Taiwan Food Guide: Must-Try Local Dishes and Michelin BiB Recommended Favorites

Taiwan food Introduction

When people think of Taiwanese food, the first image that often comes to mind is the irresistible aroma drifting from bustling night markets. Yet Taiwan’s cuisine goes far beyond street snacks, offering an incredible variety of flavors and textures. From crispy, juicy salted fried chicken and chewy oyster omelets to rich, aromatic beef noodle soup and creative modern twists, every bite tells a story and leaves you craving more.

These dishes are more than just delicious—they also reflect Taiwan’s rich history and diverse culture. No matter which city or town you explore, you’ll always find authentic Taiwanese food that delivers an unforgettable culinary experience.

For food lovers, discovering Taiwan’s cuisine isn’t just a recommendation—it’s an absolute must.

Taiwan food 1. Beef Noodle Soup（牛肉麵）

Source: Michelin Guide

Beef noodle soup is one of the most iconic dishes in Taiwan, often considered a national comfort food. Its roots trace back to 1949, when veterans from mainland China brought their recipes to Taiwan and adapted them with local ingredients and seasonings, giving rise to the beloved version enjoyed today.

There are two main styles of Taiwanese beef noodle soup: braised and clear broth. The braised version uses soy sauce and fermented bean paste as its base, creating a deep, savory aroma with layers of flavor. In contrast, the clear broth version highlights the natural sweetness of beef, offering a lighter and more refreshing taste. No matter the style, the essentials remain the same—tender beef, springy noodles, and a perfectly balanced broth.

Crafting the perfect bowl requires patience and skill. Cuts like shank or brisket are first blanched, then slowly simmered for hours with a carefully chosen mix of spices until the beef reaches melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Meanwhile, the broth is seasoned to perfection before being paired with freshly cooked noodles and topped with scallions for the final touch.

Far from being just a snack, beef noodle soup is a staple meal deeply embedded in daily life across Taiwan. From humble street stalls to well-known chains like Three Merchants Qiaofu, which operates over 150 branches nationwide, you’ll find it nearly everywhere.

But among all these choices, which beef noodle shops do locals swear by—and which have earned the coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition?

Taipei - Lin Dong Fang Beef Noodle（林東芳牛肉麵）

Craving a comforting bowl of beef noodle soup late at night? Lin Dong Fang has long been a favorite in Taipei, serving locals and visitors alike until 3 AM. Recently recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand, the shop has relocated to a new space featuring vintage-inspired décor and the welcome addition of air conditioning—making it a more comfortable spot to enjoy this classic dish.

The signature broth is simmered for hours with beef bones and a blend of Chinese herbs, resulting in an aromatic, flavorful base that’s rich but never overly greasy. The beef is tender and succulent, while the noodles retain just the right amount of chewiness. For those who love a kick, the house-made beef oil chili sauce is a must, adding depth and spice to every spoonful.

• Address: No. 322, Section 2, Bade Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
• Opening hours: 11:00 - 03:00
• Recommended dishes: Half-tendon half-meat beef noodle；side dishes: dried tofu, tofu skin

Taipei - Liao’s Beef Noodle（廖家牛肉麵）

Awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2018 and 2019, Liao’s Beef Noodle is famous for its clear broth—light yet flavorful, with a subtle beef bone aroma. The broth is milder than braised versions but naturally sweet, paired with generous cuts of tender beef.Located near the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, this shop is very popular, so expect to queue during peak hours.

• Address: No. 98, Jinhua Street, Da’an District, Taipei City
• Opening hours: 10:00 - 15:00 (Closed on Mondays)
• Recommended dishes: Beef noodle, braised tofu, limited daily supply of dried anchovies with tofu

Taipei - Halal Chinese Beef Noodle Restaurant

Located near Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall MRT Station, this restaurant has been in operation for over 60 years and uses only fresh Taiwanese beef. Both the clear and braised broths are flavorful, and the shop boasts that its broth is never turned off, ensuring a rich and consistent taste. This dedication has earned the restaurant Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition for six consecutive years since 2018.

