1. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)
Stinky tofu is a polarizing delicacy that many find either repulsive or irresistible. Fermented in a brine of milk, vegetables, and meat, this dish emits a strong odor but boasts a crispy exterior and soft interior.
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Where to Try: Shilin Night Market
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Price Range: $2-$4 per serving
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Serving Style: Typically deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage and a spicy sauce.
Did You Know? Despite its pungent smell, stinky tofu is packed with probiotics, making it a healthy snack option.
2. Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎)
A staple at almost every night market, the oyster omelette combines fresh oysters with eggs, starch, and greens. The dish is then topped with a sweet and savory sauce.
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Where to Try: Ningxia Night Market
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Price Range: $3-$5 per serving
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Serving Style: Pan-fried until crispy on the edges and soft in the middle.
3. Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶)
Originating from Taiwan, bubble tea has taken the world by storm. This drink typically consists of tea, milk, sugar, and chewy tapioca pearls.
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Where to Try: Raohe Night Market
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Price Range: $2-$4 per cup
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Flavors: Classic milk tea, taro, matcha, and more.
Fun Fact: The "bubbles" in bubble tea refer to the frothy top layer, not the tapioca pearls.
4. Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵)
This hearty dish features tender chunks of beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a comfort food that warms the soul.
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Where to Try: Tonghua Night Market
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Price Range: $5-$8 per bowl
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Broth Varieties: Clear broth, red braised broth, and tomato-based broth.
Celebrity Endorsement: Chef Anthony Bourdain praised Taiwan's beef noodle soup as one of the best in the world.
5. Taiwanese Fried Chicken (鹽酥雞)
Taiwanese fried chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then deep-fried to perfection and seasoned with basil leaves.
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Where to Try: Shida Night Market
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Price Range: $3-$5 per serving
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Serving Style: Bite-sized pieces served in a paper bag.
Did You Know? Taiwanese fried chicken is often compared to popcorn chicken but is distinctly flavored with Asian spices.
6. Gua Bao (刈包)
Often referred to as the "Taiwanese hamburger," gua bao is a steamed bun filled with braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, crushed peanuts, and coriander.
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Where to Try: Huaxi Street Night Market
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Price Range: $2-$4 per bun
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Variations: Some stalls offer alternative fillings like chicken or tofu.
Fun Fact: Gua bao has gained international fame and can be found in trendy restaurants around the world.
7. Hot Star Large Fried Chicken (豪大大雞排)
This oversized fried chicken cutlet is a must-try for its crispy coating and juicy meat. It’s a popular street food that’s perfect for sharing.
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Where to Try: Shilin Night Market
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Price Range: $4-$6 per cutlet
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Serving Style: Served whole or cut into pieces, often with optional spicy seasoning.
Question: Have you ever tried Hot Star's large fried chicken? How did you find its size and flavor?
8. Tian Bu La (甜不辣)
Tian bu la, also known as Taiwanese tempura, consists of fish paste cakes that are fried and then boiled in a savory broth.
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Where to Try: Raohe Night Market
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Price Range: $2-$4 per serving
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Serving Style: Usually served with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Did You Know? Unlike Japanese tempura, Tian bu la is often simmered in broth after frying, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
9. Pineapple Cake (鳳梨酥)
Pineapple cakes are a beloved Taiwanese pastry featuring a buttery crust filled with sweet and tangy pineapple jam.
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Where to Try: Various vendors across Taipei, including night markets and specialty shops.
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Price Range: $1-$3 per cake
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Serving Style: Individually wrapped, often enjoyed as a gift or souvenir.
Celebrity Endorsement: Pineapple cakes are frequently gifted to international dignitaries and celebrities visiting Taiwan.
10. Shaved Ice (剉冰)
Taiwanese shaved ice is a refreshing dessert featuring finely shaved ice topped with a variety of ingredients like fresh fruit, sweetened beans, jelly, and condensed milk.
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Where to Try: Yongkang Street
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Price Range: $3-$6 per serving
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Popular Toppings: Mango, strawberries, red beans, and grass jelly.
Fun Fact: Shaved ice is a popular treat during Taiwan’s hot and humid summers, offering a delicious way to cool down.
Final Bite: Savoring the Best of Taipei's Night Markets
Taipei's night markets are a culinary paradise, offering a diverse array of street foods that cater to every taste. From the bold flavors of stinky tofu to the comforting warmth of beef noodle soup, these markets provide a sensory experience that goes beyond just eating. They represent the heart and soul of Taiwanese culture, bringing people together through the joy of food. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Taipei’s night markets promise an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
