Taiwanese food is a mix of Fujian, Guangdong, Hakka, and Japanese cuisines. Fresh seafood, simple ingredients and bold flavors make it unique.
Walk around the streets in Taiwan, the food choices can be overwhelming—so much to try! Here's a list of 20 must-try dishes. From beef noodles to crispy pepper buns, we'll take you to Taiwan's best flavors.
Street Food Favorites
1.Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎)
Oyster OmeletteStep into any Taiwanese night market, Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎) is a must-try. Legend says it was invented by Koxinga's army during a food shortage—oysters, sweet potato starch, and eggs pan-fried into a surprisingly tasty meal.
Today, it's made with oysters, eggs, and greens in a starchy batter. Each vendor has their twist—some go crisp, others soft. The best versions have crispy edges, a chewy center, and are topped with sweet and spicy sauce.
2.Bao Bun (刈包, Pork Sandwich)
Bao Bun/ Gua BaoBao Bun (刈包), often called the "Taiwanese hamburger", comes from Fuzhou's lotus leaf bun. In Taiwan, its wallet-like shape and rich fillings make it a symbol of wealth and luck.
The soft, fluffy bun holds a slice of tender braised pork, crunchy pickled veggies, peanut powder, and fresh cilantro—each bite is rich, balanced, and full of flavor.
3.Pepper Pork Cake (胡椒猪肉饼)
Pepper Pork CakeCraving something spicy? Try Pepper Pork Cake (胡椒饼). Originally from Fuzhou, this snack has evolved in Taiwan due to local improvements and a misheard name.
Locals swear by one rule—buy it while waiting in line. That way, you could watch the whole process, and get it fresh from the oven. The sesame-coated crust is crispy, while the juicy pork inside packs a bold black pepper punch. Scallions add freshness, balancing the flavor. Just be careful—don't burn your mouth!
4.Taiwanese Fried Chicken Cutlet (炸鸡排)
Taiwanese Fried Chicken CutletTaiwanese Fried Chicken Cutlet (炸鸡排) is huge, juicy, and wrapped in a golden, crispy crust. Vendors serve it whole to keep the juices in, so every bite stays tender and satisfying.
It began decades ago when a local couple used cheap, overlooked chicken breast to make something tasty and affordable. Their crispy creation caught on fast and became a street food favorite across Taiwan.
5.Taiwanese Octopus Balls (章鱼烧, Takoyaki)
Taiwanese Octopus Balls/ TakoyakiTaiwanese Octopus Balls (章鱼烧) comes from Japan but have their own twist. Unlike the Japanese version, these are crispier on the outside and packed with soft, savory filling inside. Topped with seaweed flakes and bonito, they're a must-try night market snack.
Vendors even compete to make the biggest ones, and you might find some larger than your fist!
6.Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)
Fried Stinky TofuStinky Tofu (臭豆腐) is known for its strong smell but surprisingly delicious taste. Legend says it was first created by a tofu vendor in China's mainland who tried fermenting tofu and found it unexpectedly tasty. The funky aroma didn't stop it from becoming popular, even making it onto Empress Dowager Cixi's tribute list.
In Taiwan's night markets, stinky tofu is soaked in fermented brine, giving it a soft texture and strong smell. After frying and pickling, it becomes a crispy, flavorful snack. For beginners, try the fried version which is less pungent. If you're feeling adventurous, go for the boiled one! Not ready? Pinch your nose and walk past quickly!
7.Sweet Potato Balls (地瓜球)
Sweet Potato BallsFor a sweet and savory treat, try Sweet Potato Balls (地瓜球). They look like little ping pong balls, with a crispy outer shell filled with air and a chewy center.
Sprinkle with sour plum powder, and you'll find yourself munching one after another without even realizing it.
8.Taiwanese Sausage with Sticky Rice (大肠包小肠)
Taiwanese Sausage with Sticky RiceFor something unique, try Taiwanese Sausage with Sticky Rice (大肠包小肠). It's like a hot dog, but with sticky rice sausage instead of a bun.
The rice sausage is sliced open, topped with pickled cabbage, crushed peanuts, and fresh basil, then filled with juicy pork sausage. The chewy rice, savory sausage, and crunchy toppings make for a satisfying, mess-free snack. Perfect for enjoying while strolling through the night market.
9.Chicken Wings Wrapped Rice (鸡翅包饭)
Chicken Wings Wrapped RiceChicken Wings Wrapped Rice (鸡翅包饭) is a hearty snack. It was first created by a creative chef who deboned chicken wings, filled them with seasoned rice, and cooked them together. This kept the chicken juicy while adding the soft, fragrant rice texture.
Grilled to golden perfection, the crispy chicken skin turns slightly sweet. The rich chicken fat blends perfectly with the sticky rice, while corn and peas add extra texture in every bite.
10.Scallion Pancake (葱油饼)
Scallion PancakeScallion Pancake (葱油饼) is a simple yet beloved Taiwanese snack. It's said to have originated from a monk in the Eastern Jin dynasty. During wartime in Hubei, he made pancakes with flour, scallions, and oil to feed hungry villagers. The recipe spread as he traveled. Later, tea master Lu Yu improved it during the Tang dynasty, turning it into the scallion pancake we enjoy today.
