Food In Keelung

Food History of Keelung, Taiwan

Keelung, a major port city in northern Taiwan, has a culinary heritage deeply influenced by its history as a fishing hub and its diverse blend of cultures, including Indigenous peoples, Han Chinese settlers, and Japanese colonizers. Its coastal location has made seafood a staple in its cuisine. The city's night market culture, in particular Miaokou Night Market, has helped shape the local food scene, making it famous for its various street foods and local snacks. The city's rich history is reflected through its variety of traditional and fusion foods, which are influenced by both local and international flavors.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Keelung, Taiwan

1. Tempura (甜不辣) - Non-Veg: Not to be confused with Japanese tempura, Taiwanese tempura is a deep-fried fishcake often sold at night markets.
2. Braised Dishes (滷味) - Non-Veg/Veg options available: A common street food, it involves simmered items of your choice, like tofu, vegetables, or various meats in a soy-based broth.
3. Potstickers (鍋貼) - Non-Veg: These Taiwanese dumplings are filled with meat and vegetables, with a crispy pan-fried bottom and steamed top.
4. Seafood Soup (海鮮羹) - Non-Veg: Reflecting its port city status, Keelung offers a variety of thick and hearty seafood soups, filled with fresh local seafood.
5. Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎) - Non-Veg: A beloved Taiwanese dish that combines oysters with a starch-based batter and eggs, typically served with a sweet and savory sauce.
6. Rice Noodles (米粉湯) - Non-Veg/Veg options available: A comforting bowl of rice noodles, often in a light broth with various toppings like meat or mushrooms.
7. Vegetarian Buffet (素食自助餐) - Veg: Keelung has several vegetarian buffets, reflecting the Buddhist influence on the city, with an array of meat-free dishes.
8. Peanut Ice Cream Roll (花生捲冰淇淋) - Veg: A unique dessert roll made with thin flour wraps, ice cream, and shavings of peanut brittle.
9. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐) - Veg: Fermented tofu that is deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage, it’s known for its pungent odor and flavorful taste.
10. Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶) - Veg: Although available globally, trying this iconic beverage with its origins in Taiwan is a must, made with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls.

Top Famous Restaurants in Keelung, Taiwan

Keelung Miaokou Night Market (基隆廟口夜市)

Address: Ren 3rd Rd, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 200

Famous for: Tempura - Non-Veg, Seafood Soup - Non-Veg

Yi Feng Fishball Shop (一峰魚丸本店)

Address: No. 16, Ai 3rd Road, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 200

Famous for: Fish Balls - Non-Veg

Chia Ji Vegetarian Buffet (嘉吉素食自助餐)

Address: No. 18, Lane 49, Ai 4th Road, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 200

Famous for: Vegetarian Buffet - Veg

Bisha Fishing Port Seafood (碧砂漁港)

Address: No. 62, Bisha Harbor, Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan 202

Famous for: Fresh Seafood Cuisine - Non-Veg

Agang Restaurant (阿港海產)

Address: No. 148, Gangxi St, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 200

Famous for: Grilled Squid - Non-Veg