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
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.
Blame it to the holiday rush and the contagious "busy" ambiance around, this last post on the Taipei Experience came way too late as promised. Anyhow, as they say it, better late than never.Shopping is one thing that Taiwanese's heart to do. A living proof to that is the enormous number of shopping malls and traditional markets found in the country. In Taipei, the most popular, biggest and most varied is the - Shilin Night Market. It is Taipei's premier night market that lures crowds (massive on weekends) with affordable eats and great bargains. Think of shopping and eating at the same time! Clothing, shoes, accessories, leather goods and other bric a bracs, name it they have it! It is common to find stuffs priced at NT$100. But bargains such as these including those tagged with a specific price are hardly negotiable (take it or leave it). If you're on a budget and have a long "pasalubong" (gift) list, this is the place to be!
How to get there: Take MRT Danshui (red) Line and exit to the Jiantan Station. The market is just a short walk away. If you want to try the Toilet Restaurant, there's a branch within this area.The newest, fashionable shopping mall built in Taipei, is the Breeze Center. It is located in Sec. 1, Fuxing Rd., 5 minutes walk from the intersection of Civic Blvd. and Fuxing South Road. It is a high end mall where international brands are abundant. This is where Taipei's Fashionistas shop. Do check the ladies room in this mall, simply amazing! The ambiance looked more of a hotel room rather than a comfort room. There's even a big flat screen TV inside the CR that shows episodes of Fashion TV. How else fashionable can it get!? What I personally liked in this mall, is the food court at the basement area. You'll feast on real good tasting, affordable meals. By the way, I noticed that it's dominated by Japanese Food Stalls. It is here where I tasted a very affordable, authentic Udon Noodles. I can't help but wished that the same food selection be offered in our own shopping malls in the Philippines. Great food, superb ambiance at a reasonable price!
Very near to our hotel is Taipei's most popular department store - SOGO. It is conveniently located near an MRT station (both the old and the new one; Zhongshiao Rd.). I was a bit surprised when I learned that this mall has 13 floors to roam around. Whew! However, if it's not sale season, things are a bit pricey here. Thus, if you would like to stick to your budget, go to the night market instead.
At the basement of Taipei's landmark (Taipei 101) is a shopping mall. There are 5 levels that house plenty of upscale boutiques and bookstore (Page One). There's a good toy shop as well. If you're in search of great international brands, hop on to this elegant mall.
High volume and low cost is the mantra at this next shopping area. WufenPu, is Taipei's version of Bangkok's Pratunam. The entire place is filled with narrow alleys showcasing diverse, fashionable garments and leather goods. Great bargains are offered for wholesale purchases.
Another cheaper alternative for shopping is the Underground Mall. Some subway stations have shops underground that sell various items at relatively lower prices compared to ordinary shopping malls. We found a store that sells shoes for NT$200 only, really good deal!
If you're looking for electronic or computer goods, Guanghua Computer Market is the must visit place. You'll find great deals of all things related to computer. If you're lucky, you'll even get freebies from your purchases. It would be better to compare prices from different stores to be able to get the best deal.
In Taipei, where you will do your shopping is certainly not a problem. It will be your capacity to spend and your energy to use up with, that will dictate your shopping mileage. 
Whenever we travel to a different place, the leading question that comes to our mind is where specifically should we go? More often than not, we battle through the process of budgeting our time to the most interesting and significant sights. Particularly, if we have very limited time to spend (like in this trip) we can only afford to prioritize the "must see" landmarks and attractions. Thus, a little research and a DIY Travel Guide made our sight seeing in Taipei (although limited), packed with amazing discoveries. What else will top the Taiwan must visit list other than TAIPEI 101?! As they say it, you've never been to Taiwan if you never set foot on this towering landmark. Pending the completion of Burj Dubai, it is still the World's tallest building to date. Given that this breathtaking Skyscraper was built by a country as small as Taiwan, to say that this has been a remarkable achievement by the Taiwanese is still an understatement. Taipei 101 epitomizes the vigour and intellect of Taiwanese expertise. Truly deserving of world's recognition and a traveller's respect. The first time my eyes laid on it, I was seized in absolute awe! Further, when I got inside, the marvel and grandeur of its beauty made me astounded! It's as if the city found a powerful yet elegant shield.
Taipei 101 is located at the Xinyi District (45 Shihfu Rd., Taipei). It can be accessed through either taxi, bus or MRT. It's open from 1100 hrs to 2130 hrs on Sunday - Thursday and from 1000 hrs to 2200 hrs on Friday, Saturday and Holidays. A scenic view of the entire city can be seen from the indoor (89th floor) and outdoor (91st floor) observation decks. The elevator guarantees to bring the visitors up to these levels within 37 seconds, earning another official record of "fastest ascending elevator speed". The best time to visit this edifice is in the afternoon (around 4 pm) where you can enjoy the beauty of both day and night scenes of the city. To experience all these, there's a corresponding fee of NT$ 350 (P465) for adults and NT$ 320 (P425) for kids.
