Food Reviews

Eating Your Way Through Taipei: Must-Try Food Stops from Din Tai Fung to Night Market Bites

Taipei is a food lover's paradise, buzzing with vibrant flavors, iconic eats and unforgettable culinary experiences. I had some of the most amazing and interesting food finds in this city. I didn’t realize how much I missed Taipei until I arrived. It’s been too long, and I’m so glad to be back. 

On my recent trip to Taiwan's capital, I dove into the heart of the city's food scene - from award-winning restaurants to bustling night market and beloved local tea shops. Here's a taste of my top must-try spots in Taipei. 


1. Din Tai Fung - The Dumpling Institution

No Taipei food journey is complete without a stop at Din Tai Fung. The Michelin-starred restaurant known for its meticulously crafted Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings). I visited the original location on Xinyi Road, where the wait was long but absolutely worth it. 
The dumplings arrived steaming hot, each pleated with precision. One bite, and you're met with rich, juicy, savory broth followed by tender pork. Be sure to try their other dumplings too and pair your meal with their famous cucumber appetizer and fried rice. 

Pro Tip: Go early or during off-peak hours to avoid the long wait.
Location: 277 Section 2, Xinyi Rd, Da'an District, Taipei 110, Taiwan 





2. 50 Lan - Bubble Tea at Its Best

Craving bubble tea? You can't visit Taiwan without sipping on a cup of 50 Lan (also known as 50 Tea), one of the country's most popular bubble tea chains, you will see them everywhere. I grabbed a classic oolong tea with half sugar, and it hit the spot with its perfect balance in sweetness, roasted tea, and chewy tapioca pearls. What sets 50 Lan apart is the customization - they let you tailor your drink just the way you like it. Whether it's oolong milk tea, jasmine green, or something fruitier, there's something for every tea lover. 



3. Ningxia Night Market - Street Food Heaven

To cap off a day of eating, I headed to Ningxia Night Market, one of Taipei's most beloved (and local-favorite) night markets. Though smaller than Shilin, it's packed with incredible street eats and less touristy charm. 

Here's what I tried:

  • Oyster Omelet - a gooey, savory classic with tangy sauce
  • Grilled squid on a stick - fresh, smoky, and topped with spicy powder
  • Peanut Ice Cream Roll - sweet peanut shavings and cilantro wrapped around creamy taro ice cream in a rice paper wrap. Strange sounding, but uniquely delicious

One of the standout discoveries during this trip was the oyster omelet - a gooey, savory classic that completely won me over. I’d heard about it before, but nothing quite prepared me for that first bite. Served hot off the griddle, the dish is a delicious mix of plump, briny oysters, soft scrambled egg, and a chewy, starchy batter made from sweet potato flour that gives it that signature texture - somewhere between a pancake and a mochi-like crepe. 

What really brings it all together is the tangy, slightly sweet red sauce drizzled generously over the top. It adds a perfect contrast to the richness of the eggs and the subtle ocean flavor of the oysters. The combination is surprisingly well-balanced: savory, slightly sweet, and satisfyingly sticky.

It’s one of those dishes that might raise eyebrows at first glance, but once you taste it, you get it. I’m so glad I gave it a try this time around - it’s an unforgettable part of Taipei’s night market magic, and definitely a must-try for anyone curious enough to go beyond the usual street food staples.

Of course, as always, my eyes were a little more ambitious than my stomach. Some food items I wish I had devoured (if only my tummy had a bit more space) - include the iconic stinky tofu and a flaky, golden spring onion pancake. Good thing I’ve tried stinky tofu before, so I already know what kind of funky, crispy, flavorful punch it packs. Still, part of me wishes I had made room for just one more bite. Next time, they’re at the top of my list.

Local Tip: Bring cash, arrive hungry, be adventurous, and be ready to queue - lines often mean the best food!
Location: No. 58, Ningxia Rd, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103


From upscale dumplings to slurp-worthy bubble tea and street food gems, Taipe's food scene is a mix of tradition, bold flavors and creative innovation. Whether you're navigating the bustling night markets for the first time or coming back to revisit your favorite bites, eating your way through this city is more than just a culinary adventure - it’s a deep dive into culture, community, and comfort. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning visitor, eating your way through Taipei is an experience you'll never forget. 
 

Sherra

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