Taiwanese xiǎochī (translated as “small pieces”) are famous all over the world. It’s unlikely that your trip can be considered a success if you don’t try what the street vendors offer. The best way to experience Taiwanese street food is at the notorious night markets, which are found in almost every city.
Pearl tea in Taipei
Night markets are an important part of Taipei life. The oldest and largest market (operating since 1910) is called Shilin. They sell a variety of snacks (xiǎochī), from oyster omelette to various types of tofu. An equally interesting place is the Gongguan market, where you can try popular steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables. But the most popular is the Chen San Ding Pearl Milk teahouse, which specializes in various pearl teas (qīngwā zhuàng nǎi).
“Iron Eggs” in Tamsui
Tamsui is famous throughout Taiwan for its snacks. The most popular of them are fish chips (yú sū),
which can be found on sale throughout the city, as well as chicken balls marinated in soy sauce. The best choice of street food is on Gongming Street, which runs parallel to the river.
Seafood in Keelung
Keelung Market was built during the Japanese occupation and has been famous for its seafood, rice noodles and popsicles ever since. By the way, this is one of the few markets in the country that operate around the clock. The place is popular, so the name and description of each dish must be written in English.
Cutlets in Hsinchu
Hsinchu markets are always fun. And delicious: pork meatballs (gòngwántāng),
Rice noodles (mĭfēn) and Taiwanese cutlets (ròyuán) are what this region is famous for. The main night market is located in the Chenghuang Temple area, which is marked on all maps and familiar to any taxi driver.
Fish soup in Jiufen
If you find yourself in coastal Jiufen, be sure to check out Jishan Street, famous for its culinary stalls. The program includes fish ball soup,
taro balls and baked mushrooms. And after that you can visit the Jiufen Teahouse, which is rightfully considered one of the best in the country.
Shrimp in Lugang
Lugang, one of Taiwan’s oldest port cities, specializes in xiǎochī. The most popular dishes are oyster omelette (é a jiān) and shrimp with basil (xiāhóuzi). The best place to try them is at the kiosks opposite Tianhou Temple. And for dessert it’s worth taking local cookies (niúshébǐng).
Sweets in Taichung
Taichung, like other cities, does a good job of presenting local cuisine, but if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss Ziyou, Zhongzheng and Minquan streets. There you will find local baked goods with wheat germ, honey and taro — tàiyáng bǐng.
Danzi noodles in Tainan
The former capital of Taiwan will offer dishes based on the oldest recipes. The most famous of them is Dānzǐmiàn, noodles with egg and shrimp or pork. Equally popular here are omelettes, bread with vegetables and seafood, and shrimp rolls.
Biǎnshí cake in Hualien
Hualien is famous for muaji sweets, made from sticky rice with a sweet filling. Taiwanese dumplings, which are usually eaten with soup, are also very good here. They are made with a variety of fillings: shrimp, fish or pork. The most accessible market in the city is called Ziqiang, which is very conveniently located. But there is a more extensive and varied Nanbin, although it is more difficult and longer to get to.
Blood soup in Taitung
This dish is suitable for those who are not used to being picky: zhūxiě tāng soup is made from pig blood and is considered a local delicacy. If you decide, the best place to try it is at the Siwei market. Fans of less extreme dishes should check out the fruit market, located between Zhongshan and Boai streets.
Source: roughguides.com
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