Taiwan
Sun Moon Lake's food tells a story of nature and tradition.
The cuisine around Sun Moon Lake has influence mainly from general Taiwanese flavors. It also includes contributions from the Thao aboriginal people. The focus remains on fresh, local ingredients, notably fish from the lake and mountain vegetables.
President Fish (總統魚) is a specific type of tilapia native to Sun Moon Lake, renowned for its tender, sweet flesh.
This meat forms a common aboriginal dish. Cooks often grill or stir-fry it, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
This edible fern is commonly stir-fried with garlic or fermented black beans, offering an unique texture and earthy flavor.
Specific type of tilapia, steamed with ginger, scallions, and light soy sauce. Find it at: Restaurants in Shuishe and Ita Thao specializing in local cuisine.
Staple of Thao aboriginal cuisine, seasoned and grilled over open flame. Find it at: Street food stalls and restaurants in Ita Thao Village.
Stir-fried Bird's Nest Fern, a popular mountain vegetable. Find it at: Local restaurants around the lake.
A refreshing, slightly sweet, translucent jelly made from the seeds of a fig-like fruit. Served with lemon juice and honey.
A popular Taiwanese pastry featuring a buttery crust and a sweet and tart pineapple filling.
The Lalu Oriental Brasserie: high-end international and Asian cuisine with stunning lake views. Fleur de Chine Hotel Restaurants: multiple dining options in elegant settings.
Numerous mid-range options in Shuishe and Ita Thao. These offer Taiwanese, Chinese, and some Western dishes. Ita Thao Shopping Street/Night Market offers a variety of affordable street food.
Vegetarian food is often available. Halal and Kosher availability is limited. Gluten-free and other allergen-aware dining presents challenges.
Formal cooking classes are limited. Some B&Bs or cultural centers in Ita Thao may offer informal aboriginal cooking demonstrations.
Food tours typically focus on the street food of Ita Thao Village.
Surrounding areas are known for tea plantations (Assam Tea), mushroom farms, and fruit orchards. Some offer tours or tasting experiences.
Occasional local food festivals occur around harvest times or Thao cultural events.
Private tours on the lake offer dining experiences aboard a boat with scenic views.
Experience traditional Thao meals in Ita Thao Village, offering deep cultural immersion.
Download a translation app like Google Translate and prepare a few phrases in Mandarin related to your dietary needs.
This helps you communicate clearly at restaurants.
Consider preparing some of your own meals if staying in accommodation with kitchen facilities.
This gives you full control over ingredients.
Local cuisine achieves a balance of savory, sweet, sour, and sometimes spicy notes. Common seasonings include soy sauce, rice wine, garlic, ginger, and basil.
Specific Thao ceremonial foods may become available during tribal festivals.
Clearly state your allergies in Mandarin. Common allergens like peanuts, seafood, and soy are prevalent in many dishes.
