Taiwan food questions
What Taiwanese foods should foreign visitors try?
Last checked: September 2026
Short answer
First-time visitors can begin with beef noodle soup, soup dumplings, scallion pancakes, Taiwanese fried chicken, oyster omelettes, braised pork rice, bubble tea, pineapple cakes and night-market snacks.
Taiwan has many regional and local food traditions. Try a mixture of breakfast foods, small snacks, noodle dishes, soups, desserts and drinks rather than relying on only one meal.
Beef noodle soup
Beef noodle soup usually includes noodles, beef and a savoury broth. The flavour, level of spice and type of beef can vary between restaurants.
Questions to ask
- Is the soup spicy?
- What type of beef is used?
- Can I choose the noodle type?
- Does the bowl contain coriander or other ingredients I avoid?
Soup dumplings
Soup dumplings contain filling and hot broth inside a thin wrapper. Allow them to cool slightly and open them carefully because the broth may be very hot.
Questions to ask
- How many dumplings are included in one serving?
- Does the filling contain pork or seafood?
- Is there a vegetarian option?
- Does the restaurant require a minimum order?
Scallion pancakes
Scallion pancakes are a flaky, pan-fried snack that may be served with egg, sauces or other fillings. They are commonly available at breakfast shops and street-food vendors.
Taiwanese fried chicken
Taiwanese fried chicken may be sold as a large piece, smaller pieces or bite-sized pieces. Seasonings can include pepper, basil, chilli or other spices.
Questions to ask
- Is the chicken spicy?
- Can the chilli powder be omitted?
- Does the coating contain wheat or other allergens?
- Is the product cooked in a shared fryer?
Oyster omelette
Oyster omelettes commonly include oysters, egg and a starch-based mixture, often served with a sweet or savoury sauce. They are popular at night markets and traditional food stalls.
Visitors with shellfish allergies should avoid this dish unless a qualified food provider confirms that a safe alternative is available.
Braised pork rice
Braised pork rice is usually served with minced or chopped pork over rice, together with a savoury sauce. Recipes vary by restaurant and region.
Questions to ask
- Does the dish contain pork?
- Does the sauce contain alcohol or other ingredients I avoid?
- Can I add vegetables or an egg?
- Is the portion suitable for one person?
Stinky tofu
Stinky tofu is fermented tofu with a strong aroma. It may be fried or served in other styles, often with pickled vegetables and sauce.
The smell can be strong, so visitors may prefer to try it outdoors at a market or food stall.
Bubble tea
Bubble tea can include tea, milk, fruit, syrup and tapioca pearls. Most shops allow customers to choose sweetness and ice levels.
Useful phrases to understand
- Less sugar.
- No ice.
- Less ice.
- No pearls.
- Takeaway.
Night-market food
Night markets are a popular way to try several small portions rather than ordering one large meal. Popular markets may offer fried chicken, pepper buns, oyster vermicelli, grilled seafood, tofu, noodles, fruit drinks and desserts.
Opening hours and individual stall schedules vary. Many food stalls become busier in the evening, so arrive early if you want shorter queues.
Questions to ask at a night market
- How much does one portion cost?
- Can I pay by cash or card?
- Does the food contain seafood, peanuts, egg or dairy?
- How long will the food take to prepare?
- Is there a place nearby to sit and eat?
Popular Taipei night markets
Raohe Street Tourist Night Market
Raohe Street Night Market is known for a range of traditional snacks, including pepper meat buns, oyster vermicelli, herbal soup and other street foods.
Check current hours and transport information before visiting.
Shilin Night Market
Shilin Night Market is one of Taipei’s best-known night markets and offers food, shopping and entertainment. Individual stall hours can vary.
Linjiang Street Night Market
Linjiang Street Night Market is located in Da’an District and offers a variety of traditional snack foods in an evening market setting.
For current information, check the official Taipei Travel website .
Food allergies and dietary requirements
Visitors with serious allergies should plan carefully and communicate clearly with the restaurant or vendor. Do not rely only on an English menu or a menu photograph.
Before travelling
- Write your allergies in English and Traditional Chinese.
- Carry a translated allergy card.
- Ask about shared cooking equipment and fryers.
- Bring essential medication according to medical advice.
- Choose restaurants that can answer ingredient questions clearly.
Useful questions
- Does this contain peanuts?
- Does this contain seafood?
- Does this contain egg or dairy?
- Is this vegetarian?
- Is this cooked in a shared fryer?
Do visitors need to tip?
Tipping practices vary. Check the bill to see whether a service charge is included and confirm the total before paying.
How much food should I order?
If you are trying unfamiliar food, start with small portions and share where possible. This lets you try more dishes and reduces the chance of wasting food.
Official food information
Taiwan’s Tourism Administration provides information about Taiwanese cuisine and food traditions. You can read its official Taiwan food information .
Taipei’s official tourism website also provides current information about individual night markets and food destinations.