappers glistening with steam. The first bite was pure magic—the soft skin gave way to hot, savory broth and tender pork that melted in my mouth. Every dumpling after that was just as perfect. The whole experience felt calm yet full of energy, with the steady rhythm of clinking chopsticks and soft chatter.

📖 About Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung started as a small oil shop in 1958 before becoming world-famous for its dumplings. Known for precision and consistency, it’s a must-visit in Taipei, loved by locals and visitors alike for its clean flavors and top-notch service.

🍽️ What to Try:

• Xiao Long Bao – Thin-skinned soup dumplings with juicy pork filling and rich broth.
• Shrimp and Pork Shao Mai – A beautiful combo of seafood and meat wrapped in a soft dumpling skin.
• Fried Rice with Egg and Shrimp – Simple but full of wok fragrance, with plump shrimp and fluffy rice.

🍽️ Savoring Taiwanese Classics at Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice

I walked into Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice and was hit by the rich, savory smell of slow-cooked pork. The tiny shop was buzzing with locals, and the staff moved fast, serving bowl after bowl of lu rou fan. I grabbed a seat at a small table and ordered their famous braised pork rice topped with a soy-braised egg. When it arrived, I dug in eagerly. The pork was so tender it almost melted into the rice, its sauce salty, sweet, and sticky in the best way. Every spoonful was pure comfort. The egg was soaked in flavor, and I kept going until my bowl was empty—it was so simple, but one of the most satisfying meals I had in Taipei.

📖 About Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice

Jin Feng has been around for decades and is a legend in Taipei. Famous for its lu rou fan (braised pork rice), it’s a favorite for everyone from taxi drivers to office workers. It’s cheap, tasty, and hits the spot like nowhere else.

🍽️ What to Try:

• Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice) – Super tender pork belly on hot rice, a classic comfort dish.
• Braised Egg – Deeply marinated in soy sauce for extra flavor.
• Stir-fried Greens – Fresh, garlicky vegetables to balance the rich pork.

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🍽️ Slurping Perfection at Yong Kang Beef Noodles

I stepped into Yong Kang Beef Noodles just before noon, greeted by the rich, meaty aroma of simmering broth. The shop was already humming with locals and tourists perched at small tables. I ordered their famous braised beef noodle soup, and when it arrived, the first thing I noticed was the deep red broth and thick chunks of tender beef. The noodles had that perfect chewy bite, and the broth was bold and a bit spicy, warming me up with every sip. Every bite felt like a hearty, comforting hug, and I left the shop feeling full and very happy.

📖 About Yong Kang Beef Noodles

Opened in the 1960s, Yong Kang Beef Noodles is a Taipei icon known for its rich, slow-simmered broth and tender braised beef. It’s been drawing crowds for generations and is a must-try for anyone looking for authentic Taiwanese flavors.

🍽️ What to Try:

• Braised Beef Noodle Soup – Deeply flavorful broth, juicy beef chunks, and springy noodles.
• Steamed Pork Ribs – Succulent and rich with a light savory glaze.
• Pickled Mustard Greens – Tangy, crunchy side that cuts through the richness.

🍽️ A Heartwarming Feast at Wan Man Taiwan Wei Shou Lu Cai (丸滿台灣味手路菜)

Walking into Wan Man Taiwan Wei Shou Lu Cai felt like being welcomed into someone’s home. The warm lighting and wooden tables gave it a cozy, family-style feel. I decided to order their famous three-cup chicken. When the sizzling clay pot arrived, the rich scent of basil, soy, and rice wine hit me right away. Every bite of the tender chicken was soaked in flavor—sticky, savory, and slightly sweet. The crispy bits at the bottom of the pot were a tasty surprise. Between mouthfuls, I sipped some tea and listened to the friendly chatter around me. It felt so real and comforting, like a big family dinner.

📖 About Wan Man Taiwan Wei Shou Lu Cai

Wan Man Taiwan Wei Shou Lu Cai is known for its traditional Taiwanese home cooking, using recipes passed down through generations. It’s famous for serving rustic, heartfelt dishes like braised pork, three-cup chicken, and handmade tofu. Locals treasure it for its authentic flavors and warm, welcoming vibe.

🍽️ What to Try:

• Three-Cup Chicken – Classic Taiwanese favorite cooked with basil and rice wine, juicy and rich.
• Braised Pork Belly – Melts in your mouth with a deep soy and star anise flavor.
• Handmade Tofu – Silky and delicate, topped with a light soy sauce that’s simply delicious.

