Food In National Palace Museum

Food History of National Palace Museum, Taipei, Taiwan

The National Palace Museum in Taipei is not only a treasure trove of ancient Chinese artifacts and artworks but also a place where visitors can explore the rich culinary history of China. Although the museum itself is not primarily focused on food history, its vast collection of cultural relics includes artifacts related to food and dining, such as ancient porcelain and jade serving ware, which reflect the culinary traditions that have been an integral part of Chinese culture for millennia.

As the museum's exhibits demonstrate, the Chinese culinary tradition values harmony of flavor, presentation, and nutrition. Historical feasts and imperial banquets represented the apex of culinary sophistication, with precise preparation methods and a deep appreciation for seasonal ingredients. These practices have influenced not just the local Taiwanese cuisine but also the myriad regional cuisines across China.

Furthermore, the National Palace Museum occasionally hosts special exhibitions that focus on the culinary themes in Chinese art, sometimes complete with historical recipes and tales of food from different dynasties, offering visitors an insightful look at the culinary arts of ancient China.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in National Palace Museum for Tourists

1. Bubble Tea - A modern Taiwanese invention, bubble tea is a sweet tea-based drink with chewy tapioca pearls. (Non-Veg)
2. Beef Noodle Soup - A hearty bowl of braised beef, noodles, and a richly spiced broth. (Non-Veg)
3. Stinky Tofu - Fermented tofu that has a pungent odor but is a favorite for its unique flavor. It is usually deep-fried. (Veg)
4. Oyster Omelette - A savory omelette filled with small oysters and served with a sweet and spicy sauce. (Non-Veg)
5. Turnip Cake - Grated turnip mixed with bits of dried shrimp or ham; a popular dish during the Lunar New Year. (Non-Veg)
6. Sweet Potato Balls - Deep-fried and crispy on the outside, these chewy treats are a favorite local snack. (Veg)
7. Pineapple Cake - A sweet pastry with a pineapple jam filling; it's a beloved Taiwanese souvenir. (Veg)
8. Gua Bao - A steamed bun sandwich with tender braised pork, pickled mustard greens, coriander, and ground peanuts. (Non-Veg)
9. Vegetarian Mushroom Bun - A vegetarian alternative with mushrooms and a variety of fillings in a fluffy bun. (Veg)
10. Taro Balls - A dessert made from mashed taro, sweet potato, and glutinous rice flour, often served in a sweet soup. (Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in National Palace Museum, Taipei, Taiwan

Silks Palace at the National Palace Museum

Address: 221 Zhishan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111.

Famous Food: The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, but the Eight Treasures of the Study Box, inspired by artifacts in the museum, is a highlight. (Non-Veg/Veg)

Sanxitang Teahouse

Address: Inside the National Palace Museum, 221 Zhishan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111.

Famous Food: Known for its traditional Taiwanese tea and an assortment of light vegetarian snacks. (Veg)

Ya Ge - Taipei Garden Hotel

Address: 1 Zhonghua Rd, Section 2, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100.

Famous Food: Highly acclaimed for its exquisite Cantonese cuisine, including dim sum and a variety of seafood dishes. (Non-Veg/Veg)

When visiting the National Palace Museum, keep in mind that while the museum itself does not specialize in food, the surrounding area and attached restaurants offer a range of culinary experiences that reflect both traditional and modern Taiwanese tastes.