• Recommended dishes: Clear broth beef noodle, Northeast-style Chinese pancakes with Beijing sauce and beef strips, vegetarian steamed dumplings, limited handmade beef jerky
• Address: No. 7, Lane 137, Yanji Street, Da’an District, Taipei City
• Opening hours: 11:30 - 14:00, 17:00 - 20:30 (Closed on Wednesdays)

Taiwan food 2. Taiwanese Fried Chicken（Popcorn Chicken）

Taiwanese fried chicken（Popcorn Chicken） is a must-try street food commonly found in night markets and street stalls across Taiwan. The dish is made by cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces, coating them in seasoned flour, and deep-frying them until golden and crispy. To finish, the pieces are sprinkled with pepper salt for extra flavor. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s hard to resist the irresistible crunch of Taiwanese fried chicken.

Today, many fried chicken stalls offer more than just chicken. Customers can mix and match from a wide variety of deep-fried snacks, including broccoli, king oyster mushrooms, tofu, pig’s blood cake, sweet potatoes, and squid. Before serving, basil leaves and garlic are often fried together with the chicken, infusing the dish with a fragrant aroma. This combination of crispy chicken, aromatic basil, and a final dusting of pepper salt or chili powder makes it a night market favorite you simply can’t miss.

Taiwan food 3. Chicken Cutlet or Fried Chicken

Chicken cutlets and fried chicken are beloved snacks among Taiwanese people. Made by marinating whole chicken breasts or other parts, they are coated in flour and deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior. Once out of the fryer, they are typically sprinkled with pepper salt or chili powder, and some vendors also offer special sauces for an even richer taste.

The origin of the chicken cutlet remains debated, but today, you can find this snack at almost every street corner, night market, or busy commercial area. Some vendors have even built entire chains specializing in chicken cutlets, such as "A-Liang Chicken," "Monga Fried Chicken," and "Fat Daddy American Fried Chicken."

In Tonghua Night Market, there is also a Michelin-recommended stall called "Guden Fried Chicken." Known for its fresh ingredients, the stall uses a custom-made thin batter and quick frying technique to create unforgettable flavor and a good value for your money. Despite its small size, the stall has earned many loyal customers. If you want to avoid long queues, it’s best to visit outside peak hours.

Guden Fried Chicken（格登炸雞）

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

Popular Chicken Cutlet Brands Across Taiwan

1. Taipei: Monga Fried Chicken – Must-try: King Chicken Cutlet
2. Taipei: Cooperative Fried Chicken – Must-try: Traditional Five-Spice Chicken Cutlet
3. New Taipei City: Bomb Fried Chicken – Must-try: Juicy Chicken Cutlet
4. Taoyuan City: Seoul Chicken Cutlet – Must-try: Crispy Chicken Cutlet
5. Miaoli County: Rancho Chicken – Must-try: Juicy Crispy Chicken Cutlet and Deep-Fried Squid
6. Taichung City: Yi Zhong Hao Da Chicken Cutlet – Must-try: Signature Chicken Cutlet
7. Taichung City: Fatty Chicken Dices – Must-try: Crispy Chicken Dices
8. Taichung City: Ji Guang Savory Chicken – Must-try: Ji Guang Chicken
9. Nantou County: Hao Da Da Chicken Cutlet – Must-try: Signature Chicken Cutlet
10. Changhua County: Hao Legend Chicken Cutlet – Must-try: Double Cheese Chicken Cutlet
11. Changhua County: BQ American Fried Chicken – Must-try: Signature Fried Chicken
12. Chiayi County: 3Q Chicken Cutlet – Must-try: Signature Chicken Cutlet
13. Yunlin County: Crispy American-Style Fried Chicken – Must-try: Signature Fried Chicken
14. Kaohsiung City: Angel Chicken Cutlet – Must-try: Extra Thick Chicken Cutlet
15. Kaohsiung City: Dandan Burger – Must-try: Fried Chicken Thigh Burger (Exclusive to Southern Taiwan)
16. Tainan City: Fried Chicken Trade Co. – Must-try: Ba-Liang Chicken, San-Liang Leg
17. Tainan City: Ye Mack Herbal Fried Chicken – Must-try: Herbal Chicken Cutlet
18. Tainan City: Fu Cheng BBQ Chicken Cutlet – Must-try: Grilled Chicken Cutlet
19. Yilan County: Taiwanese Fried Wings – Must-try: Fried Chicken Wings
20. Yilan County: Kabbina Burger – Must-try: Fried Chicken Burger
21. Taitung County: Blue Dragonfly Fried Chicken – Must-try: Signature Fried Chicken
22. Taitung County: A-Hong Fried Chicken – Must-try: Signature Fried Chicken