🍽️ Grilled Goodness at Raohe Night Market

Raohe Night Market was alive with glowing lanterns and the sizzling sound of meat hitting the grill. I followed my nose to a stall selling pepper pork buns. The chef was pulling piping-hot buns straight from a barrel oven. I took my first bite while the filling was still steaming—it was juicy pork with green onions, wrapped in a crisp, toasty bread shell. The contrast of crunchy outside and savory inside was addictive, and I wandered through the market savoring every last bite.

📖 About Raohe Night Market

One of Taipei’s oldest night markets, Raohe is famous for its street food scene and lively atmosphere. The pepper pork bun is its most iconic snack, drawing long lines every evening.

🍽️ What to Try:

• Pepper Pork Bun – Crispy, juicy, full of pork and green onions.
• Grilled Squid on a Stick – Smoky and tender, a perfect handheld snack.
• Bubble Tea – Freshly shaken right in front of you, sweet and cold.

🛍️Local Snack or Food Souvenir

🎁 A Sweet Souvenir: SunnyHills Pineapple Cake

I was strolling around Minsheng Community in Taipei when I stumbled upon SunnyHills. The shop was warm and smelled like butter and pineapple. I decided to pick up a box of their pineapple cakes after a small tasting. The pastry is soft and buttery, and inside is a sweet-tart pineapple jam that’s sticky and fragrant. Every piece is neatly wrapped in simple paper, making it feel like a tiny gift.

📖 About SunnyHills Pineapple Cake

Pineapple cake is a classic Taiwanese snack, often given as a gift during holidays or when visiting friends. SunnyHills is famous for using real pineapple, so the taste is less sugary and more like the fruit itself—a favorite with both locals and tourists.

🛒 Where to Buy It:

"SunnyHills store at Minsheng Community or at Taoyuan Airport."

🎁 Travel Tip:

"Yes, it travels well and stays fresh for a few weeks—perfect to take home as a tasty Taipei memory!"

🍵 Tea-Time Favorite: Wang De Chuan Tea Leaves

While exploring Yongkang Street, I wandered into Wang De Chuan, a classic tea shop with wooden shelves stacked high with tea tins. The shop smelled like roasted oolong and floral green teas. I decided to take home a small tin of their Alishan oolong — smooth and fragrant with a lingering sweetness that made my afternoon tea feel special back home.

📖 About Wang De Chuan Tea

Wang De Chuan is one of Taipei’s most respected tea brands, passed down for generations. Taiwanese tea is part of everyday life, and bringing home oolong or high-mountain tea is like sharing a piece of that tradition.

🛒 Where to Buy It:

"Wang De Chuan tea shops in Yongkang Street and Taipei 101."

🎁 Travel Tip:

"Yes — tins are compact, well-sealed, and last up to a year. Plus, they make a classy gift for any tea lover."

🥜 Crunchy Delight: Kuai Che Pork Paper

I stumbled across Kuai Che (快車肉乾) in a shop along Dihua Street. The smell of roasted meat pulled me in. I grabbed a few packs of their pork paper — ultra-thin slices of crispy pork jerky that shattered like a chip. They’re smoky, savory, and just a bit sweet, with sesame seeds that add a toasty flavor. Every piece is super light and addictive — perfect for snacking.

📖 About Kuai Che Pork Paper

Pork paper is a modern twist on traditional pork jerky. Kuai Che is famous for creating this crunchy style, and locals often buy it as a gift during Lunar New Year or when visiting friends.

🛒 Where to Buy It:

"Kuai Che stores at Dihua Street, Sogo Mall, and Taoyuan Airport."

🎁 Travel Tip:

"Yes — flat, light, and sealed in foil packs that fit easily in your luggage."

Discover Taipei: An Unforgettable Food Journey

After spending a few days in Taipei, I can honestly say this city is a food lover’s dream. Every street and night market is packed with tasty surprises. From a steamy bowl of beef noodle soup to crispy pork buns and sweet bubble tea, Taipei never lets you go hungry. Don’t miss the juicy xiao long bao at famous spots like Din Tai Fung or a quick snack of pork pepper buns at Raohe Night Market.

If you’re thinking of a trip, now’s the perfect time. Book your flight from Manila to Taipei and look for a hotel in Taipei close to the action — maybe near Ximending for shopping and street food, Daan for cozy cafés, or Zhongshan for great eats after dark.

Not sure where to eat? Trip.com has all the local spots covered so you can plan your food stops easily.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, Taipei will surprise you with every bite. Pack light — you’ll need extra space for all the snacks you’ll want to take home!