These Taiwanese Foods You Must Try on Your Next Holiday to Taiwan

Taiwan is celebrated not only for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture, gorgeous beaches and iconic landmarks – it’s also a real paradise for food lovers. Known by many as the “heart of Asia”, Taiwan’s food scene is sure to impress even the most seasoned of travellers.

In this blog, we’re taking a deep dive into the eclectic flavours of Taiwan – highlighting the best dishes, street food and even the drinks to try out on your next visit. If you’re the type of traveller who loves to explore a destination through its culinary offering, this blog is your ultimate guide to the amazing food scene on offer in Taiwan.

Here are the best Taiwanese dishes you should try on your next holiday

Here is the list of Taiwan’s Main Dishes

1. Beef Noodle Soup (Niú ròu miàn)

Beef noodle soup is a beloved Taiwanese comfort food, which is why it is the national food of Taiwan. This dish is popular for its tender braised beef, rich broth, and chewy handmade noodles. It’s the perfect balance of savoury, spicy, and aromatic, which is often enhanced with pickled vegetables and fresh herbs. This iconic dish is a must-try for you whenever you next visit here. For the best experience, you can head to Yong Kang Beef Noodle in Taipei. It is famous for its deep, complex broth. Otherwise, you can also go to Liu Shandong Beef Noodles to enjoy a more traditional taste. Night markets and local diners across Taiwan also offer excellent versions of this dish and each having its own regional twist on this hearty classic.

2. Taiwanese Egg Crêpe Roll (Dan Bing)

The Taiwanese Egg Crêpe Roll (Dan bing) is another popular dish, which is also a staple breakfast in many places across the country. The dish is loved for its crispy yet chewy texture and fillings like cheese, ham, or scallions. Its versatility and flavour make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. It is often served with sweet soy or chilli sauce. Needless to say, it is a perfect start to any day in Taiwan. For the best experience of this dish, you can go to Taipei’s Fu Hang Soy Milk. It’s a true taste of Taiwan’s morning culture.

3. Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan/Ló͘-bah-pn̄g)

Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan) is also counted among Taiwanese comfort food. The dish has minced pork, which is slow-cooked in soy sauce, rice wine, and aromatic spices, then served over steamed rice. Its rich, savoury flavour and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a must-try dish. Simple yet deeply satisfying. Jin Feng Lu Rou Fan in Taipei is a famous place where you can enjoy this dish. You will also find excellent versions of this in Tainan, where it has a slightly sweeter twist reflecting southern Taiwanese tastes.

4. Stinky Tofu

Stinky tofu is one of Taiwan’s most amazing street foods. People relish its crispy exterior and soft centre, making it a great snack that fans can’t get enough of. It is fermented to perfection and is often served deep-fried with pickled cabbage or grilled with spicy sauce. One of the best places to enjoy them is at Taiwan’s famous night markets, especially Shilin Night Market in Taipei and Fengjia Night Market in Taichung. For food lovers seeking bold flavours, stinky tofu is a must-try experience that captures the heart of Taiwanese street cuisine.

 5. Oyster vermicelli

Oyster vermicelli is known for its rich broth, silky wheat vermicelli, and fresh, briny oysters. It is often topped with cilantro and a splash of black vinegar or chilli sauce, and it offers a comforting, umami-packed experience. The dish is especially popular in night markets and local food stalls, and Ay Chung Flour-Rice Noodle in Taipei’s Ximending area is famous for serving some amazing Oyster vermicelli.

6. Scallion Pancakes (Cong you bing)

Scallion pancakes in Taiwan are crispy, flaky, and bursting with savoury green onion flavour. It is made fresh on sizzling griddles, and they are often customised with egg, cheese, or even spicy sauces. The dough’s chewy texture and golden layers make it a beloved street snack. You can head straight to Taipei’s Yonghe district or grab a hot, freshly made one from a vendor at Raohe Night Market. Taichung’s Zhongxiao Night Market also offers famous variations that you will like. Whether plain or loaded, scallion pancakes are a must-try Taiwanese comfort food that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying.

