Taipei, Taiwan
Taiwanese cuisine draws influences from Fujianese, Hakka, and Japanese culinary traditions. It emphasizes fresh ingredients, often featuring lighter flavors.
A balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors defines many dishes. Street food culture is central to Taiwanese dining, providing accessible and flavorful experiences.
Chopsticks are the common utensils; spoons for soups. Meals are often served family-style, with diners sharing various dishes.
Slurping noodles or soup is acceptable. Tipping is generally not customary or expected in Taiwan.
Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice. Restaurants often serve tea freely with meals.
Considered Taiwan’s national dish, featuring a rich, savory broth, tender beef chunks, and chewy noodles.
Find excellent versions in dedicated noodle shops throughout Taipei.
A pork belly bun with soft steamed bun, succulent braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and crushed peanuts.
Common at night markets and street food stalls.
Delicate, steamed soup dumplings filled with minced meat and a burst of hot, savory broth.
Din Tai Fung is world-famous; local eateries offer excellent, affordable versions.
Taiwan's iconic tea-based drink with milk and chewy tapioca pearls, countless varieties available.
Taiwan Beer, Kaoliang Liquor, Pineapple Cakes, Shaved Ice, Aiyu Jelly, and various seasonal/festival foods.
Taipei boasts a growing fine dining scene, including several Michelin-starred restaurants. These offer refined Taiwanese, international, and fusion dishes.
Mid-range restaurants are abundant throughout Taipei, providing diverse culinary choices. Taipei offers excellent international dining options.
Night markets are famous for their vast variety of affordable and delicious street food. Traditional markets and small eateries offer inexpensive meals.
A very popular communal dining experience where diners cook fresh ingredients in a simmering broth at their table.
A quintessential social dining event in Taiwan.
A Japanese-style hot pot, also widely popular, featuring thinly sliced meats and vegetables cooked quickly.
Offers a lighter and often more refined hot pot experience.
Learn to make popular Taiwanese dishes or bubble tea.
Sample dishes with a knowledgeable guide, especially at night markets.
Fruit picking in season (e.g., mandarin oranges) in agricultural areas.
Taipei features various quirky and unique themed dining spots.
Finding strictly gluten-free options can be challenging as soy sauce, a staple, often contains wheat.
Communication can be difficult if Mandarin is not spoken.
Carrying a translation card clearly stating specific allergens is highly recommended.
Clearly explain your allergies to restaurant staff.
Online forums, social media groups, and dedicated apps can help locate suitable restaurants.
Learning Mandarin phrases for dietary needs is extremely beneficial for communication.
Numerous cooking classes are available in Taipei, focusing on Taiwanese cuisine.
Food tours, especially night market food tours, are popular ways to sample a wide variety of local dishes.
Some agricultural areas near Yangmingshan might offer fruit picking in season (e.g., mandarin oranges).
Venture beyond popular dishes to discover local specialties in small eateries and traditional markets.
Look for hidden gems in neighborhood alleys.
Night markets are a cultural institution; try a variety of snacks and small meals.
Engage with vendors for recommendations.
Ask locals for their favorite eateries or dishes for an authentic experience.
Check for seasonal fruits or limited-time festival foods during your visit.
Many vendors are happy to explain dishes, even with language barriers.
While tipping is not customary, politeness and a smile are always appreciated by staff.
