Taipei Must-Eats
Top Tourist Food Spots & Classics
Taipei is a food capital that draws millions of visitors each year, and for good reason—its street food, night markets, and iconic restaurants are world-famous! Here’s a guide to some of the most popular spots that every first-time visitor should try, starting with the absolute must-do.
1. Ding Tai Fung (鼎泰豐) – The Legendary Xiao Long Bao
No trip to Taipei is complete without Din Tai Fung, the birthplace of the world-famous soup dumplings. This Michelin-starred chain has become a global icon, but the original Taipei locations still offer the best experience.
Tips for Din Tai Fung:
- Expect long lines (often 1–2 hours), especially at peak times. Go early (right after opening) or late (after 8 PM).
- Order in advance online if available at your branch (some locations offer this).
- The signature pork xiao long bao is a must, but try the truffle version or shrimp & pork too.
- Portions are generous—share dishes to sample more.
- English menus are available, and staff are used to tourists.
Top 3 Branches for Tourists:
- Taipei 101 Branch (4F, Taipei 101 Mall) – Most famous and convenient for shopping tourists. Great views and modern vibe.
- Xinyi Branch (No. 194, Sec. 2, Zhongxing Rd, Xinyi District) – Near Taipei 101 and Xinyi shopping area, slightly less crowded than 101.
- Original Yongkang Street Branch (No. 9-1, Yongkang St) – The historic original location, full of character and atmosphere.
2. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)
This love-it-or-hate-it fermented tofu is a Taipei staple. Crispy outside, soft inside, usually served with pickled cabbage, chili sauce, and garlic.
Top Tourist Spots:
- Shilin Night Market – The classic spot with huge crowds and the most famous stalls.
- Raohe Street Night Market – Slightly less crowded, with great stinky tofu paired with oyster vermicelli.
- Dihua Street – A more traditional, less touristy option near the historic district.
3. Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶)
Taipei is the birthplace of bubble tea! Here are 3 of the most popular chains and spots tourists line up for:
- Chun Shui Tang (春水堂) – The original inventor (since 1983). Go for the classic black tea with pearls.
- Tiger Sugar (老虎堂) – Famous for brown sugar milk tea with chewy pearls—super photogenic and trendy.
- 50 Lan (五十嵐) – A local favorite chain with fresh, customizable options and huge variety.
4. Hot Pot (火鍋)
Hot pot is a social, interactive meal that’s perfect in Taipei’s cooler evenings. Here are 3 popular choices:
- Orange Shabu Shabu (橘色涮涮鍋) – High-end, premium ingredients, and often booked out days in advance. Known for excellent beef and seafood.
- 鼎王麻辣鍋 (Ding Wang Hot Pot) – Classic mala (spicy numbing) hot pot with rich broth and free-flow sides.
- 石二鍋 (Shi Er Hot Pot) – Affordable, quality-focused chain with great value and variety—popular with both locals and tourists.
5. Fried Chicken (鹽酥雞 / 炸雞排)
Taiwanese fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and addictive. You’ll find it everywhere, but these are tourist favorites:
- Ximending – Numerous stalls offering huge chicken fillets (ji pai) and salt & pepper chicken.
- Shilin Night Market – Classic night market fried chicken with all the toppings—garlic, pepper, and chili.
- Raohe Street Night Market – Famous for the giant chicken chop and the iconic “Hot Star Large Chicken” stall.