The next must see landmark is the Memorial Hall of Taiwan's great political ruler Chang Kai Shek. It's now known as the National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall. The big monument for the former president is situated in a wide, agreeably well landscaped courtyard. Since it's nearing winter time, the cool breeze and serene ambiance set the mood for lazing around.
The Chinese Garden with a nice Koi Pond inside the Park, is another spot to idle away at. It's so picturesque here! There's even a vending machine for feeds near the pond for those who would like to feed the Koi Fish. (That's Taiwan's animal welfare for you!)
To be found on the North and South parts of Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall are the National Theater and the National Concert Hall respectively. These two stunning architectures are hosts to all forms of Taiwanese entertainment. I was simply amazed by the intricacy of their design and framework. Inside the National Theater are Art Cafe & Auditorium, Buffet Restaurant, Silver Works and Bookstore.
Another equally interesting and historically rich landmark of Taiwan is the National Palace Museum. It's home to the largest collection of highly valued Chinese artifacts. Known as the pride of Taiwan, it's unfortunate we didn't have enough time to visit this magnificent museum. Nonetheless, everyone in Taiwan recommends this one of a kind site. If you want to be brought back in time during the Chinese Dynasties, save time for this one. Other than that, Taiwan is also known for comforting "hot springs". Although most are located on the outskirts of Taipei and remaining provinces, it's not difficult to find a restful one within or near the city. If you want to be relaxed, dip into one of Taiwan's natural bathhouses.
Given these choices, rightly, no country is too small to explore.
Given these choices, rightly, no country is too small to explore.
Taipei being an industrialized city is fast becoming a favorite host to International Trade Fairs. One of the most popular and largely attended by locals is the one held last Nov 23 - 26, 2007 at the World Trade Center. The 4-day Food Event was divided into three categories: 1) Taiwan International Chain Stores Fair, 2) Taipei Tea, Coffee & Wine Expo and 3) Taiwan International Food & Equipment Show. The Food Show presented the vastness and richness of the competitive Taiwan Market. As exemplified by the massive groups of consumers that flocked the event, Food is indeed one of Taiwanese's most prolific industries. Consequently, the event did not fail its local consumers with the enormous food choices and experiences it offered. But for foreigners like us, there are really not much to appreciate (or perhaps it just didn't meet some of our objectives for visiting the fair). Generally, it's all about imported goods intended for the end-consumers of Taiwan. What's more, languange is a limitation since very few can understand and speak english. Essentially though, a peek of what's inside the Taiwan Food Market is still an inspiring know-what and know-how. The Taiwan International Chain Stores for instance, showcased the emerging players in the segment but not limited to foods alone. However, still the apparent giants are 7-eleven and McDonalds.
Health and wellness is the name of the competition. A lot of products promoting health and vitality are very visible and popular. Replenish.., refresh.., restore.., re-young! These are becoming the mantra in this country.
In the Tea, Coffee and Wine Hall, you will feast on the delightful taste and aroma of warming beverages. Most Teas present in the trade fair were produced in Taiwan, Japan and China. Coffee products on the other hand, were made from Europe (Italy, Germany), America(Columbia, Honduras, etc.) and Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia). Green Tea is largely seen as more popular than Black or Oolong Tea. By the way, Tea here is elevated into a higher level. Promoting it doesn't stop from merely providing an appealing taste and aroma. From the finest tea cups to the right choice of concoctions, everything must be delicately taken cared of. From a visitor's point of view, it's like being transported to a homey tea house with the ambiance of natural tea landscapes. It's having a "complete tea experience" that exhibitors are trying to communicate. It is a culture that is worthy to share. Suffice it to say, most tea products came in natural, dried leaves form. Instant, powdered type is hardly visible. Likewise, it's more for end-user consumption rather than for further commercial processing. On Coffee trends, increasingly being well liked is the one with "no raw sugar" claim (2 in 1). Taste is strong and bold. It's under the brand name CAFE 21 made in Malaysia.
Among the few that offered commercial tea products for instant consumption is the KING KUNG HEALTH FOOD CO., LTD. They claim to have nutritional at the same time good tasting tea drinks. Some of the products we sampled which we found true to their claims were smoked plum soup, brown rice tea, ginger tea, burdock tea, taro coconut milk, maple syrup milk tea and ten grain nutritional tea.
