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. 

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

What Worked: The Pasta and Salad

Let’s start with the positives. The pasta was genuinely good - beautifully cooked, with well-balanced sauces that showcased the kind of finesse you’d expect from a restaurant of this caliber. Another standout was the Caesar salad, which might sound simple, but here it was executed to near perfection: crisp, fresh, and packed with flavor without being overpowering. It’s one of those dishes you don’t expect to remember, yet it lingered for all the right reasons.

What Didn't: The Pizza and Desserts

On the other hand, the pizza left much to be desired. It wasn’t bad by any means, but it lacked the wow factor - something you’d expect from a place that prides itself on culinary artistry. In fact, there are several other Italian spots in town that do pizza better, both in terms of crust and overall flavor.

The biggest disappointment, however, was the dessert. We ordered what were recommended as best-sellers, hoping to end the meal on a high note. Instead, they felt uninspired and underwhelming - a letdown that’s hard to ignore, especially given how much thought usually goes into finishing a meal strong at a high-end restaurant. The Sticky Toffee Pudding was surprisingly dry - missing the rich, moist decadence that makes the dish a crowd favorite elsewhere. The Devil’s Food Cake also failed to impress, with an ordinary texture and none of the deep, indulgent chocolate intensity the name promises. I expected the Devil’s Food Cake to be a showstopper - rich, indulgent, and deeply chocolatey. Unfortunately, it turned out to be one of the biggest disappointments of the evening. The cake was overtly bitter, lacking the lush, velvety sweetness you’d normally associate with a well-executed chocolate dessert.

Instead of that satisfying balance between deep cocoa flavor and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, this version leaned too far into sharp bitterness - without the creaminess or complexity to round it out. What should have been a decadent end to the meal felt more like an unpolished attempt at sophistication, missing the mark entirely. For a restaurant of this caliber, these were shockingly underwhelming finishes. 

The Price vs The Experience

With premium pricing comes a certain level of expectation - not just for quality food, but for an overall experience that feels worth it. Unfortunately, Osteria Mozza didn’t quite deliver on that front. While there were moments of enjoyment, they weren’t consistent enough to justify the cost. For what we spent, I expected more across the board: more memorable flavors, more consistency, and frankly, more value.

Would I return? Honestly, not likely. With so many excellent Italian dining options out there - many of which are more affordable and more consistent - Osteria Mozza feels like a splurge that doesn’t quite earn its price tag. It’s a shame, given the reputation and pedigree behind it. Here’s hoping it was just an off night, but for now, I won’t be coming back for a second round.

If there's one thing that's hard to resist, it's a dessert that dares to be different - and Chewy Junior definitely ticks the box. Somewhere between a cream puff and a donut-mochi like texture, these chewy little pastries offer a one-of-a-kind snacking experience that's as fun to eat as it is to look at. 

The first thing that hits you is how cute and colorful they are. Each puff is slightly golden, beautifully topped with shiny glazes, whipped cream, chocolate drizzles, nuts, or chocolate chips and sprinkles. They're not too big nor too small - just the right size to satisfy a craving without going into sugar overload. 

Texture Talk: The "Chewy" in Chewy Junior

So, what makes them special? The texture. It's not quite a donut and not quite the ordinary cream puff either. Instead, it's this unique, bouncy choux pastry that feels almost mochi-like. When you bite in, there's a crispy crunch on the outside followed by a satisfyingly chewy center. It's unexpected - but in the best way. 

Flavor Adventures: 

One of the exciting things about Chewy Junior is the sheer variety of cream puff flavors available ranging from classic strawberry and cream to bold matcha, rich chocolate, and even seasonal or local specialties. There’s truly something for every palate. With so many unique flavors to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one! It makes every visit feel like a new experience. Chewy Junior prides itself on offering over 30 different flavors of cream puffs, making it a true haven for dessert lovers. Whether you’re into classic choices or more adventurous picks, there’s always something new to try. This wide variety not only keeps things exciting but also makes Chewy Junior perfect for group sharing or repeat visits - there’s always a new favorite waiting to be discovered. When it comes to the cream filling, it's generous without being overwhelming. 

Final Thoughts:

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as many locals still call it, is a place that never stops surprising you. The energy here is infectious - the streets constantly hum with the sounds of scooters zipping by, the smell of street food wafting through the air, and the tantalizing offerings of countless eateries. As someone who's spent a lot of time exploring the city, I've come to appreciate the way Ho Chi Minh City blends old and new, local and global, in its food scene. From hole-in-the-wall spots to chic rooftop lounges, the city is brimming with dining experiences that you'll want to savor. Here's a curated list of some of my favorite places that truly capture the essence of this vibrant city. 

When it comes to croissants, there's nothing quite like the ones from Lune Croissanterie. Considered by many to be the best in Melbourne - if not the world - Lune has redefined what a perfect croissant is. But does it really deserve its fame? I recently had the chance to try it for myself (the second time around), and here's my verdict. 

