Irrawaddy

Irrawaddy is one of the few Yunnan restaurants in Hualien, and one of the even fewer really good Yunnan restaurants in Taiwan. Its great food has meant it has already established quite a name for itself in Hualien, and is often fully booked out. Aside from the food, Irrawaddy is distinctive as one of very few Japanese style houses that has been turned into a restaurant after being renovated. The wide and open dining space, attentiveness of the staff, and attractive touches, such as the beautiful silver cups and bowls with ornate engravings, make it memorable.

But if you are more interested in the food side of things, Dapao pork (打拋豬肉) is a great choice, its strong flavor making it the perfect accompaniment to rice. Shrimp cakes (蝦餅), a sort of crisp bread covered with fresh shrimps and a sweet sauce, are also a great choice that are sure to be eaten up quickly. There are also several desserts, including sago soup (西米露), a common dish found in Yunnan. While this is definitely a Yunnan restaurant, the owners have cleverly adjusted the flavor to suit Taiwanese taste-buds, such that the sourness and spiciness of Yunnan food have been reduced. If Irrawaddy sounds like your kind of place, make sure you first book ahead- this place is very popular!