【Taiwanese food】15 must-try foods in Taiwan and the Michelin Bib Gourmand recommendations!

Introduction to Taiwanese food

When mentioning Taiwanese food, many people might immediately think of the enticing aromas from night markets. However, Taiwanese food offers a wide variety, each with its own unique characteristics. From crispy and juicy salted fried chicken, chewy oyster omelets, aromatic beef noodles, to innovative new dishes, every bite of these snacks will make your mouth water.

These delicacies also embody Taiwan’s history and culture. No matter which city or town you visit, authentic Taiwanese food will always offer you an unforgettable culinary experience.

If you are a food enthusiast, Taiwanese food is definitely a must-try delight.

Taiwanese food 1. Beef Noodle Soup

Image source: Michelin Guide

Beef noodle soup is one of Taiwan’s most iconic dishes. Its origins trace back to 1949, when veterans brought recipes from mainland China to Taiwan and adapted them with local ingredients and flavors, creating the version we know today.

Generally, beef noodle soup comes in two main flavors: braised and clear broth. The braised version features a base of soy sauce and fermented bean paste, giving it a rich aroma. The clear broth version offers a refreshing taste, highlighting the natural flavor of the beef. Regardless of the type, tender beef and chewy noodles are essential for a perfect bowl.

Making a perfect bowl of beef noodle soup takes time and patience. The right cuts of beef, such as shank or brisket, need to be blanched and simmered with a blend of unique spices for hours to achieve the desired tenderness without becoming dry. Preparing the broth requires careful seasoning. Once the noodles are cooked, the beef and broth are added, topped with scallions, creating a dish ready to be served.

Beef noodle soup is not only a local snack but also a staple meal for many Taiwanese. It’s common to find beef noodle shops everywhere, including chain stores like "Three Merchants Qiaofu," which has 155 locations across Taiwan.

So, which beef noodle shops are highly recommended by locals and have earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition?

Taipei - Lin Dong Fang Beef Noodle

Looking for a late-night bowl of beef noodle soup? Lin Dong Fang is your go-to spot! Open from noon until 3 AM, this Michelin Bib Gourmand-listed shop has upgraded its ambiance after relocating, with a more vintage design and air conditioning.

The broth, simmered with a variety of Chinese herbs and beef bones, is aromatic but not greasy. The tender, flavorful beef pairs perfectly with chewy noodles. For spice lovers, the shop’s homemade beef oil chili sauce is a must-try, adding another layer of richness to the broth.

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

Taipei - Liao’s Beef Noodle

Winning Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition in both 2018 and 2019, Liao’s Beef Noodle is renowned for its high-quality ingredients and unique clear broth, which carries a subtle beef bone aroma. While not as strong as braised versions, the broth is mild and sweet, with tender, large pieces of beef. Located near the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, this shop is so popular that there is often a queue.

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

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)

Taiwanese food 2. Taiwanese Fried Chicken

Taiwanese fried chicken is a must-try street food found in Taiwan's night markets and street stalls. The dish involves cutting chicken into small pieces, coating them with seasoned flour, and deep-frying them until crispy. Finally, they are sprinkled with pepper salt to enhance the flavor. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s hard to resist the appeal of Taiwanese fried chicken.

Modern fried chicken stalls offer more than just chicken. A variety of deep-fried items such as broccoli, king oyster mushrooms, tofu, pig blood cakes, sweet potatoes, and squid are also available for customers to mix and match. Before serving, basil leaves and garlic are often fried together with the chicken, adding a fragrant touch. This combination of crispy chicken and aromatic basil, topped with special pepper salt or chili powder, makes it a dish you can’t miss!

Taiwanese 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

• 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

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

Taiwanese food 4. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)

Image 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

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

Taichung - Yu Zhen Zuan Fresh Meat Soup Dumplings

• Recommended dish: Fresh Meat Soup Dumplings
• Address: No. 309, Dadun Road, Nantun District, Taichung City

Tainan - Shanghai Hao Wei Dao Soup Dumplings

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

Kaohsiung - Hou De Fu Dumplings and Noodle Shop

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

Taiwanese food 5. Oyster Omelet

Image source: Michelin Guide

Oyster omelet is one of Taiwan’s most iconic seafood snacks, with its origins in Taiwan’s coastal southern regions. Fresh oysters are first stir-fried on a hot griddle. Then, a batter made of sweet potato starch is poured over them, creating a crispy, golden texture as it sizzles on the pan. The omelet is finished with an egg and a handful of greens, cooked until the edges are crisp and golden.