Taiwan food 4. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings，小籠包）

Source: Michelin Guide

Xiao Long Bao is a delicate steamed dish known for its thin skin and juicy filling. A bite into one reveals a burst of flavorful broth, making it a beloved snack that has stood the test of time.

Although originally from Shanghai, Taiwan has developed its own unique take on Xiao Long Bao, offering a local twist to this iconic dish.

Creating delicious Xiao Long Bao requires meticulous attention to detail—from kneading the dough and rolling it into thin skins to carefully wrapping the fillings. The balance between the soft dough and the succulent filling of pork and scallions is key to achieving its signature flavor.

The most famous Xiao Long Bao restaurant in Taiwan is "Din Tai Fung." Since opening in 1972, it has become an internationally renowned chain with 10 locations across Taiwan.

Din Tai Fung is known for its perfectly crafted dumplings, each with 18 delicate folds, thin skin, and flavorful filling, attracting many tourists eager to experience this dish. While Din Tai Fung’s prices may be on the higher side, there are plenty of budget-friendly alternatives available at other restaurants and street stalls, offering tasty Xiao Long Bao that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Din Tai Fung（鼎泰豐）

• Address: No. 45, City Hall Road, B1, Xinyi District, Taipei City (Taipei 101 Branch)
• Opening hours: 10:45 - 20:30
• Recommended dishes: Xiao Long Bao, Crab Roe Xiao Long Bao, Shrimp Fried Rice 

Tainan - Shanghai Hao Wei Dao Soup Dumplings

• Address: No. 26, Dong’an Road, East District, Tainan City
• Opening hours: 10:30 - 22:00 (Closed on Wednesdays)
• Recommended dishes: Soup Dumplings, Shrimp Steamed Dumplings

Kaohsiung - Hou De Fu Dumplings and Noodle Shop

• Address: No. 214, Chenggong 1st Road, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City
• Opening hours: 11:00 - 20:30
• Recommended dishes: Fresh Meat Soup Dumplings, Spicy Wontons

Taiwan food 5. Oyster Omelet（蚵仔煎）

Source: Michelin Guide

Oyster omelet is one of Taiwan’s most iconic seafood snacks, with its roots in the coastal regions of southern Taiwan. Fresh oysters are first lightly stir-fried on a hot griddle before being covered with a batter made from sweet potato starch. As it cooks, the batter develops a slightly chewy yet crisp golden texture. An egg and a handful of greens are then added, and the omelet is finished until the edges turn perfectly crisp.

The secret to a truly great oyster omelet lies not only in using plump, fresh oysters but also in achieving the ideal batter-to-filling ratio. Once plated, the dish is topped with a unique savory sauce made from soy sauce, tomato paste, miso, and chili—creating a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.

Different regions of Taiwan offer their own variations, each with devoted fans. One standout is Yuanhuanbian Oyster Omelet at Ningxia Night Market in Taipei. With over 50 years of history and a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition, it is celebrated for its generous oysters, well-balanced batter, and consistent quality. Unsurprisingly, long lines of eager customers are a common sight.