7. Wontons in Chili Oil

Wontons in chili oil are favourites here! This dish features silky dumplings that are filled with seasoned pork, tossed in a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet chilli sauce. The contrast of tender wonton skins and bold, flavourful oil makes every bite irresistible. This dish balances heat with umami, often topped with garlic, scallions, or crushed peanuts for extra texture. One of the best places to enjoy this delicacy is Din Tai Fung, renowned for its consistent quality, or at local night markets like Raohe Street Night Market, where small vendors serve authentic, fiery versions that locals love. Don’t miss this bold classic!

8. Pork Belly Buns (Guabao)

Pork belly buns, also known as gua bao, are another not-to-miss dish in Taiwan. It has tender, braised pork belly tucked into a fluffy steamed bun with pickled mustard greens, crushed peanuts, and cilantro. The contrast of rich, melt-in-your-mouth meat with tangy, crunchy toppings creates an irresistible bite. This savoury snack is often called the “Taiwanese hamburger” for good reason. One of the best places to enjoy this dish is Lan Jia Gua Bao near National Taiwan University in Taipei. Their perfectly balanced flavours and juicy pork have earned them a cult following, making it a must-visit spot for any food lover in Taiwan.

9. Xiao long bao

Xiao Long Bao, or soup dumplings, are one of the best delicacies in all of Taiwan. These soft dumplings are filled with pork and rich broth, bursting with flavour in every bite. The thin, handmade wrapper holds the perfect balance of juiciness and tenderness. In Taiwan, the best place to enjoy Xiao Long Bao is Din Tai Fung, the world-renowned restaurant originally founded in Taipei. With expert craftsmanship and consistent quality, it offers an unforgettable experience for dumpling lovers. For a more local vibe, Hangzhou Xiaolong Tangbao near Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall also serves exceptional, authentic versions.

List of Taiwan’s Tastiest Street Foods

10. Fried Chicken Cutlet

Taiwan’s Fried Chicken Cutlet is a crispy, juicy delight that has become a street food icon. Pounded thin, seasoned with a blend of spices, and deep-fried to golden perfection, it offers the perfect crunch with every bite. What sets it apart is the bold seasoning, often a mix of pepper, basil, and chilli powder. The best place to enjoy this treat is at Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken in Taipei’s Shilin Night Market, where it all began. Known for its massive size and unbeatable flavour, it’s a must-try for any food lover exploring Taiwan’s vibrant night market scene.

11. Sausage in Sticky Rice

Sausage in Sticky Rice, known locally as “big sausage wrapped in small sausage”, is a beloved Taiwanese street food. It features a juicy grilled pork sausage wrapped in glutinous rice “buns,” often garnished with garlic, pickled vegetables, and sweet or spicy sauces. The smoky flavour and chewy texture make it incredibly satisfying. For the best experience, head to night markets like Raohe Street Night Market in Taipei or Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung, where vendors grill it fresh to order. It’s the perfect grab-and-go snack while exploring Taiwan’s vibrant street food culture.

12. Sweet Potato Balls

Sweet potato balls are a scrumptious Taiwanese street snack known for their crispy exterior and chewy, mochi-like centre. The dish is made from sweet potato and tapioca flour. They are lightly sweet, golden, and irresistibly bouncy. These bite-sized treats are best enjoyed hot and fresh from night market stalls, where they’re fried to perfection. Shilin Night Market in Taipei or Fengjia Night Market in Taichung are two places where you get generous portions with optional toppings like plum powder or condensed milk. Their simple ingredients and addictive texture make them a must-try for any foodie in Taiwan.

13. Taiwanese Tempura

Taiwanese tempura, locally known as tianbula, is a chewy, fish cake-based street snack that’s deep-fried and often served with sweet-savoury sauce. Unlike the Japanese version, Taiwan’s tempura is softer and slightly sweet, making it uniquely satisfying. It’s often accompanied by fresh garlic or pickled vegetables for an extra kick. For the best experience you can head to Tamsui Old Street in New Taipei City, where vendors have perfected this local favourite over generations. The seaside atmosphere, rich history, and authentic flavours make Tamsui the ultimate destination to savour Taiwanese tempura at its finest.

