Best night markets in Taipei｜5 local favorites that outshine Shilin Night Market + Michelin Bib Gourmand street foods!

Best night markets in Taipei

As the capital city of Taiwan, Taipei is packed with night markets, but if you think the only recommended ones are the “Shilin Night Market,” “Raohe Night Market,” and “Ningxia Night Market”—the large tourist hotspots—you’re missing out.

In fact, Taipei has many smaller, local night markets that residents go to frequently and love. These places are less crowded than the tourist spots, and most importantly, they have transparent pricing and are free from the high-price disputes common in tourist markets. It’s a more comfortable experience overall.

Each night market has its own charm, but if you have the chance, be sure to visit these local markets. Try the local-favorite dishes, including Michelin-recommended eats, and savor the authentic, warm atmosphere of Taipei’s night markets.

Best night markets in Taipei 1. Lehua Night Market

Image Source: New Taipei City Tourism Bureau

Located on Yongping Road in Yonghe District, New Taipei City, Lehua Night Market is a night market filled with local charm. With over 300 stalls offering everything from traditional snacks to innovative street foods, it draws in large crowds every evening. Unlike night markets for tourists, prices here are fair and there are no surprise charges. Situated conveniently near the MRT station, it’s a great dinner destination with various choices like the richly flavored “Guo Ji Spicy Stinky Tofu” and the tangy “Guan Ji Pure Lemon Thai Papaya Salad,” perfect for those with a preference for strong flavors.

Lehua Night Market Information

• Opening Hours: 16:00-00:00
• Address: Yongping Road, Yonghe District, New Taipei City
• Transport: Take the Taipei MRT Zhonghe-Xinlu Line to Dingxi Station, then walk about 10 minutes.

Guo Ji Spicy Stinky Tofu

Image Source: Guo Ji Spicy Stinky Tofu, Google Business

Are you a fan of stinky tofu? If so, Lehua Night Market has a must-try for you! Known for its unique spicy flavor, “Guo Ji Spicy Stinky Tofu” attracts long queues as soon as it opens.

The tofu is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served in a specially made spicy broth that’s aromatic without being overly salty. The spice level is just right, and the addition of duck blood makes it even more delicious.

• Address: Lane 180, Yongping Road, Yonghe District, New Taipei City
• Opening Hours: 16:00-01:30

Sanxian Soup

Image Source: Lehua Sanxian Soup Store 2, Google Business

Sanxian Soup is another popular dish at Lehua Night Market. The “Sanxian” refers to three key seafood ingredients: shrimp, squid, and spanish mackerel. Each spoonful bursts with fresh seafood flavor.

The spanish mackerel is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, pairing perfectly with the rich, thick soup. The soup consistency is just right, and a dash of black vinegar or chili enhances the flavor. They have two stores in Lehua Night Market: one in the night market itself and another in a storefront, where it’s cooler and less crowded—ideal for a relaxed dining experience.

A bowl costs just 70 NTD, leaving room to try other market delicacies. If you want a heartier portion, add 10 NTD for extra noodles, vermicelli, or rice noodles. For an authentic taste of Taiwanese night market, the flavorful Sanxian Soup is a perfect choice!

• Address: No. 146, Yongping Road, Yonghe District, New Taipei City
• Opening Hours: 17:30-01:00

Guan Ji Pure Lemon Thai Papaya Salad

Image Source: Guan Ji Pure Lemon Thai Papaya Salad

Guan Ji Pure Lemon Thai Papaya Salad is a must-try at Lehua Night Market, often with a long queue from the moment it opens. The owner makes each serving fresh, mixing crisp shredded green papaya with garlic, chili, dried shrimp, fish sauce, and lemon juice in a large mortar, pounding them together for maximum flavor.

The first taste is a delightful crunch of papaya paired with the zesty, spicy dressing, perfectly balanced by the freshness of fish sauce and lemon. For those who like it spicy, be sure to ask for extra chili, though beginners should start with mild. A sprinkle of crunchy peanuts completes the texture, and the chilled papaya salad is even more refreshing. This is a must for anyone looking for an authentic Thai flavor experience!