Yuanhuanbian Oyster Omelet (Ningxia Night Market)

• Address: No. 46, Ningxia Road, Datong District, Taipei City
• Opening hours: 12:00 - 14:30, 16:30 - 00:30 (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)

Taiwan food 6. Ba-Wan (Taiwanese Meatball，肉圓)

Image source: Michelin Guide

The origins of Ba-Wan (Taiwanese meatball) can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty, when leftover pork and vegetables were wrapped in glutinous rice dough and steamed, forming the earliest version of this dish. Over time, different regions across Taiwan created their own variations, each with distinct textures and cooking methods.

In central Taiwan, Changhua Ba-Wan is the most famous. Its translucent, chewy exterior is made from a blend of sweet potato starch and cornstarch, encasing a savory filling of pork and bamboo shoots. The dumplings are first steamed and then lightly fried before serving, accompanied by a sweet and savory sauce that perfectly complements the bouncy skin and juicy filling.

Another must-try is Taichung Rou Yuan, a shop with nearly 90 years of history and a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition. Its menu is simple, featuring just three items: Ba-Wan, fish ball soup, and glass noodle soup. The Ba-Wan here stands out for its pepper-seasoned pork filling wrapped in thin, chewy dough, offering a taste that has remained a local favorite for generations.

Taichung Rou Yuan（台中肉圓）

• Address: No. 529, Section 3, Fuxing Road, South District, Taichung City
• Opening hours: 10:30 - 19:30

Taiwan food 7. Oyster Vermicelli / Intestine Vermicelli（大腸蚵仔麵線）

The origins of oyster vermicelli can be traced back to southern Taiwan, where fishermen cooked fresh oysters with vermicelli to replenish their energy after long hours at sea. Today, both oyster vermicelli and large intestine vermicelli have become beloved staples at shops and street stalls across the island.

A good bowl of vermicelli depends on soft yet springy noodles, paired with fresh oysters that enrich the broth with a deep, savory flavor. Properly prepared intestines—meticulously cleaned and slow-marinated—add another layer of richness and are considered a delicacy in their own right.

To customize the flavor, diners often add condiments such as vinegar, chili, or minced garlic, which brighten the broth and enhance its complexity.

One of the most iconic spots is Ay-Chung Vermicelli in Taipei’s Ximending. Established in 1975, it has become a must-visit destination, where customers often enjoy their bowls standing right outside the shop—a unique scene that adds to the experience.

Another favorite is Shenqiu Intestine Vermicelli in New Taipei City, which even impressed Michelin-starred chef Anh Sung-Jae, a judge on Netflix’s Chef’s Table. Known for its generous portions and bold flavors, this shop remains a go-to for both locals and visitors.

Ay-Chung Vermicelli（阿宗麵線）

• Address: No. 8-1, Emei Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City
• Opening hours: 08:00 - 22:30

Shenqiu Intestine Vermicelli（深丘大腸蚵仔麵線）

• Address: No. 2-1, Xinfu Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City
• Opening hours: 06:00 - 16:00 (Closed on Sundays)

Taiwan food 8. Stinky Tofu（臭豆腐）

Source: Chou Lao Ban Steamed Stinky Tofu

Stinky tofu is one of Taiwan’s most distinctive snacks, often sparking polarizing opinions. Fans believe the pungent aroma is a sign of deliciousness—the stronger the smell, the better the flavor. For others, however, the odor can be overwhelming.

Its signature scent comes from the fermentation process. Despite the strong smell, the tofu is deep-fried until golden and crispy on the outside, while staying soft and tender inside. Paired with homemade pickled cabbage and flavorful sauces, it transforms into an irresistible street food classic.

In Taiwan, stinky tofu isn’t limited to the fried version. Steamed varieties are also popular, with one standout being Chou Lao Ban Steamed Stinky Tofu at Nanji Chang Night Market. Known for its unexpectedly mild taste despite its rich aroma, this stall has gained wide recognition and even earned a spot on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list.

