East Coast, Taiwan
Wild boar is a common meat, with preparation methods including stone grilling, steaming in leaves, or unique fermentation techniques, reflecting a deep connection to the land. Hakka and Hokkien influences bring classic Taiwanese dishes, including various noodle and rice preparations, savory soups, and stir-fries. These traditions contribute to the common street food and local eatery offerings.
Taitung is especially famous for its premium Chishang rice, known for its fragrant aroma and pleasing texture. Rice accompanies most meals. With its extensive Pacific coastline, Taitung has an abundance of fresh seafood. Coastal towns like Chenggong and Fugang are renowned for their daily catches, which include various fish, prawns, squid, and shellfish. The fertile lands yield a variety of fruits, especially pineapples, sweet and creamy custard apples (shijia), and tart passion fruit. Sweet potatoes appear in various forms, from roasted snacks to ingredients in desserts.
Expect an emphasis on incredibly fresh seafood, often simply prepared to highlight its natural flavor. Chenggong and Fugang are ports for seafood.
These areas are known for their rice-based dishes and locally grown teas. The fertile plains support a more agricultural-focused cuisine.
Breakfast often happens early (7:00-9:00 AM). Lunch is generally 12:00-2:00 PM. Dinner is served 6:00-9:00 PM. Night markets are popular for dinner and late-night snacks.
This dish features glutinous rice mixed with taro or other fillings, often including seasoned pork or vegetables. It is wrapped in traditional leaves (like wild ginger lily or banana leaves) and steamed, giving it an unique aroma and taste.
A local breakfast or lunch staple. These are thick, chewy rice noodles served in a savory broth, usually topped with minced pork, small shrimp, preserved vegetables, and often a sprinkle of crispy shallots.
Find it: Many local eateries in Taitung City.
A famous local eatery in Taitung City holds renown for this hearty soup. It features cubes of coagulated pig blood (with a soft, gelatinous texture), often with pork intestines and a savory broth.
Find it: The specific local eatery for this soup also serves other traditional Taiwanese dishes.
The Taitung Night Market (正氣路觀光夜市) is the best place to sample a wide array of street food. Explore stalls offering Stinky Tofu (a famous fermented tofu, often deep-fried with pickled cabbage), various skewers (meat, seafood, vegetables), crispy and flavorful fried chicken, fresh juices, fruit smoothies, and other classic Taiwanese night market snacks.
Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶): Taiwan's iconic drink, available everywhere. Try different flavors and toppings. Taiwanese Beer: A popular local lager, widely available. Fresh Fruit Juices: Made from Taitung's abundant local fruits, these are refreshing. Beyond mochi, look for various pastries, taro balls (especially in soups or shaved ice), and diverse shaved ice desserts with fruit, condensed milk, and other toppings.
Fine dining options are limited compared to major metropolitan cities in Taiwan. Some higher-end resorts (especially in Zhiben Hot Springs) or upscale hotels in Taitung City may feature restaurants with refined cuisine, often with an emphasis on local ingredients.
Taitung City has numerous mid-range restaurants. These establishments feature various Taiwanese cuisines, including hot pot, stir-fries, and noodle dishes. You can also find some international cuisine options, like Japanese or Western-style restaurants. They give a comfortable sit-down dining experience.
The Taitung Night Market (正氣路觀光夜市) is the best place for diverse and affordable street food. It opens in the evenings and has a lively atmosphere with countless stalls. Small Local Eateries (xiaochi guan, 小吃館) are abundant throughout Taitung City and smaller towns, featuring authentic, inexpensive, and often very delicious meals. Look for places busy with locals; they make great spots for regional specialties.
Local traditional markets in Taitung City are active in the mornings, selling fresh produce, meat, and seafood. They offer a glimpse into local life. The Taitung Night Market is the main food market for tourists, with many ready-to-eat dishes.
These are best for fresh ingredients or experiencing daily local routines.
While local Taiwanese cuisine dominates (and is highly recommended), Taitung City does have some international dining choices. You might find Japanese restaurants (sushi, ramen), a few Western-style cafes or diners, and sometimes other Asian cuisines, but the selection is not as vast as in Taipei or Kaohsiung.
Local cuisine is the main focus and very authentic.
Relatively common due to Buddhism. Look for "素食" (sùshí) signs.
Strictly vegan choices are more challenging. Learn specific phrases for "no eggs," "no milk."
Extremely limited. Stick to fresh fruits, vegetables, and clearly labeled pre-packaged goods.
Challenging in Taiwanese cuisine (soy sauce, fried batters). Consider translation cards.
Use a Translation app on your phone or carry a pre-written Translation card in Mandarin explaining your dietary needs. This will greatly improve your dining experience.
Clearly communicate allergies for a safer meal.
For gluten-free needs, focus on naturally gluten-free foods like fresh seafood (grilled, not fried), rice (confirm no soy sauce in preparation), vegetables, and fruits.
Cooking your own meals in accommodation with kitchen facilities can simplify managing dietary restrictions.
These are often reservation-based and located outside main cities.
Along the coast, specifically in Chenggong and Fugang, find restaurants serving seafood caught that day. You often pick your seafood from tanks and it's cooked to order.
Vegetarian options are relatively common in Taiwan due to the strong influence of Buddhism. Look for restaurants displaying the "素食" (sùshí) sign, which indicates a vegetarian eatery. Many regular restaurants also have specific vegetarian dishes or can modify existing ones.
Finding strictly vegan options can be more challenging than vegetarian. If you are vegan, you need to be more specific. Learn phrases like "no eggs" (bu yao dan, 不要蛋) and "no milk" (bu yao niu nai, 不要牛奶).
Halal and kosher food options are extremely limited in Taitung, as Taiwan does not have a large Muslim or Jewish population. Your best approach is to pick fresh fruits, vegetables, and pre-packaged goods from supermarkets that clearly list ingredients.
Before your trip, research restaurants or food stalls known for catering to specific dietary needs. Online forums and specialized food blogs can be helpful.
Some smaller establishments may be more flexible with ingredient changes.
Pack some of your own safe snacks, especially if you have severe allergies. Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Family Mart) are widespread for packaged goods.
Always double-check ingredient lists on packaged foods.
This offers deep insight into local food culture.
Visit local farms in areas like Chishang to see where fresh produce, rice, and fruits originate. Some farms offer tastings and direct purchases, bridging the gap between farm and plate.
Explore the Taitung Night Market or other local eateries with a guided food tour. A local guide can help you navigate the myriad of options and taste regional specialties.
Always try to communicate your dietary restrictions clearly. A picture of your specific allergen or a written note in Mandarin can greatly assist restaurant staff.