The secret to a great oyster omelet lies not only in using fresh, plump oysters but also in getting the batter ratio just right. Once served, the omelet is topped with a savory sauce made from soy sauce, tomato paste, miso, and chili, providing a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.

Every region of Taiwan offers its own twist on this dish, each with loyal followers. For example, "Yuanhuanbian Oyster Omelet" at Ningxia Night Market in Taipei has been around for more than 50 years and earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand recommendation. Known for its fresh, large oysters and perfectly balanced batter, the stall consistently draws long lines of eager customers.

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)

Taiwanese food 6. Ba-Wan (Taiwanese Meatball)

Image source: Michelin Guide

The origins of Ba-Wan can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty, when leftover pork and vegetables were wrapped in glutinous rice dough and steamed to create the earliest version of this dish. Over time, different regions in Taiwan have developed their own variations of Ba-Wan, each with unique cooking methods.

In central Taiwan, Changhua Ba-Wan is the most famous. It features a chewy exterior made from a mixture of sweet potato and cornstarch, with a filling of pork and bamboo shoots. These meatballs are steamed and then fried before being served with a special sauce. The chewy skin and juicy filling, paired with a sweet and savory sauce, make for a delightful bite.

Another must-try is the "Taichung Rou Yuan," which has been around for nearly 90 years and is a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized delicacy. It offers only three items: Ba-Wan, fish ball soup, and glass noodle soup. The pork filling, seasoned with pepper, is wrapped in a thin, chewy dough, making it a dish worth trying.

Taichung Rou Yuan

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

Taiwanese food 7. Oyster Vermicelli / Intestine Vermicelli

The origins of oyster vermicelli can be traced back to southern Taiwan, where fishermen would cook fresh oysters with vermicelli to restore their energy. Today, many shops offer both oyster vermicelli and large intestine vermicelli as popular options.

A good bowl of oyster vermicelli requires soft but non-mushy noodles, as well as fresh oysters to ensure a rich, savory broth. Properly prepared intestines, which require significant time to marinate, also contribute to the dish’s flavor.

While enjoying this dish, customers can add vinegar, chili, or minced garlic to suit their personal taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the broth.

A must-visit for large intestine vermicelli lovers is "Ay-Chung Vermicelli" in Ximending, Taipei. Established in 1975, it has become an iconic eatery in the area. Since there are no seating areas, many customers enjoy their bowls right outside the shop, creating a unique scene.

Another popular spot is "Shenqiu Intestine Vermicelli" in New Taipei City, which even impressed Netflix’s *Chef’s Table* judge and Michelin-starred chef Anh Sung-Jae. This shop offers a generous serving of ingredients, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Ay-Chung Vermicelli

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

Shenqiu Intestine Vermicelli

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

Taiwanese food 8. Stinky Tofu

Image source: Chou Lao Ban Steamed Stinky Tofu

Stinky tofu is one of Taiwan’s most distinctive snacks, and it evokes polarizing opinions. Fans of stinky tofu consider the pungent smell an indicator of its deliciousness—the stronger the odor, the better the taste. However, for those who dislike it, the smell can be overwhelming.

The unique odor comes from the fermentation process of the tofu. While it smells intense, the tofu is deep-fried to a golden crisp on the outside while remaining soft inside. Served with homemade pickled cabbage and sauces, it becomes an irresistible treat.

In Taiwan, stinky tofu is not only deep-fried but also prepared using other methods, such as steaming. "Chou Lao Ban Steamed Stinky Tofu," located in Nanji Chang Night Market, offers a highly popular steamed version with a rich aroma that is unexpectedly mild upon tasting. It has even earned a spot on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list.

Chou Lao Ban Steamed Stinky Tofu

• 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)

Taiwanese food 9. Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan)

Image source: Michelin Guide

Braised pork rice is a classic Taiwanese street food. Its origins date back to Taiwan’s agricultural era when farmers needed an affordable, energy-rich meal after long hours of labor. They used locally sourced ingredients, slow-cooking pork belly into a savory stew, and served it over rice, creating a satisfying dish.

The magic of braised pork rice lies in its sauce, which infuses the pork with deep flavors after hours of simmering, resulting in tender meat that melts in your mouth. The dish is often garnished with shiitake mushrooms for added texture and umami.