Chou Lao Ban Steamed Stinky Tofu（臭老闆現蒸臭豆腐）

• Address: No. 6, Lane 313, Section 2, Zhonghua Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City (Nanji Chang Night Market)
• Opening hours: 11:00 - 22:30 (Closed on Wednesdays)

Taiwan food 9. Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan，滷肉飯)

Source: Michelin Guide

Braised pork rice, or Lu Rou Fan, is a quintessential Taiwanese street food. Its origins trace back to Taiwan’s agricultural era, when farmers sought an affordable, energy-rich meal after long hours in the fields. Using locally sourced ingredients, they slow-cooked pork belly into a savory stew and served it over rice, creating a comforting dish that quickly became a staple.

The magic of Lu Rou Fan lies in its sauce, which penetrates the meat with rich flavors after hours of simmering, turning it into tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites. Shiitake mushrooms are often added for extra umami and a pleasant contrast in texture.

One standout version can be found at Xiao Wang Braised Pork, a Michelin Bib Gourmand selection in Huaxi Street Night Market. Nicknamed “Black Gold Braised Pork Rice” for its glossy, gelatinous sauce, this dish pairs beautifully with firm, fragrant rice that absorbs every drop of flavor.

Xiao Wang Braised Pork（小王煮瓜）

• Address: No. 17-4, Huaxi Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City (Huaxi Street Night Market)
• Opening hours: 09:30 - 20:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)

Taiwan food 10. Pork Belly Rice (Kong Rou Fan，焢肉飯)

Source: Michelin Guide

Pork belly rice, known as Kong Rou Fan, is believed to have originated in southern Taiwan, particularly in Tainan. Unlike braised pork rice (Lu Rou Fan), which is made with minced pork, Kong Rou Fan features thick slices of slow-cooked pork belly, creating a richer and more indulgent texture.

The dish is prepared by simmering pork belly with a blend of spices and seasonings over low heat until the meat becomes tender yet not overly greasy. With its perfect balance of fat and lean layers, each bite offers a satisfying melt-in-the-mouth experience.

In northern Taiwan, one of the most famous places to try this dish is Yi Jia Zi, a Michelin Bib Gourmand–recommended restaurant near Longshan Temple. Here, diners can enjoy both Kong Rou Fan and Lu Rou Fan, along with other Taiwanese classics like Gua Bao (pork buns). The restaurant’s use of homemade pickles, tofu, and aged sauces lends a nostalgic, homestyle flavor that keeps customers coming back.

Yi Jia Zi Restaurant（一甲子餐飲）

• Address: No. 79, Kangding Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City
• Opening hours: 09:00 - 19:00 (Closed on Sundays)

Taiwan food 11. Small Sausage in Large Sausage（大腸包小腸）

The “small sausage in large sausage” (da chang bao xiao chang) is a must-try at Taiwan’s night markets. This iconic snack pairs a grilled Taiwanese pork sausage (the small sausage) with a sticky rice sausage (the large sausage), serving as both the bun and the base. The contrast of smoky, juicy meat and chewy, slightly crispy rice creates a burst of flavor and texture in every bite.

Before serving, it’s usually topped with minced garlic, cilantro, chili, and pickled mustard greens, adding layers of aroma and freshness. Flavorful, filling, and fun to eat, this unique Taiwanese creation is the kind of snack that keeps you coming back for more.

Taiwan food 12. Gua Bao (Pork Bun)

Gua Bao, often called a “pork belly bun” or playfully nicknamed “tiger bites pig,” is one of Taiwan’s most beloved street foods. The fluffy steamed bun resembles a tiger’s open mouth, clamping down on a hearty slice of braised pork belly—a presentation as charming as it is delicious.

A perfect Gua Bao starts with buns that are carefully steamed to achieve a soft, pillowy texture. The star, of course, is the filling: tender pork belly with just the right balance of fat and lean meat. Traditional toppings like crushed peanuts, pickled mustard greens, sugar, and cilantro add layers of flavor and crunch, transforming a simple bun into a satisfying bite.

