Food History of Hayashi Department Store, Tainan, Taiwan
The Hayashi Department Store is a historical landmark in Tainan, dating back to its establishment in 1932 during the Japanese colonial era. While it originally served as a modern shopping destination of its time, this five-story building became a major cultural and commercial hub in Tainan. The rooftop of the department store was famously the first place in Tainan where a Shinto shrine was located and where locals could catch a view of the city from above.
Post-restoration in 2013, the department store has featured a blend of history, culture, and cuisine. While its food offerings are not as old as the building itself, the gastronomical experience provided within reflects Tainan's rich culinary heritage, influenced by Taiwanese, Asian, and international flavors, and it provides an excellent curated experience for both locals and tourists alike.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Hayashi Department Store, Tainan, Taiwan for Tourists
- Tainan Danzai Noodles - A classic Tainan dish, it features a shrimp broth with noodles and minced pork (Non-Veg).
- Gua Bao - Known as Taiwanese hamburgers, these steamed buns are typically filled with braised pork, pickled mustard, and peanut powder (Non-Veg).
- Bubble Tea - A Taiwanese invention, this sweet milk tea comes with chewy tapioca balls (Vegetarian).
- Popiah - Fresh spring roll usually filled with a stir-fried mixture of vegetables and sometimes meat (Vegetarian or Non-Veg options).
- Taro Balls - A sweet dessert made from taro, often served in a sugary syrup (Vegetarian).
- Green Mango Pickle - Tangy and slightly spicy pickled mango, a must-try snack (Vegetarian).
- Oyster Omelette - A local favorite dish that combines oysters with egg in a savory pancake-style omelette (Non-Veg).
- Taiwanese Pineapple Cake - A popular souvenir, this cake is filled with pineapple jam (Vegetarian).
- Turnip Cake - Made from shredded radish and rice flour, this savory cake is often served during breakfast (Vegetarian).
- Sweet Potato Balls - Fried to golden perfection, these chewy balls are a delicious snack (Vegetarian).
Top Famous Restaurants in Hayashi Department Store, Tainan, Taiwan
- Shin Yeh Restaurant
- Address: 5F, No.63 Section 2, Zhongyi Rd, West Central Dist, Tainan City
- Famous Food: Taiwanese Set Menu (Non-Veg and Vegetarian options available)
- Chun Shui Tang
- Address: 4F, No.63 Section 2, Zhongyi Rd, West Central Dist, Tainan City
- Famous Food: Original Bubble Milk Tea (Vegetarian)
- Yong Kang Beef Noodles
- Address: B1, No.63 Section 2, Zhongyi Rd, West Central Dist, Tainan City
- Famous Food: Beef Noodles (Non-Veg)
Note: As the offerings may change, it is suggested to confirm the current food options with the restaurants or department store to ensure availability, especially if specific dietary needs must be met.