A standout version is found at "Xiao Wang Braised Pork," a Michelin Bib Gourmand selection located in Huaxi Street Night Market. Nicknamed "Black Gold Braised Pork Rice" for its glossy, gelatinous sauce, it pairs perfectly with firm, fragrant rice.

Xiao Wang Braised Pork

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

Taiwanese food 10. Pork Belly Rice (Kong Rou Fan)

Image source: Michelin Guide

Pork belly rice, often referred to as Kong Rou Fan, is believed to have originated in southern Taiwan, particularly in Tainan. Unlike braised pork rice, which uses minced pork, Kong Rou Fan features whole slices of slow-cooked pork belly, resulting in a rich and satisfying texture.

The preparation involves simmering pork belly with spices and seasonings over low heat until the meat is tender but not greasy. The perfect balance of fat and lean meat provides a delightful mouthfeel.

In northern Taiwan, there is a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended restaurant called "Yi Jia Zi," located near the Longshan Temple. Here, visitors can sample both Kong Rou Fan and braised pork rice, along with other traditional Taiwanese snacks like gua bao (pork buns). The restaurant’s use of homemade pickles, tofu, and aged sauces adds a nostalgic flavor to each bite.

Yi Jia Zi Restaurant

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

Taiwanese food 11. Small Sausage in Large Sausage

The small sausage in large sausage is a must-try item at Taiwan's night markets. It features a grilled Taiwanese sausage (small sausage) wrapped in a sticky rice sausage (large sausage). The combination of crispy rice sausage and juicy meat sausage creates a burst of flavors in every bite.

Before serving, it is typically garnished with various toppings such as minced garlic, cilantro, chili, and pickled mustard greens, which enhance the richness of the dish. Eating just one may not be enough to satisfy your cravings!

Taiwanese food 12. Gua Bao (Pork Bun)

Gua Bao, also known as a "pork belly bun" or "tiger bites pig," is a beloved Taiwanese street food. The soft, steamed bun resembles a tiger’s mouth, biting down on a savory filling of braised pork belly. The playful presentation adds to the dish’s charm.

Making the perfect Gua Bao requires careful steaming of the buns to achieve a soft, chewy texture. The key to a great Gua Bao lies in its flavorful filling, usually consisting of braised pork belly with a balanced fat-to-lean ratio. Traditional toppings include crushed peanuts, pickled mustard greens, sugar, and cilantro, which add layers of flavor and texture.

Today, innovative versions of Gua Bao feature fillings such as fried chicken, three-cup chicken, or even vegetarian options, catering to modern tastes. A popular spot for traditional Gua Bao is "Yuan Fang," located in Huaxi Street Night Market. Known for its handmade buns and juicy pork belly, it offers a nostalgic taste that pairs perfectly with a side of Si Shen Tang (herbal soup).

Yuan Fang Gua Bao

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

Taiwanese food 13. Bubble Tea

Image source: Chun Shui Tang

Bubble tea, one of Taiwan’s most famous creations, has become a global sensation. From Asia to Europe and North America, bubble tea shops can now be found worldwide, making the drink synonymous with Taiwanese food culture.

The origins of bubble tea date back to the late 1980s, when traditional milk tea was combined with chewy tapioca pearls to create a unique texture. The customizable sweetness and ice levels cater to individual preferences, with popular options like "less sugar, less ice."

While many shops now offer variations with pudding, grass jelly, and other toppings, tapioca pearls remain the classic favorite. Recommended chains such as "50 Lan" and "Chun Shui Tang" provide reliable starting points for those new to bubble tea, offering a taste of the original flavors with a customizable twist.

Taiwanese food 14. Mango Shaved Ice

Mango shaved ice is a refreshing treat that’s perfect for Taiwan’s hot summer days. This dessert features heaps of golden, juicy mango chunks piled on finely shaved ice. The ice’s smooth texture balances the sweetness of the fruit, and some shops drizzle condensed milk over the top for added richness.

The best mangoes come from southern Taiwan, specifically from Tainan’s Yujing and Pingtung’s Fangshan. Whether eaten fresh or used in desserts like mango smoothies or dried mango snacks, Taiwan’s mangoes offer unparalleled flavor.

Taiwanese food 15. Convenience Store Drinks

Image source: Taiwan Beverage Association

It may sound surprising, but convenience store drinks are considered part of Taiwanese food culture. Many international tourists crave these drinks long after leaving Taiwan, and some are willing to pay a premium just to enjoy them back home. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart offer a wide range of beverages that have captured the hearts of visitors.

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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