Modern interpretations of Gua Bao have expanded beyond pork, featuring fillings such as fried chicken, three-cup chicken, and even vegetarian options to suit changing tastes. For a classic experience, Yuan Fang at Huaxi Street Night Market is a must-visit. Known for its handmade buns and juicy braised pork belly, it delivers an authentic, nostalgic flavor that pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of Si Shen Tang (herbal soup).

Yuan Fang Gua Bao（源芳刈包）

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

Taiwan food 13. Bubble Tea（珍珠奶茶）

Source: Chun Shui Tang

Bubble tea, one of Taiwan’s most iconic creations, has grown into a global sensation. From Asia to Europe and North America, bubble tea shops can now be found in nearly every major city, making the drink a true symbol of Taiwanese food culture.

The origins of bubble tea date back to the late 1980s, when traditional milk tea was blended with chewy tapioca pearls to create a fun, innovative texture. Its customizable sweetness and ice levels—like the ever-popular “less sugar, less ice”—make it easy to tailor the drink to personal tastes.

Today, countless variations exist, featuring toppings such as pudding, grass jelly, and even cheese foam, but tapioca pearls remain the timeless favorite. For first-timers, well-known chains like 50 Lan and Chun Shui Tang are excellent starting points, offering classic flavors alongside creative modern twists.

Taiwan food 14. Mango Shaved Ice

Mango shaved ice is the ultimate summer treat in Taiwan, offering sweet relief on hot and humid days. This popular dessert features generous piles of golden, juicy mango chunks served over a bed of finely shaved ice. The ice’s smooth, fluffy texture perfectly balances the fruit’s natural sweetness, while a drizzle of condensed milk on top adds an indulgent creamy finish.

The best mangoes in Taiwan come from the south, especially Yujing in Tainan and Fangshan in Pingtung. Whether enjoyed fresh, blended into smoothies, or made into dried mango snacks, Taiwan’s mangoes are celebrated for their rich aroma and unmatched flavor.

Taiwan food 15. Convenience Store Drinks

Source: Taiwan Beverage Association

It may come as a surprise, but convenience store drinks are an essential part of Taiwan’s food culture. Many international visitors find themselves missing these beverages long after leaving the island, with some even willing to pay extra to enjoy them abroad. Chains like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart offer an impressive variety of drinks—from seasonal specialties to exclusive collaborations—that have captured the hearts of travelers.

Bonus: What’s the difference between Michelin stars and Bib Gourmand?

Evaluation Criteria

• Michelin stars focus on food quality, cooking techniques, creativity, and consistency.
• Bib Gourmand highlights "value for money," emphasizing affordable yet high-quality cuisine.

Price Range

• Michelin-starred restaurants tend to be more expensive.
• Bib Gourmand recommendations offer three-course meals under NT$1,000 in Taipei and Taichung.

Types of Restaurants

• Michelin stars are usually awarded to fine dining establishments.
• Bib Gourmand includes casual eateries, food stalls, and affordable restaurants.

Rating Levels

• Michelin stars have three levels: one, two, and three stars.
• Bib Gourmand has no levels—just the recognition of inclusion.

Symbols

• Michelin stars are represented by stars.
• Bib Gourmand uses the image of a Michelin Man sticking out his tongue.

Focus

• Michelin stars emphasize culinary expertise and innovation.
• Bib Gourmand highlights authentic flavors and value.

In summary, while Michelin stars represent the pinnacle of fine dining, Bib Gourmand showcases affordable culinary delights. Both serve as helpful guides for diners with different budgets, and each selection undergoes a rigorous annual review process to ensure fairness and accuracy.

More about "taiwanese food" – FAQ

Q: What is the price range for taiwanese food?

Q: Where can I enjoy authentic Taiwanese food?

Q: What drinks are part of Taiwanese food?

Q: How is the hygiene of Taiwanese food?

Q: Are there vegetarian options in Taiwanese food?

Q: What is the difference between Taiwanese food and Chinese snacks?

Q: What are the regional characteristics of Taiwanese food?

Q: How can I order food if I don't speak Chinese?

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