Taiwan · tool
Taipei food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Taipei.
What to eat in Taipei
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Lu Rou Fan (滷肉飯)
Braised pork belly over rice, this humble dish is Taiwanese comfort food at its finest, with a rich, savory sauce that seeps into every grain of rice.
Xiao Long Bao (小籠包)
Delicate soup dumplings filled with pork and hot broth, these are a testament to Taiwanese dim sum mastery. Be careful not to burn yourself on the scalding soup!
Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵)
A hearty, flavorful broth (either clear or braised) with tender chunks of beef and chewy noodles, often considered Taiwan's national dish.
Gua Bao (割包)
Also known as the 'Taiwanese hamburger,' this steamed bun is stuffed with tender braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, cilantro, and crushed peanuts.
Oyster Omelet (蚵仔煎)
A savory omelet made with fresh oysters, eggs, and sweet potato starch, giving it a unique chewy texture and often served with a sweet chili sauce.
Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶)
The original home of this globally popular drink, featuring chewy tapioca pearls in sweetened milk tea. Taste the authentic version where it all began.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bustling, youthful, and vibrant
Chic cafes, trendy restaurants, and upscale dining
Iconic, energetic night market chaos
Traditional, lively night market
Dietary notes
Taiwanese cuisine is heavily reliant on pork, seafood, and soy products, making strict vegetarian or vegan options sometimes challenging to find outside of dedicated vegetarian restaurants. Many dishes contain oyster sauce or shrimp paste. Gluten-free options are also difficult due to soy sauce and flour-based ingredients.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; it's often included in the bill or not expected.
- •Carry cash, especially for night markets and smaller eateries, though larger establishments accept cards.
- •It's polite to slurp your noodles; it shows enjoyment and helps cool them down.
- •When eating at a communal table, wait for elders or the host to begin eating before you start.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
Plan the rest of your Taipei trip
Food guides elsewhere