Food In Taipei

Taipei, Taiwan Food History

Taipei, as the capital of Taiwan, is a melting pot of culinary traditions from various regions of China, as well as indigenous Taiwanese and international influences. The history of food in Taipei is deeply intertwined with the waves of migration and colonization. As settlers from Fujian and Guangdong provinces moved to Taiwan, they brought along their culinary traditions, such as the famous xiao long bao. The Japanese colonization also left a mark on Taiwanese cuisine, introducing ingredients like sake and soy sauce. After World War II, as Chinese Nationalists retreated to Taiwan, they brought dishes from all over China, thus diversifying Taipei's food scene even further. Taiwanese street food and night markets have become iconic, showcasing the island's diverse and vibrant food culture.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Taipei

1. Beef Noodle Soup — A rich, flavorful broth with tender beef, hand-pulled noodles, and often pickled mustard greens. (Non-veg)
2. Stinky Tofu — Often found at night markets, this fermented tofu has a pungent odor but is a beloved Taiwanese snack. Serve either fried or steamed and topped with pickled vegetables. (Veg)
3. Bubble Tea — Known as pearl milk tea, this sweet drink is made with milk, tea, and chewy tapioca balls. Originating from Taiwan, it's a must-try. (Veg)
4. Oyster Omelette — A savory omelette consisting of small oysters, a starch-based batter, and greens, smothered with a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. (Non-veg)
5. Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan) — A flavorful bowl of rice topped with slow-cooked, savory minced pork. A typical Taiwanese comfort food. (Non-veg)
6. Vegetarian Mushroom Bun (Gua Bao) — A variation of the traditional Gua Bao, stuffed with mushrooms and greens instead of pork for a vegetarian option. (Veg)
7. Pineapple Cake — A sweet pastry with a crispy exterior and a jam-like pineapple filling. Perfect as a snack or souvenir. (Veg)
8. Sweet Potato Balls — Crispy on the outside and chewy inside, these deep-fried treats are a popular snack at Taiwanese night markets. (Veg)
9. Soy Milk Soup (Dou Jiang) — A savory or sweet soup typically enjoyed for breakfast, made from soy milk and often accompanied by youtiao (deep-fried dough sticks). (Veg)
10. Shaved Ice (Bao Bing) — A refreshing dessert made of finely shaved ice topped with various syrups, fruit, and sometimes sweet beans or taro. (Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Taipei

• Din Tai Fung

  Address: No. 194, Section 2, Xinyi Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

  Famous for: Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) and a range of vegan options. (Veg & Non-Veg)

• Veggie Creek

  Address: No. 6, Lane 260, Guangfu South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

  Famous for: A variety of vegetarian dishes inspired by international cuisines. (Veg)

• The Jade Room

  Address: No. 45, Shifu Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110

  Famous for: Upscale Taiwanese dining with vegetarian and vegan options available. (Veg & Non-Veg)

• Shilin Night Market

  Address: No. 101, Jihe Road, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111

  Famous for: Street food variety, such as Stinky Tofu and Sweet Potato Balls. (Veg & Non-Veg)

• Yongkang Beef Noodle

  Address: No. 17, Lane 31, Section 2, Jinshan South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

  Famous for: Their signature Beef Noodle Soup. (Non-Veg)