Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
1. Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵)
A hearty dish featuring tender beef slices and chewy noodles in a rich, flavorful broth. Try it at the iconic Lin Dong Fang (林東豐) in Taipei Main Station.
- Authenticity: Long-established restaurant known for its traditional beef noodle soup recipe.
- Dining Experience: Spacious and lively atmosphere with quick service.
- Popularity: A favorite among locals and tourists alike.
2. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)
Fermented tofu served in a variety of ways, including deep-fried and stewed. Sample it at the original Shilin Night Market (時林夜市).
- Unique Taste: A distinct aroma and flavor that sets it apart from regular tofu.
- Market Atmosphere: Explore a bustling, vibrant night market while enjoying the local street food.
- Adventurous Eating: Try this exotic dish for an unforgettable culinary experience.
3. Bubble Milk Tea (珍珠奶茶)
A popular Taiwanese drink made with black tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. Grab a cup at Chun Shui Tang (春水堂) in Zhongzheng District.
- Traditional Recipe: Originally created here, this is the place for an authentic bubble milk tea experience.
- Relaxing Environment: A tranquil teahouse setting perfect for a break from sightseeing.
- Iconic Drink: Must-try beverage that represents Taiwanese culture.
4. Xiaolongbao (小籠包)
Steamed dumplings filled with a savory pork and soup broth. Savor them at Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) in Xinyi District.
- Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients ensure exceptional taste.
- Consistent Quality: Known worldwide for its consistent quality and attention to detail.
- Modern Atmosphere: A sleek, contemporary setting that adds a modern twist to the traditional dish.
5. Oyster Omelette (蚵仔ter)
A delicious omelette made with fresh oysters, starch, and spices. Taste it at the renowned Huwei Beo (魯尾婆) in Datong District.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use of fresh, locally sourced oysters enhances the taste.
- Skilled Chefs: Experienced chefs prepare each dish with precision and care.
- Cozy Atmosphere: A casual, inviting environment perfect for a quick meal.
6. Taipei Fried Chicken (台北雞排)
Crispy, juicy fried chicken served with pickled cabbage and peanut powder. Try it at Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle (阿宗麵線) in Wanhua District.
- Perfect Crunch: A perfect balance between crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Traditional Recipe: Prepared according to a traditional recipe passed down through generations.
- Portable Snack: Ideal for a quick, tasty snack on the go.
7. Shrimp Rolls (蝦餅)
Fresh shrimp wrapped in a thin layer of dough and steamed. Enjoy them at Tang'an Shrimp Rolls (塘安蝦餅) in Datong District.
- Ultra-Fresh Ingredients: Locally sourced shrimp ensures maximum freshness.
- Easy to Eat: Portable, easy-to-eat snack that's perfect for exploring the city.
- Steam Cooking: Steaming locks in flavors and keeps the shrimp tender.
8. Fried Pork Cutlet (肉厚牛肉鬆)
A breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet served with pickles and rice. Sample it at Chuang Yen (莊彥) in Wanhua District.
- Crispy Exterior: Golden-brown, crispy breading adds a satisfying crunch.
- Juicy Interior: Tender, juicy pork inside the crispy exterior.
- Old-Fashioned Atmosphere: An old-fashioned diner setting that transports you back in time.
9. Mango Shaved Ice (墨榮雪糕)
A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh mango. Indulge in it at Mango Snowflake (墨榮雪糍) in Da'an District.
- Fresh Mango: High-quality mango guarantees a delicious, natural sweetness.
- Icy Texture: The fine texture of the shaved ice provides a cooling sensation.
- Popular Dessert: A beloved dessert among both locals and tourists.
10. Pineapple Cake (菠萝酥)
A sweet, flaky pastry filled with pineapple jam. Try it at Addiction Aquatic Development (妈妈魚粥) in Xinyi District.
- Authentic Flavor: Made with locally sourced pineapples, the cakes retain their tropical flavor.
- Delicate Pastry: A crispy, flaky crust envelops a sweet, creamy filling.
- Casual Setting: Grab a box of pineapple cakes to go and enjoy them later.
11. Stir-Fried Squid (炒魷魚)
Tender squid stir-fried with garlic and soy sauce. Taste it at Yong Kang Beef Noodle (永康牛肉麵) in Wanhua District.
- Fresh Seafood: Fresh, locally sourced squid guarantees a delightful texture.
- Spicy Option: Add chili oil or pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
- Long-Established Restaurant: A well-known restaurant that has been serving delicious dishes since 1962.
12. Shaved Ice with Grass Jelly (青蛋凍冰)
A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, sweetened condensed milk, and grass jelly. Enjoy it at Iced Jellies (泡水草凍) in Datong District.
- Cooling Effect: The combination of shaved ice and grass jelly provides a cooling sensation.
- Unique Texture: Grass jelly's chewy texture adds an interesting element to the dessert.
- Dessert Bar: A dedicated dessert bar allows you to focus on enjoying your treat.
13. Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎)
A savory omelette made with fresh oysters, starch, and spices. Taste it at Original Wen Chun Oyster Omelette (原巡原蚵仔煎) in Shilin District.
- Ultra-Fresh Ingredients: Locally sourced oysters ensure maximum freshness.
- Skilled Chefs: Experienced chefs prepare each dish with precision and care.
- Cozy Atmosphere: A casual, inviting environment perfect for a quick meal.
14. Shrimp and Pork Dumplings (鮮蝦肉餃)
Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with a savory shrimp and pork mixture. Sample them at Ding Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) in Xinyi District.
- Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients ensure exceptional taste.
- Consistent Quality: Known worldwide for its consistent quality and attention to detail.
- Modern Atmosphere: A sleek, contemporary setting that adds a modern twist to the traditional dish.
15. Soy Milk (豆漿)
A traditional Taiwanese drink made from soybeans and often served with tapioca pearls or deep-fried dough fritters. Sip it at Yong Kang Soy Milk (永康豆漿) in Wanhua District.
- Rich Taste: Thick and creamy, this soy milk offers a rich, satisfying flavor.
- Versatile Drink: Can be enjoyed hot or cold depending on your preference.
- Iconic Shop: A well-known soy milk shop that has been serving the community since 1958.