Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a paradise for street food lovers. From sizzling skewers to sweet bubble teas, the city’s bustling night markets and alleyway vendors serve up a tantalizing array of snacks that reflect Taiwan’s rich culinary heritage and cosmopolitan flair. For anyone visiting this foodie haven, sampling street food is more than a meal; it’s a cultural experience.
Here’s your guide to where to find the must-try street food in Taipei, and what you absolutely shouldn’t leave without tasting.
1. Shilin Night Market
Location: No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei
What to Try:
- Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken: This palm-sized piece of crispy, peppery chicken cutlet is iconic. Deep-fried to golden perfection, it’s crunchy on the outside, juicy inside, and generously seasoned.
- Oyster Omelette: A savory-sweet combo of eggs, oysters, and a gooey sauce that’s uniquely Taiwanese.
- Stinky Tofu: The infamous fermented tofu with a pungent aroma that belies its deliciousness. Served crispy with pickled cabbage and chili sauce.
Pro Tip: Head inside the market building for even more food stalls and try the traditional shaved ice or peanut ice cream rolls.
2. Raohe Night Market
Location: Raohe Street, Songshan District, Taipei
What to Try:
- Black Pepper Bun (Hújiāo Bǐng): Watch it baked in a traditional tandoor-style oven! These buns are stuffed with juicy minced pork, scallions, and black pepper, all encased in a crispy, sesame-coated crust.
- Grilled Mochi: Chewy rice cakes grilled to order, then dipped in sweet sauces or peanut powder.
- Beef Noodle Soup: A Taiwanese classic served in a rich, slow-cooked broth with tender chunks of beef.
Pro Tip: Start from the Ciyou Temple side for the most photogenic entry point and snack your way down the street.
3. Ningxia Night Market
Location: Ningxia Road, Datong District, Taipei
What to Try:
- Luwei (滷味): A customizable braised dish where you pick from tofu, noodles, meats, and veggies, which are simmered in a savoury soy-based broth.
- Sweet Peanut Soup with Rice Balls: Comfort food at its finest – creamy, nutty, and slightly sweet.
- Egg Yolk Taros Ball: A unique, starchy-sweet snack with a molten yolk centre.
Pro Tip: This market is more compact and feels more local; perfect for travellers who want an authentic, slightly less touristy vibe.
4. Tonghua (Linjiang) Night Market
Location: Linjiang Street, Da’an District, Taipei
What to Try:
- Popcorn Chicken: Battered and fried with Thai basil, this addictive snack is perfect with a bubble tea in hand.
- Taiwanese Sausage Wrapped in Sticky Rice (大腸包小腸): A sausage-in-a-sausage, where a glutinous rice “bun” hugs a sweet-salty Taiwanese pork sausage.
- Grilled Corn: Slathered in soy sauce glaze and grilled over charcoal for an intense flavour.
Pro Tip: It’s less chaotic than Shilin and easier to explore on a casual stroll; great for a laid-back evening.
5. Yongkang Street
Location: Near Dongmen MRT Station, Da’an District, Taipei
What to Try:
- Scallion Pancakes: Crispy, chewy, and often topped with egg, cheese, or ham. The line is worth the wait.
- Mango Shaved Ice (at Smoothie House): A towering mountain of finely shaved ice, loaded with fresh mango chunks and condensed milk.
- Beef Rolls: A flaky flatbread rolled with scallions, cucumber, and marinated beef slices.
Pro Tip: Come during the day or early evening – Yongkang is better known for brunch-style snacks and early dinners than late-night eats.
Taipei’s street food scene isn’t just about eating; it’s about connection, history, and discovery. Night markets are a cornerstone of Taiwanese life, where generations gather to snack, socialize, and sample their favourite dishes.
So next time you’re in town, grab your chopsticks (or just use your hands), bring an empty stomach, and follow the aromas. Your next unforgettable meal is just a street corner away.