14. Grilled Corn

Grilled corn in Taiwan is a smoky delight that perfectly balances sweetness, spice, and umami. Slathered in a soy-based glaze often mixed with garlic, chilli, or miso, the corn is grilled over charcoal for a rich, caramelised flavour and satisfying crunch. This street food favourite is best enjoyed fresh off the grill at Taiwan’s famous night markets. Shilin Night Market in Taipei, Fengjia Night Market in Taichung, and Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung are top spots where vendors serve it hot and perfectly charred. Each bite captures the essence of Taiwan’s vibrant street food culture.

15. Asparagus Salad

Asparagus salad in Taiwan is a refreshing, healthy dish that showcases the island’s love for fresh, local produce. Made with crisp, tender green asparagus often paired with cherry tomatoes, boiled eggs, or sesame dressing, it offers a light yet flavourful bite. Taiwan’s mild climate allows for high-quality asparagus, especially from regions like Yunlin and Chiayi. You can enjoy asparagus salad at local farm-to-table restaurants or during spring food festivals in central Taiwan, where it’s served at its freshest. It’s a perfect appetiser or side dish for health-conscious travellers looking to taste Taiwan’s seasonal bounty.

List of Taiwan’s Desserts

16. Mochi (麻糬)

Mochi in Taiwan is soft, chewy, and delightfully versatile, often filled with sweet red bean, peanut, or sesame paste. Unlike its Japanese counterpart, Taiwanese mochi is typically served fresh and can be found both as a street snack and a dessert gift. Hualien is especially famous for its mochi, where local shops craft handmade versions using traditional techniques and fresh ingredients. You can visit Tzen-Mochi or Ah Mei Mochi in Hualien, where you can enjoy this delicious treat.

17. Taro Balls

Taro balls are a beloved Taiwanese dessert known for their chewy texture and subtle sweetness. Made from mashed taro and sweet potato flour, they’re often served in refreshing shaved ice or warm sweet soups. Their delightful chewiness makes them a popular treat year-round. The best place to enjoy taro balls in Taiwan is Jiufen, a charming mountain town where the dessert is freshly handmade and served with red beans, sweet potato balls, and herbal jelly. Jiufen’s famous Ah Gan Yi Taro Ball shop offers a scenic view with every bowl, making the experience as memorable as the taste itself.

18. Pineapple Cake

Pineapple cake is one of Taiwan’s most beloved treats, known for its buttery crust and sweet, tangy pineapple filling. It symbolises good luck and hospitality, making it a popular gift. The perfect balance of sweet and tart makes it irresistible. Visit SunnyHills in Taipei or Chia Te Bakery, both famous for using real pineapple and top-quality ingredients. These bakeries offer not just a delicious snack, but a taste of Taiwanese culture. Enjoy it fresh with tea, or take a box home as a flavourful souvenir from your Taiwan adventure.

19. Shaved Ice

Shaved ice in Taiwan is the ultimate cool-down treat, especially during the hot, humid summer months. This beloved dessert features ultra-fine ice topped with sweet ingredients like fresh mango, condensed milk, red beans, taro balls, or grass jelly. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavours that makes it both refreshing and satisfying. You can best enjoy the Taiwanese shaved ice, is at Ice Monster in Taipei, famous for its generous mango toppings, or Smoothie House near Yongkang Street. Night markets across Taiwan, like Shilin or Raohe, also offer fantastic versions, making it a must-try for dessert lovers exploring the island.

20. Aiyu Jelly

Aiyu jelly is a refreshing Taiwanese dessert made from the seeds of the aiyu fig, prized for its light, citrusy flavour and natural jelly texture. It’s especially popular in Taiwan’s hot summers, often served with lemon juice or honey for a cooling treat. What makes it special is that it’s all-natural, low-calorie, and incredibly thirst-quenching. The best place to enjoy aiyu jelly is in southern Taiwan, particularly in the Alishan region, where the aiyu fruit grows. You will also find delicious versions in night markets across Taiwan, especially in Tainan and Chiayi, served cold and freshly made.

