Taipei Food Guide: Exploring Taiwan's Culinary Wonders

Taipei Food Guide: Exploring Taiwan's Culinary Wonders

Delicious seafood snacks at a Taiwan food market Delicious seafood snacks at a Taiwan food market

Are you a food-lover searching for your next unforgettable, taste-fuelled adventure? Taiwan’s Taipei is a city that truly caters to the culinary curious. Renowned as a foodie’s paradise, it boasts an astonishing variety of flavours, from sizzling Taiwanese street food at its iconic night markets to refined creations in its Michelin-starred restaurants. Taipei’s food culture is a rich tapestry woven from Taiwan’s history and diverse influences, where every dish of Taiwanese food tells a story of tradition meeting innovation.

But there’s more to Taipei than its mouthwatering cuisine. For those seeking a unique holiday off the beaten track, this city surprises with its natural retreats—like Beitou’s rejuvenating hot springs and Maokong’s tranquil mountain views. Combined with vibrant temples, modern skyscrapers, and a thriving cultural scene, Taipei is a destination that delights all the senses, especially your taste buds.

After our Senior Product Executive, Noemi, embarked on a tasty trip to this mouth-watering region, and she's here to explain why Taipei should top every food-enthusiast’s travel list.

Close up Bao Bing (Taiwanese shaved ice dessert) with assorted sweet toppings Close up Bao Bing (Taiwanese shaved ice dessert) with assorted sweet toppings

Discovering Taiwanese Cuisine: A Taste of Tradition

Rooted in the island’s vibrant history, Taiwan food reflects an exquisite harmony of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences, creating a culinary identity that’s truly one of a kind.

Taiwan’s cuisine is a journey through time, blending the indigenous peoples' reliance on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with Chinese traditions brought by early settlers, and the lasting impact of Japanese rule. This blend of flavours—from wild boar dishes to delicately crafted beef noodle soup—offers a culinary experience deeply rooted in Taiwan’s heritage.

Whether you’re enjoying the comforting warmth of beef noodle soup, Taiwan’s national dish, or indulging in xiao long bao, Taiwan’s food connects you to its past, while modern twists on tradition show the island’s dynamic future. Street food lovers can’t miss stinky tofu, a unique and bold dish that challenges the senses but rewards with unforgettable, savoury delights. For anyone visiting Taiwan, food is not just about eating—it’s about immersing yourself in the island’s rich culture.

"Whether you're sampling street food at bustling night markets or enjoying traditional meals in family-run establishments, Taiwan’s culinary landscape is a celebration of Taiwanese culture, history, and innovation that’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression."
Beef noodle soup, Chinese Taiwanese cuisine Beef noodle soup, Chinese Taiwanese cuisine

The Best of Taipei Food: Local Specialties You Can’t Miss

Taipei’s vibrant food scene takes Taiwanese cuisine to new heights, offering dishes that are both iconic and unique to the city. Don’t miss staples like braised pork rice, a hearty and delectable comfort food beloved by locals, or mango shaved ice, a refreshing dessert perfect for hot days. Pineapple cakes, a sweet treat with a rich buttery crust and tangy filling, make for the ideal souvenir or snack in between meals.

"I love that this city seamlessly blends traditional flavours with modern twists. It's seen in creative reinterpretations of classic dishes at trendy eateries from Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gems tucked away in bustling alleys. Taipei is a haven for those seeking authentic yet innovative Taiwanese food experiences, like myself!"
Famous Shilin night market in Taipei Famous Shilin night market in Taipei

Exploring Taipei’s Vibrant Street Food Scene

Do you want a true taste of Taiwanese food culture? Try the delicious food and immerse in the bustling atmosphere of the iconic street markets of Taipei. Renowned worldwide, Taipei offers a mouthwatering array of must-try treats like flaky scallion pancakes, steamed rice with sweet soy sauce, iconic bubble tea (or pearl milk tea), Taiwanese beef noodle soup and irresistibly deep-fried chicken. Adding a premium twist, several street food vendors have earned Michelin recognition, showcasing the city’s ability to blend tradition with gourmet excellence.

"I'll never forget wandering through vibrant strips of the capital city, brimming with an amalgamation of spicy, sweet and salty aromas."

Night Markets: The Heart of Taiwan’s Food Culture

One of the best aspects of Taipei’s food scene is the accessibility of Michelin-level quality, even in its bustling night markets. These markets offer a chance to taste exceptional dishes at affordable prices, with some earning Michelin recognition for their culinary excellence.

Ningxia Night Market blends classic Taiwanese recipes with inventive twists, making it a perfect place to enjoy diverse tastes without breaking the bank. Don't miss the bao bing, a Taiwanese shaved ice dessert topped with fruits, sweet beans, and syrups—a must-try for a cool, satisfying end to your food adventure.

"For just £12, I indulged in a delightful culinary experience at Ningxia Night Market, sampling three savoury meat dishes that showcased the rich notes of modern Taiwanese cuisine, all washed down with a refreshing local drink. This affordable feast allowed me to taste the essence of Taipei's vibrant street food scene."

Another iconic stop is Raohe Night Market, where several stalls have earned Michelin recognition. Among the highlights are the famous Fuzhou Pepper Buns and rich pork rib soup, both essential dishes for food lovers exploring Taipei’s vibrant street food culture. Whether it's sweet potato balls, grilled squid, a Taiwanese hamburger or other delights, Taipei’s night markets offer a culinary experience like no other.

