Must-Try Foods In East Rift Valley National Scenic Area (Taitung) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of East Rift Valley National Scenic Area, Taitung, Taiwan

The East Rift Valley in Taitung boasts a rich and diverse food history, owing much to its indigenous cultures and the abundance of natural resources. The valley, framed by the Central and Coastal mountain ranges, has been home to several indigenous groups, including the Amis, Bunun, and Paiwan, who have their own unique culinary traditions. Their diet primarily consists of locally sourced ingredients like millet, taro, and a variety of mountain vegetables and herbs. In addition to these traditional staples, the area's subtropical climate allows for a wealth of fruits like guavas, papayas, and passion fruit, influencing the local cuisine with fresh and natural flavors.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in East Rift Valley National Scenic Area, Taitung, Taiwan

1. Millet Wine (Non-Veg) - A traditional alcoholic beverage brewed by the indigenous tribes from millet. It is a significant part of the local culinary tradition.
2. Sticky Rice Tamale (Vegetarian) - Known locally as 'zongzi'. It is made from glutinous rice filled with assorted ingredients and wrapped in bamboo leaves.
3. Bamboo Rice (Vegetarian) - Rice cooked with a selection of meats and vegetables inside bamboo cylinders, acquiring a distinctive flavor from the bamboo.
4. Wild Boar (Non-Veg) - Often prepared by the indigenous people and is considered a delicacy, served roasted or in a rich stew.
5. Taro Balls (Vegetarian) - These are dessert items made from mashed taro, sweet potato, and tapioca flour, served in a sweet soup or with ice.
6. Mountain Vegetable Dishes (Vegetarian) - A variety of leafy greens harvested from the surrounding mountains, typically stir-fried or steamed.
7. Flying Fish (Non-Veg) - A special ingredient in the Amis people's diet, prepared in multiple ways including grilled or in soups.
8. Papaya Milkshake (Vegetarian) - A popular beverage across Taiwan, especially refreshing in the Taitung heat.
9. Passion Fruit Juice (Vegetarian) - Freshly made from local passion fruits, it is sweet, tangy, and highly refreshing.
10. Moon Shrimp Cakes (Non-Veg) - A speciality of Taitung, these are savory cakes packed with shrimp and local ingredients.

Top Famous Restaurants in East Rift Valley National Scenic Area, Taitung, Taiwan

1. Dachi Restaurant - Amis Cuisine

Address: No. 600, Sec 3, Zhongxing Rd, Taitung City, Taitung County

Famous Dish: Bamboo Rice (Vegetarian) and Wild Boar (Non-Veg)

2. Pisirian Restaurant - Seafood Delights

Address: No. 89-5, Fengbin Township, Hualien County

Famous Dish: Grilled Flying Fish (Non-Veg)

3. Luanshan Tribal Restaurant - Indigenous Cuisine

Address: No. 15-22, Luan Mountain, Yuli Township, Hualien County

Famous Dish: Mountain Vegetable Dishes (Vegetarian) and Millet Wine (Non-Veg)

4. Da Yu Wan Fish Restaurant - Fresh Seafood

Address: No. 135, Changbin Township, Changbin, Taitung County

Famous Dish: Moon Shrimp Cakes (Non-Veg)

5. Taitung Papaya Milk Stand - Local Beverages

Address: Ziqiang Night Market, Taitung City, Taitung County

Famous Dish: Papaya Milkshake (Vegetarian)

6. Passion Valley - Specialty Juices

Address: No. 60, Guanshan Township, Taitung County

Famous Dish: Passion Fruit Juice (Vegetarian)

Note that the non-veg dishes mentioned exclude cow meat as per the request.