The pancake is crispy and golden-brown with soft, flaky layers and a strong green onion aroma. For variety, try it with an egg, or add basil, sausage, or shredded cabbage. Each bite is crunchy and filled with the fresh, aromatic flavor of scallions, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Hearty Staple Dishes
11.Beef Noodles (牛肉面)
Beef NoodlesAfter World War II, soldiers from China's mainland arrived in Taiwan with the Republic of China government. They combined flavors from their homeland with local Taiwanese ingredients, giving birth to Taiwanese beef noodle.
Imagine a steaming bowl of beef noodles in front of you. The rich, slow-cooked broth releases a deep, inviting aroma. The noodles are smooth and springy, and the tender braised beef melts in your mouth. With no overpowering spices, just pure, honest flavors, each sip of the broth soothes and warms you.
12.Lu Rou Fan(卤肉饭, braised pork rice)
Lu Rou FanIf you don't mind pork, try Lu Rou Fan（卤肉饭）—a simple dish, yet packed with irresistible flavors. Tender pork is chopped into small pieces, soaked in a savory-sweet sauce, and served over fluffy rice.
In early Taiwan, meat was a luxury. People couldn't afford whole cuts of pork, so they used small cuts, braised them, and combined it with rice. This dish became the foundation for today's beloved braised pork rice.
13.Dan Zai Noodles (担仔面)
Dan Zai NoodlesDan Zai Noodles（担仔面） is a traditional Tainan dish. The name comes from the Taiwanese word for shoulder poling. Legend says a fisherman invented it. Unable to fish due to bad weather, he sold noodles from a pole.
The dish is simple but satisfying. The light broth has a fresh shrimp flavor. Topped with shrimp, minced pork, and bean sprouts, each bite is flavorful and comforting.
14.Vermicelli Soup (面线)
Vermicelli SoupIf you're craving something light, try Vermicelli Soup (面线). The noodles are thin and soft, swimming in a smooth, porridge-like pork bone broth that melts in your mouth. Topped with oysters or pig intestines, it's a comforting dish for everyone, even those with sensitive teeth. For extra flavor, add chili and garlic paste for a spicy kick.
Quick tip: Locals joke that the noodles "reproduce" in the bowl, meaning they soak up the broth and expand—so eat quickly before it grows too much!
15.Taiwanese Three-Cup Chicken (台式三杯鸡)
Three-Cup ChickenTaiwanese Three-Cup Chicken is a beloved homemade dish that originated from Jiangxi. The name "Three-Cup" comes from the three main ingredients—one cup of Taiwanese rice wine, one cup of soy sauce, and one cup of sesame oil.
The chicken is tender, juicy, and coated in a rich sauce, with fresh basil adding a unique fragrance. It's the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, making it ideal with rice.
Sweets Treats and Desserts
16.Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶, Boba Milk Tea)
milk teaNo visit to Taiwan is complete without Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶). First created in Taiwan, it quickly became a global sensation, with many still believing the most authentic version can only be found in Taiwan.
The classic bubble tea combines chewy black tapioca pearls with creamy milk tea, offering a smooth, satisfying flavor. Some variations add black sugar to the pearls for extra sweetness. For a lighter option, refreshing fruit teas are now also available. Try the traditional version made with fresh milk and real tea leaves for a smoother, more fragrant, and healthier choice compared to powdered versions.
17.Aiyu Jelly (爱玉冻)
Aiyu JellyAiyu Jelly (爱玉冻) is a rare treat found almost exclusively in Taiwan. Made from the natural pectin of the aiyu plant, unique to Taiwan, it's hard to find outside the island. Its smooth, silky texture makes it the perfect way to cool down on hot days.
This guilt-free dessert is low in calories. Try it with lemon and honey water, or customize it with your favorite toppings. One sip, and you'll taste the essence of a Taiwanese summer.
18.Peanut Ice Cream Roll (花生冰淇淋卷)
Peanut Ice Cream RollPeanut Ice Cream Roll (花生冰淇淋卷) is a unique Taiwanese dessert found mostly in Yilan. It's believed to have been created during the Japanese colonial era in Taiwan, when Japanese people combined peanut candy and ice cream into this treat.
A thin crepe-like wrap holds scoops of ice cream, freshly shaved peanut candy, and a sprinkle of cilantro. The combination of creamy, nutty, and herbal flavors might surprise you, but it's what makes this treat unforgettable. Some love it, some skip the cilantro—but either way, it's a must-try when exploring Taiwan.
19.Shaved Snow Ice (雪花绵绵冰)
Shaved Snow IceShaved Snow Ice (雪花绵绵冰) is a fluffy twist on traditional shaved ice. In the 1970s, a woman named Ms. Kao in Taiwan invented it because she loved icy treats, and wanted something with the refreshment of shaved ice and the creamy softness of ice cream.
Unlike crunchy ice, Shaved Snow Ice has a feather-light, melt-in-your-mouth texture—like eating sweet, frozen clouds. Popular flavors include mango, matcha, and milk, topped with fruit, boba, or condensed milk.
20.Pineapple Cake (凤梨酥)
Pineapple CakePineapple Cake (凤梨酥)is one of Taiwan's most iconic pastries. Legend has it that during the Three Kingdoms period, when Liu Bei married Sun Quan's sister, the engagement cakes featured a pineapple filling. This tradition later evolved in Taiwan, with a buttery, crumbly crust surrounding a filling made from pineapple and winter melon.
The cake has a soft, milky crust that melts in your mouth, and the filling strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. It's delightfully crumbly, so be careful of the falling crumbs! It's also suitable to bring home as a great souvenir.
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