List of Taiwan’s Drinks

21. Bubble Milk Tea

Bubble milk tea, Taiwan’s most iconic drink, is a delightful blend of sweet milk tea and chewy tapioca pearls. Loved for its rich flavour and fun texture, it’s a refreshing treat perfect for any time of day. In Taiwan, bubble tea shops are everywhere, but for the best experience, visit Chun Shui Tang in Taichung, where the drink was invented, or Tiger Sugar in Taipei for bold brown sugar flavours. Night markets like Shilin or Raohe also offer unique local versions. Whether it is classic or creative, bubble milk tea in Taiwan is a must-try for first-time visitors and seasoned foodies alike.

22. Winter Melon Tea

Winter melon tea is a beloved Taiwanese drink known for its subtly sweet, refreshing taste and cooling properties, perfect for the island’s humid climate. Made from caramelised winter melon, this caffeine-free beverage can be enjoyed hot or cold, often with added lemon or tapioca pearls. It’s especially popular during summer, but locals enjoy it year-round. You can visit traditional tea shops in Tainan, considered the birthplace of winter melon tea, where it is still brewed using time-honoured methods. Shops like “Yi Xin Winter Melon Tea” serve some of the most authentic versions, offering a true taste of Taiwan’s beverage heritage.

23. Grass Jelly Drink

Grass jelly drink is one of Taiwan’s most refreshing traditional beverages, perfect for cooling down in the island’s tropical climate. Made from the mesona plant, it has a slightly bitter, herbal flavour balanced by sweet syrup or milk. It’s often served chilled with chewy toppings like tapioca pearls or aiyu jelly, making it both hydrating and satisfying. This drink is beloved for its digestive benefits and unique texture. You can always enjoy grass jelly drinks at local night markets like Shilin in Taipei or Liuhe in Kaohsiung, where vendors craft it fresh and customise it to your taste.

List of Taiwan’s Traditional Dishes

24. Milkfish Soup

Milkfish soup is a beloved Taiwanese comfort food, especially popular in the southern city of Tainan. Known for its rich, savoury broth and tender, boneless milkfish belly, this dish offers a clean, nourishing taste that’s both satisfying and light. Often served with ginger and scallions, it’s perfect for breakfast or a late-night meal. The best place to enjoy authentic milkfish soup is in Tainan, where it originated. Visit local favourites like A Xia Milkfish Congee or Chou’s Shrimp Rolls to experience it at its finest. Fresh and deeply rooted in tradition, it’s a must-try in southern Taiwan.

25. Ba-Wan

Ba-wan is a beloved Taiwanese street food featuring a chewy, translucent dough made from sweet potato starch, filled with a savoury mix of pork, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms. Its unique texture and sweet-salty sauce make it a must-try. Often deep-fried or steamed, it’s a comforting snack found in night markets and local stalls. Head to Changhua, widely considered the birthplace of ba-wan, where traditional vendors have perfected the recipe over generations. Try Ah Zhu Ba-Wan in Changhua City for an authentic taste that captures the heart of this classic Taiwanese delicacy.

26. Three-Cup Chicken

Three-Cup Chicken is one of Taiwan’s most beloved traditional dishes, known for its rich, aromatic flavour. Made with equal parts soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil, plus garlic, ginger, and basil, this sizzling clay pot dish offers a perfect balance of savoury, sweet, and herbal notes. Its tender, juicy texture and fragrant sauce make it unforgettable. Make way to Jiufen or Shilin Night Market in Taipei, where local eateries serve it piping hot with authentic flair. These spots offer both cosy ambience and bold flavours that truly capture Taiwan’s culinary soul.

Conclusion

Taiwan has always been a culinary paradise where every bite and sip tells a story of culture, tradition, and innovation. The varied delicacies and drinks that you get across the nation are one of the prominent reasons for repeated visits for many travellers. From bustling night markets to fine-dining eateries, Taiwan has a rich tapestry of flavours that are surely going to satiate your taste buds. From savoury street food staples to comforting noodle soups and sweet treats, the island’s diverse food scene is going to keep you hooked throughout the trip.