Peking Duck Food Peking Duck Food

Michelin-Starred and Famous Food in Taipei

Beyond its vibrant night markets, Taipei is home to a number of Michelin Guide-recognised restaurants, where elevated dishes offer a taste of authentic Taiwanese cuisine without the extravagant price tag.

Du Hsiao Yueh

Du Hsiao Yueh is a historic culinary gem with over a century of tradition. It is renowned for its signature dish, dan zai noodles, which offer a simple yet delightful combination of noodles in a light broth, topped with minced pork, shrimp, and a splash of soy sauce. As a Michelin Guide restaurant, Du Hsiao Yueh delivers a rich blend of history and flavour in every bite.

Shin Yeh

Shin Yeh, a restaurant featured in the Michelin Guide, has been perfecting Taiwanese cuisine since the 1970s. Renowned for its refined interpretations of local classics, the pan-fried radish cake is a must-try dish. The restaurant emphasises fresh, local ingredients, providing a homestyle dining experience with an elevated twist.

Fu Shun Lou

For a more relaxed dining experience, the Beitou Branch of Fu Shun Lou is the perfect place to visit. Although it is not listed in the Michelin Guide, its renowned Peking duck, with its crispy skin and tender meat, is a standout feature that showcases the best of Chinese culinary tradition.

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung is an essential mention when discussing Taipei's culinary scene. Renowned globally for its xiao long bao (soup dumplings), this Michelin-starred restaurant is a symbol of excellence in dining. Each dumpling is carefully crafted and filled with hot, rich broth, making it a worldwide sensation.

Tian Xia San Jue

Tian Xia San Jue, a Michelin Guide restaurant, is famous for its hearty beef noodle soup. The dish features a variety of beef cuts simmered in a flavourful broth, providing both quality and value in a luxurious yet inviting setting.

"From Michelin-starred favourites to local treasures, I've found that Taipei’s culinary scene promises a feast for every taste."
homemade taiwanese danzai noodle soup homemade taiwanese danzai noodle soup

Best Food in Taiwan Awaits in Taipei: Explore with Regent

Experience the beauty and culinary scene of Taiwan and Taipei with our meticulously curated tours, made specially for you. Discover some of our favourite Taiwan tours, where you can experience the Taiwanese food history and culture through the recipes and bustling street food:

Taiwan Explorer Group Tour | 9-Day Adventure & Cultural Journey

Taipei & Beyond: 9-Day Taiwan Tour from £3275 | Culture & Nature

Taiwan architecture Taiwan architecture

More in Taipei city: Beyond the Food in Taiwan

Surpassing the tempting wonders of Taiwanese dishes, Taipei offers plenty of experiences that make it a memorable place to explore. The Beitou Hot Springs are a relaxing escape right within city limits, where you can soak in natural hot spring baths surrounded by green mountains. Just a short drive from central Taipei, MaoKong is another surprising spot where you can enjoy fresh air and scenic tea farms with views over the city.

"Be sure to stop at Taipei 101, one of my favourite places in the city which gives you panoramic views from one of the world’s tallest buildings. For a look into Taipei’s history and spiritual side, the Longshan Temple offers a glimpse into the city’s rich Buddhist and Taoist traditions, with intricate architecture and a vibrant atmosphere!"
Traditional Taiwanese food Traditional Taiwanese food

FAQ: Your Questions About Food in Taipei Answered

What is the traditional Taiwanese food?

Traditional Taiwanese food is known for its diverse flavours, blending Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences. Popular dishes include beef noodle soup, xiao long bao (soup dumplings), stinky tofu, and braised pork rice. Taiwanese cuisine is characterised by its fresh ingredients and balance of sweet, savoury, and spicy notes.

How is Taiwanese food different from Chinese?

While both Taiwanese and Chinese cuisines share many roots, Taiwanese food tends to focus on lighter and fresh ingredients, plus a variety of seafood. Taiwanese food also incorporates influences from Japan and indigenous cultures, making it more diverse and often milder in taste compared to some regional Chinese dishes.

What is the national dish of Taiwan?

The national dish of Taiwan is often considered to be beef noodle soup. This hearty dish features tender beef, noodles, and a rich broth, usually infused with soy sauce, garlic, and Chinese herbs. It’s a beloved comfort food that can be found in nearly every corner of the island.

Which street food is Taiwan known for?

You'll find many night markets and street markets in Taiwan. Must-try street foods include lu rou fan (braised pork rice) bubble tea, scallion pancakes, fried chicken cutlets, mango shaved ice, and stinky tofu. These snacks provide a snapshot of the island’s rich culinary culture, including both traditional and modern twists on classic dishes.

Is two days in Taipei enough?

While two days in Taipei can give you a taste of the city, it’s ideal to have a few extra days to fully immerse yourself in its food culture and attractions. In two days, you can explore key markets, try iconic dishes, and see some of Taipei’s top landmarks, but to dive deeper into its culinary offerings, more time is recommended.

How many Michelin 3 star restaurants are there in Taiwan?

As of 2024, Taiwan boasts two Michelin three-star restaurants. These prestigious awards reflect the high quality and innovative nature of Taiwanese cuisine, with these restaurants offering an elevated culinary experience, including unique dishes that blend traditional Taiwanese cuisine with cutting-edge techniques.

Want to take your tastebuds on the Taiwanese adventure of a lifetime?

Speak to one of our experienced Travel Specialists today to get a flavour of what you can enjoy over in Taipei.

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