Japan's Sweetest Secret: I'm Donut? - Is the treat you didn't know you needed! The softest, dreamiest donuts you'll ever try - no exaggeration. 

Gelato Messina, Australia's iconic gelato brand, has officially opened its first Singapore outlet, delighting local dessert enthusiasts with its signature handcrafted gelato and innovative flavors.

The new store, located in Club Street, features the brand’s signature minimalist interiors with an open kitchen concept that lets visitors watch the gelato-making magic happen. From the very first day, long lines stretched outside the store as curious patrons flocked in to get their first taste. 

• Kaya Toast - a nostalgic nod to the iconic breakfast staple, complete with toasted bread chunks and sweet kaya swirls.
• Singapore, How Are You Durian? - bold, creamy and unapologetically Southeast Asian.
• Tau Huay - silky smooth soy pudding reimagined in gelato form. 
• Teh Tarik - the classic pulled milk tea turned into a rich, malty dessert. 
• Ondeh-Ondeh - inspired by the traditional glutinous rice ball, this flavor features pandan-infused gelato with bursts of gula melaka and grated coconut 
• Yolk's On You - a cheeky salted egg-based creation with gula melaka caramel

Prices start at $7.50 for a single scoop, $10 for two scoops, and $12 for three scoops - with portions that are generous and full of flavor. And if you can’t get enough (like us), grab a take-home tub -available in various sizes, so you can enjoy your favorites anytime.

 Jeonju, South Korea - where tradition meets taste, and time slows down. 

When most people dream of South Korea, they picture Seoul’s skyline or Busan’s beaches. But tucked away in the southwest lies Jeonju—a city that quietly steals hearts with its heritage, flavors, and warm authenticity. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience. Here's why Jeonju should be on every traveler's bucket list.

Jeonju Hanok Village: A Walk-Through History

What makes it special:

What to do:

• Rent a hanbok and stroll the lanes
• Visit Gyeonggijeon Shrine
• Climb to Omokdae Pavilion for views over the rooftops

Photo Tip: Capture the village from a high vantage point in hanbok during golden hour, or snap close-ups of intricate Hanok rooftops.

Bibimbap at Its Best

Jeonju is the birthplace of bibimbap, and no, it’s not just hype. The flavors here are deeper, the ingredients fresher, and the presentation—pure art.

We went to the famous Han Kook Jib. A family-run restaurant since 1952. The restaurant is celebrated for its bibimbap made with a special hot pepper paste crafted from sea salt sourced from Gomso. This unique ingredient imparts a distinct flavor to their bibimbap, which has been enjoyed by locals and celebrities alike.

Don’t miss:

• Han Kook Jib: a famed spot for traditional bibimbap
• Nambu Market at night for street-food style versions
• Makgeolli Alley for local rice wine and side dishes

Photo Tip: Top-down shot of a sizzling hot stone bibimbap bowl with colorful toppings.

Arts, Crafts & Culture

Jeonju is a city for creators. From Hanji (Korean paper) workshops to calligraphy, pottery, and indie art spaces, it’s rich in hands-on tradition and contemporary expression.

What to explore:

• Jeonju Crafts Exhibition Hall
• Jeonju Hanji Museum
• Jeondong Catholic Cathedral
• Small galleries and murals near Jaman Mural Village

Photo Tip: Snap handmade crafts, artists at work, or a vibrant mural wall.

The Vibe: Calm, Connected, and Soulful

While Seoul buzzes, Jeonju breathes. It’s a place where time feels like it pauses—perfect for meaningful travel.

Why it stands out:

• Slower pace, ideal for deep travel
• Friendly locals proud of their culture
• A beautiful blend of everyday life and heritage

Photo Tip: Candid moments: locals chatting in Hanok alleys, tea being poured slowly, or a traveler journaling in a Hanok stay.

Lots of foods to try!

Jeonju may not have the skyscrapers or beaches, but what it does have is an unparalleled culture. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress you... and ends up being completely unforgettable. Jeonju is a place where every street, every dish, and every corner tells a story. Whether you’re savoring the world-famous bibimbap, exploring the picturesque Hanok village, or indulging in a sweet Choco pie, Jeonju invites you to slow down and truly appreciate the beauty of Korean tradition and modern flair.

Travel Tips

How to get there:

From Seoul:

    KTX high-speed train (approx. 1.5–2 hours)

    Intercity bus (around 3 hours)

Where to stay:

• Hanok Guesthouses: Try Saekdongjeogori Guesthouse or Hanok Hyeyum
• Modern Hotels: Ramada Jeonju offers great comfort and location

Best time to visit: April–May (spring blossoms) or October–November (autumn colors). It's magical in winter too (the time of our visit).