• Address: No. 1, Lane 180, Yongping Road, Yonghe District, New Taipei City
• Opening Hours: 17:00-23:30 (Closed on Sundays)

Best night markets in Taipei 2. Huaxi Street Night Market

Image Source: Taipei City Government Tourism Bureau

Huaxi Street, located in the historic Wanhua District, still preserves many traditional elements. It was once famous as “Snake Street” due to its snake cuisine offerings, though protected snake species are no longer served. Those curious and unafraid of snakes can still find some snake dishes here.

Beyond the food, Huaxi Street Night Market also offers a unique look at one of Taipei’s oldest night market streetscapes, with a traditional archway at the entrance and a strong sense of community. It’s one of the best places to experience the local Taiwanese atmosphere.

Huaxi Street Night Market Information

• Opening Hours: 16:00-00:00
• Address: Huaxi Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City
• Transport: Take the Taipei MRT Bannan Line to Longshan Temple Station, then walk about 10 minutes.

Of course, Huaxi Street also has many must-try foods:

Lao Wang’s Braised Pork

Image Source: Michelin Guide

“Lao Wang’s Braised Pork,” with a history of almost 45 years at Huaxi Street, is famous for its signature braised pork in clear soup, offering a nostalgic taste of Taiwanese grandma’s home cooking. It’s a simple, traditional dish that earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand recommendation in 2019.

The shop also serves various rice dishes, including braised pork rice, pork belly rice, and mushroom braised pork rice. The salty and savory flavor of the braised pork perfectly complements each grain of rice. For a complete meal, pair it with a salted duck egg and stewed cabbage—all for less than 100 NTD.

• Opening Hours: 9:00-20:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)
• Address: No. 17-4, Huaxi Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City

Yuan Fang Gua Bao

Image Source: Michelin Guide

Known locally as "Gua Bao" or "Taiwanese burger," this traditional snack combines tender pork belly with fresh cilantro, pickled vegetables, and peanut powder in a soft bun. Yuan Fang Gua Bao, located in Huaxi Street, has been a beloved spot for over 60 years and has received multiple Michelin Bib Gourmand awards.

The shop specializes in just two items: Gua Bao and Four Herbal Soup. Each Gua Bao is made fresh, featuring a balance of fatty and lean pork, sour pickles, and a sprinkle of peanut powder for a sweet-savory blend. It's a simple yet iconic Taiwanese snack.

• Opening Hours: 11:30-20:00 (Closed on Mondays)
• Address: No. 17-2, Huaxi Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City

Chang Hong Handmade Noodles

Image Source: Michelin Guide

If you’re a noodle enthusiast, then “Chang Hong Handmade Noodles” is a must-try. This shop has been recognized by Michelin Bib Gourmand for four consecutive years, serving simple yet flavorful handmade noodles with fresh ingredients and savory broth.

The signature dish is “Chrysanthemum Pork Noodles,” named after the tender pork cheek meat used, which has a chrysanthemum-like pattern. The noodles are chewy, and the broth is rich, creating a satisfying and comforting dish for noodle lovers.

• Opening Hours: 12:00-18:00 (Closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
• Address: No. 171, Huaxi Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City

Best night markets in Taipei 3. Gongguan Night Market

Located near the Shuiyuan Market on Roosevelt Road, Gongguan Night Market is close to several universities, including National Taiwan University, Taiwan Tech, and NTNU Gongguan Campus, which makes it a popular spot for affordable, tasty treats. Whether it’s crispy fried scallion pancakes or vegetarian sweet potato balls, Gongguan Night Market offers a range of Michelin-recommended snacks at pocket-friendly prices. It’s also easily accessible by MRT, so if you’re looking for a break from tourist-heavy night markets, take a stroll through Gongguan Night Market!

Gongguan Night Market Information

• Opening Hours: 15:00-23:45
• Address: Lane 90, Section 4, Roosevelt Road, Da’an District, Taipei City
• Transport: Take the Taipei MRT Green Line to Gongguan Station, and you’ll arrive directly at the market.