Other products we also found promising when made available in an up and coming health and wellness driven market like the Philippines, are these Herbal Crackers and Vital Balance Biscuits. We noticed their high acceptability among Taiwanese. It only proved then that taste and health can complement each other in a finished product.
It's also interesting to find a drink that is made to be consumed at a "specified" time. Don't you find this 3:15 PM Milk Tea very intriguing (photo above)? I wonder what's in the 3:15 PM that you'll feel the need for a cup of milk tea? To ease some accumulated stress perhaps? At any rate, what is important to note is that products are becoming very specific and tailored-fit nowadays. Food manufacturers are getting into the "lifestyle" of the consumers and providing solutions to their needs.
Generally, the notable food items in Taiwan International Food and Equipment show are dried fruits (like plum and berries), dried seaweeds (which Taiwanese normally use as side dish in every meal occasion), dried shrimps, herbal teas for cooking, dimsum products, ice cream with innovative flavors (e.g. tiramisu), biscuits and bakery products, chocolate and confectioneries and some food cart favorites (such as fried corn on the cob, fried dumplings, etc.). Food processing equipment on the other hand, is largely on coffee and tea making, fruit extracts making and dimsum manufacturing. All in all, it was a visit worth of interesting Taiwanese food trends. Taiwan left a legitimate mark of being that Asian Neighbor who owns a booming vessel of consumer goods. A country of foodies willing to spend more for good food. Thus, Food is a money-spinning business to penetrate here. The considerable number of exhibitors in the trade show is a good proof of this claim. By and large, it's for the same reason that competition among manufacturers is getting more and more stiff and challenging.
It's my first time to visit one of Asia's bustling cities, TAIPEI. Although the trip was ultimately work related, it still gave me a chance to explore some of the city's wonders. In 4 days, the city left a remarkable impression in me. It was indeed an unforgettable taste of a Taiwanese life! There are so much to share and blog about. It's an experience filled with historical discoveries, real surprises and distinctive adventures. With that, this all about Taipei Post will be divided into 4 parts:
Part 1 - Good Eats in Taipei
Part 2 - Taiwan International Food Show
Part 3 - Going Around Taipei: The Must See
Part 4 - Shopping in Taipei
For now I'll let you have a taste of the first installment, the delightful Taiwanese Cuisine and the good eats Taipei can offer. In the entire duration of the trip, there was no meal occasion that my colleague and I did not enjoy. Every food that got into our palate deserved a pleasing nod or that popular Japanese sensory gesture, OISHI (masarap, delicious)! I've read from one Taiwanese Blog, that food courts in Taipei have great food finds as well. So off in our first day, we tried the FOOD COURT Cuisine. Opportunely, my first official food in Taipei did not fail me. It's a typical Chinese Bento Box that's affordable, filling and tasty (photo below). What a good way to welcome a Pinoy Tourist! Further I came to know that indeed Food Court Meals in Taipei are not mere so so. Some are treasures underground.
Chinese Bento - NT$135 (P180)
Dumpling Noodles - NT$110 (P146); Generally, clean, non-descript soup. This noodle soup showed us how good the texture of the noodles in Taiwan can be. Firm but enjoyably chewy.
Most Food Courts in Taipei boast of an enormous selection of baked goods. In Sogo Department Store for instance, you would feast on the inviting showcase and aroma of sumptuous cakes, pastries, cookies and a lot more. Just a mere peek from the chiller will make you salivate already. What's more interesting is the design of the cakes. Oh, I love to have a slice of this so cute Hello Kitty Cakes! But a part of me also wants to keep it whole for the sheer delight of its beauty.
Just like in Japan, LUNCH BOX is also popular here. A complete meal usually comes in attractive paper box. What's important to note, is that the food packed inside is equally appetizing as the design of the box outside. Although not visually clear from the photo, the print on this box states delicious, healthy, fresh, natural! This gained Taipei an initial thumbs up from me. How I wish, the Philippines will slowly veer away from using styro and plastics. It's but high time for us to be more eco-friendly similar to what our neighboring countries are doing.
What's a food trip in Taipei without dropping by at the famous DIN TAI FUNG?! This Dimsum Restaurant has its own share of media hype and travel raves. Thus, I must not leave Taipei without trying its food and discovering its secrets myself. Luckily, one of their branches is near our hotel (Fuxing). So we made one of our nights, a Din Tai Fung Night. To maximize this great dimsum experience, we tried some of the finests in their menu - Steamed Pork Dumplings, Steamed Vegetables and Pork Dumplings and Braised Beef Noodles. I must admit that the dinner proved the restaurant's worth on all the claims and highly rated food reviews. The steamed pork dumplings alone is second to none. I haven't tried anything like it before. There's this characteristic flavor that the soup gives together with the overall succulent bite that lingers through your palate. It's a complete dimsum experience in all its authenticity.