Lan Jia Gua Bao

Image Source: Michelin Guide

Located in Gongguan Night Market, Lan Jia Gua Bao is a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended eatery that has been serving up mouthwatering Gua Bao for nearly 30 years. The bun is soft, and the filling can be customized with options ranging from all lean meat to all fat, with five choices available.

The braised pork is rich and flavorful, paired with pickled mustard greens, peanut powder, and cilantro for a well-balanced taste. Although there’s usually a short wait, the fresh, hot Gua Bao makes it well worth the wait. For a complete meal, try it with Four Herbal Soup or a bowl of pig intestine and vermicelli soup. Many visitors pair their Gua Bao with Chen San Ding’s famous brown sugar bubble milk tea from next door for a sweet-savory combo.

• Address: No. 8, Lane 316, Section 3, Roosevelt Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
• Opening Hours: 11:00-23:00 (Closed on Mondays)

Xiong Ji Scallion Pancakes

Image Source: Michelin Guide

Xiong Ji Scallion Pancakes is another Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended snack at Gongguan Night Market, located near the Shuiyuan Market. Its stand is easily spotted by the long lines, especially during mealtimes.

The pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft inside, with a strong scallion aroma. Customers can choose to add egg, cheese, or corn as toppings. Those who enjoy basil can ask for an extra basil garnish (free of charge). The stall’s special honey mustard sauce and chili sauce offer unique flavors that set it apart from other scallion pancakes.

The most recommended order by patrons is the “scallion pancake with egg and cheese”—the crispy exterior combined with the soft egg and rich cheese creates a wonderful layered taste. Try to avoid peak dining hours to save on wait time.

• Address: No. 2, Lane 108, Section 4, Roosevelt Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
• Opening Hours: 15:00-00:30 (Closed on Wednesdays)

Vegetarian Sweet Potato Balls

The “Vegetarian Sweet Potato Balls” are another popular treat at Gongguan Night Market. Located near the Shuiyuan Market at the intersection of Tingzhou Road Section 3, these large, hollow sweet potato balls have a unique crispy texture.

Even after cooling, the exterior remains crispy, setting them apart from similar snacks elsewhere. Although there’s often a line, the stall’s quick service keeps waiting-time short. This is a perfect choice for vegetarians looking for a tasty local snack!

• Address: No. 4, Lane 16, Section 4, Roosevelt Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
• Opening Hours: 16:00-22:00 (Closed on Mondays)

Best night markets in Taipei 4. Yan San Night Market (Daqiaotou Night Market)

Known as the “Kitchen of Datong District,” Yan San Night Market holds a special place for locals. As a market deeply cherished by the community, it offers not only delicious food but also a rich sense of culture and history, creating an atmosphere that’s difficult to find in touristy night markets.

Yan San Night Market Information

• Opening Hours: 18:00-00:00
• Address: Section 3, Yanping North Road, Datong District, Taipei City
• Transport: Take the Taipei MRT Zhonghe-Xinlu Line to Daqiaotou Station, then walk to the market.

Daqiaotou Original Tubed Rice Cake

Image Source: Michelin Guide

Daqiaotou Original Tubed Rice Cake is famous for its rice cakes and pork broth. The rice cake is made from premium round glutinous rice, resulting in a chewy texture. Customers can choose between fattier or leaner pork, and the dish is topped with a house-made radish chili sauce for a flavorful kick.

• Opening Hours: 07:00-16:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)
• Address: No. 41, Section 3, Yanping North Road, Datong District, Taipei City

Zao Ding Braised Pork Rib Soup & Cabbage Rice

Image Source: Taipei Market Bureau

Located in an ordinary tin-roofed house, “Zao Ding Braised Pork Rib Soup & Cabbage Rice” is a Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee known for its authentic flavors. Using traditional wood-fired ovens, the restaurant cooks its tender pork ribs with cabbage and carrot, resulting in a broth with a nostalgic taste that’s popular with locals and tourists alike.

• Opening Hours: 10:00-20:00
• Address: Alley 17, Section 3, Yanping North Road, Datong District, Taipei City

Shi Family Fresh Meat Dumplings

Image Source: Taipei Market Bureau

With nearly 60 years of history, Shi Family Fresh Meat Dumplings is another Michelin Bib Gourmand-approved spot in Yan San Night Market. Famous for its fresh meat dumplings, this long-standing eatery prides itself on using 100% round glutinous rice for the dumpling skins, filled with a juicy blend of black pork and other natural ingredients.

The pork filling combines lean and fatty cuts in a 7:3 ratio, with no preservatives or additives. The thin skin and fragrant broth make these dumplings a must-try. They also offer a variety of noodle and rice dishes, so whether you’re in for a full meal or a light snack, this place has you covered.

• Opening Hours: 11:30-22:30
• Address: No. 58, Section 3, Yanping North Road, Datong District, Taipei City

Best night markets in Taipei 5. Linjiang Street Night Market (Tonghua Night Market)

Image Source: Taipei City Government Tourism Bureau

Linjiang Street, also known as Tonghua Night Market, is packed with traditional street foods and popular among local foodies. Highlights include the “Legendary Sweet Potato Balls,” “Red Flower Spicy Taiwanese Salty Chicken,” and the late-night favorite “Grandma Yang’s Eight Treasure Porridge.” With four Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended stalls, Linjiang Street is a must-visit for those looking to explore authentic night market foods.

Linjiang Street Night Market Information

• Opening Hours: 18:00-00:00
• Address: Linjiang Street, Da’an District, Taipei City
• Transport: Take the Taipei MRT Wenhu Line to Liuzhangli Station, then walk to the market.

Golden Fried Chicken

Image Source: Michelin Guide

Golden Fried Chicken is a beloved stall at Tonghua Night Market, renowned for its crispy fried chicken legs and wings. The skin is fried to a golden crunch, while the meat inside remains juicy. Using a special batter, the stall creates a perfectly thin coating that locks in moisture while delivering maximum crunch. Many regular customers come back again and again, especially those seeking high-quality fried food.

• Opening Hours: 17:30-23:30
• Address: No. 35, Alley 50, Lane 39, Tonghua Street, Da’an District, Taipei City

Liang Ji Braised Foods

Known as the “First Stall of Linjiang,” Liang Ji Braised Foods has a history of nearly 60 years and is a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended spot. Customers can pick from a variety of braised delicacies, including duck gizzards, chicken hearts, tofu, seaweed, and blood cake. For those who like spice, adding their homemade chili sauce takes the flavors to the next level.

• Opening Hours: 17:50-01:30 (Closed on Tuesdays)
• Address: No. 33, Alley 50, Lane 39, Tonghua Street, Da’an District, Taipei City

Luo Ji Stir-Fry Restaurant

With only six dishes on the menu, Luo Ji Stir-Fry is a Michelin-recommended restaurant at Tonghua Night Market. Customers can select from dishes like stir-fried bean sprouts, beef, lamb, clams, or snails, each served with five levels of spiciness, from mild to very spicy, making it a versatile choice for diners.

• Opening Hours: 17:00-00:00
• Address: No. 27, Alley 50, Lane 39, Tonghua Street, Da’an District, Taipei City

Yu Pin Yuan Iced and Hot Tangyuan

Known as the top ice and fire dumpling spot in Taipei, Yu Pin Yuan is a highly popular dessert place at Tonghua Night Market. The dumplings come in two flavors: sesame and peanut, and can be served with either shaved ice toppings or sweet fermented-rice soup, making it a unique hot-and-cold dessert experience.

For an extra special touch, try adding the house-made osmanthus honey as a topping, a popular souvenir for many visitors. Just remember to enjoy quickly to maintain the perfect contrast of hot dumplings and cold shaved ice!

• Opening Hours: 18:00-23:30
• Address: No. 31, Alley 50, Lane 39, Tonghua Street, Da’an District, Taipei City

More About “Best night markets in Taipei”  FAQs

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