Steamed Pork Dumplings (a natural winner, already good as is)
Steamed Vegetables and Pork Dumplings (another must try, chunky and juicy, best when dipped in soy-vinegar)
Braised Beef Noodles (a little spicy, quite fatty but juicy, flavoursome, worthy enough to be in Din Tai Fung's Finest Cuisine list)
There are two things Taiwanese love to do: shopping and eating. With no surprise, I lost count on how many night markets and shopping malls can be found in Taipei alone. Most Taiwanese flock to the Market not only to shop but more importantly to find great foods as well. Thus, it's not difficult to replenish that much needed energy whenever you do your shopping. Among the NIGHT MARKETS, the largest and the most popular in Taipei is the Shilin Night Market. There's a separate hall in this area that is largely dedicated for foods. The alleys can be easily filled with hungry mouths to feed, be it locals or wandering tourists. Different smells migrate from one corner to another, from one food stall to the next. Simply astonishing!
Outside the hall, there are people showing placards to sell foods. Isn't that a sample of Taiwanese's hard selling technique?
Another first that I saw in Shilin Night Market, is this Fruit Cart selling grilled and sugar glazed strawberries and cherry tomatoes. The fruits' inherent sweet and pleasant aroma is enough reason already to stop by at this cart.
We were also blessed to be invited by an industry colleague to partake in a traditional Taiwanese Dinner. This occasion introduced me to the authentic TAIWANESE CUISINE. Generally, I noticed that Taiwanese Cuisine is abundant in seafoods and vegetables. In particular, seaweeds, tofu and fish. Suffice it to say, the world renowned national dish is called "stinky tofu". Although taiwanese cuisine is a product of many influences, basically it's a steaming pot of delicious flavor notes.To add more zest to this dining experience, we did not resist trying their traditional drinks as well, the Taiwan Beer and the Plum Juice. However, since I have very limited alcohol threshold, I can hardly say how different their beer was against ours. For the Plum Juice, I gave it a score of 5 out of 5. According to the Taiwanese, this is best consumed after drinking a beer. Probably because it's refreshing and the juicy, sweet and sour characters of the plum juice wash out some bitter notes left by the alcohol. As for me, it's sufficient to replace water on that dinner occasion.
From our bountiful table, we feast on the following dishes...
From our bountiful table, we feast on the following dishes...
Steamed Native Chicken with Chili Sauce, taste is similar to our very own native chicken. Because it's believed to be flavorful, there's not much spices or flavourings added into it. It's plain salt that I noted. Fatty, juicy and a little tough in texture.
Sesame Noodles, comparable to our local Misua only the noodle strand is slightly thicker and more firm. This is tasty! A second serving is almost necessary.
Vegetables with some Internal Parts of Chicken, sauted and saucy.
Oysters with Tofu, another flavorful dish. This is really lip-smacking!. The spicy note and the coriander gave an exciting kick to its overall acceptance.
Bamboo Shoots cooked the Bulalo (BoneMarrow) way, another winning dish in itself. The bamboo shoots is cooked just right, tender in bite and served in interesting cut size.
Steamed Fish, this is a typical chinese way of cooking a fish. Very clean in taste, soft and succulent.
Stinky Tofu (cooked in soup), this is just another way of cooking the stinky tofu. It can also be barbequed or fried (normally sold in night markets or streets). When the tofu is cooked in soup, the stinky smell is somehow lessened. This one, I can consume without closing my nose. Though the stinky smell is overpowering, you can hardly taste the off note. Without that differentiating smell, it's the same tofu dish we have in the Philippines.
Beef Hot Pot, although it's not too visible from the picture, the beef and vegetables here were blackened. The soup is warming and tastes like "sibut" (chinese herbs). Also acceptable, only the black vegetables and meat are a bit different (bizarre).
These are Shaved Ice flavored with Ice Cream and toppings placed in a ceramic, "bed pan" inspired serving dish. This is Taiwan's version of their Halo-Halo. But ours is still a lot better. The photo above is Strawberry Flavor, below is Chocolate. Both generously topped with sweet biscuits, raisins, cereals, red beans, chocolate bits, wafer sticks, mongo beans, marshmallows and other fruits. Did the shape of the soft served Ice Cream remind you of something?
With only limited time for such a wealthy culinary haven that is Taipei, I'm already thankful for a slice of a superb Taiwanese Cuisine.
With only limited time for such a wealthy culinary haven that is Taipei, I'm already thankful for a slice of a superb Taiwanese Cuisine. (watch out for the other 3 installments related to this post...)
