Taiwan is known for its delicious, mouthwatering street foods that you can find all across the country.
From the bustling night markets to the food stalls on the sidewalk, there are so many street foods in Taiwan to choose from. But with so many to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones to try!
Furthermore, Taiwan is known for its unique street food culture, and for a good reason. With a wide variety of dishes available, deciding what to try when visiting the country can be hard.
From seafood to sweet treats, Taiwan has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the most popular street foods in Taiwan that will make your mouth water.
Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, or spicy, you can find something to love. Here are must-try street foods in Taiwan that you won’t want to miss.
1. Tian Bu La
Tian Bu La, also known as Taiwanese Fish Cakes, is one of the popular street foods in Taiwan.
It is made by mixing fish paste and other ingredients, then pressing them into round shapes and deep-frying them. The result is a crunchy, savory snack that can be enjoyed on the go.
This street food is great for sharing and makes an excellent accompaniment to drinks or a meal. With its unique flavor and texture, it’s no wonder Tian Bu La has become a beloved Taiwanese treat!
2. Hî-ôan / Yu Wan
Hî-ôan or Yu Wan, also known as Tamsui Fish Balls, is a favorite when it comes to street foods in Taiwan. These fish balls, made from fresh fish and spices, can be found all over the streets of Taiwan.
Hî-ôan is usually served with a light soup, soy sauce, and pickled cabbage for an added kick of flavor.
The fish balls are light and soft, making them a perfect snack while exploring Taiwan’s cities. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, be sure to give these fish balls a try—you won’t regret it!
3. Kao Youyu
Kao Youyu, also known as Grilled Squid, is one of Taiwan’s popular street foods. It is typically cooked on a charcoal grill, giving it a smoky, char-grilled flavor.
The squid is mixed with soy sauce, sugar, salt, and garlic before being placed on the grill. The squid is then grilled until it is cooked through but still tender and juicy.
Kao Youyu can be served with various accompaniments, such as pickled cabbage, bean sprouts, and chili sauce. It is an excellent snack for those looking for something savory and filling.
Whether you are in a night market or just walking around the streets of Taiwan, be sure to try Kao Youyu!
4. Tie Dan
Tie Dan, or Iron Eggs is a Taiwanese street food favorite that dates back to the Qing Dynasty.
These eggs are boiled in a special sauce made from a blend of soy sauce, spices, and herbs, which gives them their unique flavor and color. The eggs are then individually wrapped in foil and sold as an easy snack on the street.
The taste of Tie Dan, one of the street foods in Taiwan, is described as savory, sweet, and smoky – making it a perfect snack on the go.
It’s a great way to sample Taiwanese cuisine without spending much money. Plus, it’s easy to find and conveniently sold at most street stalls throughout Taiwan.
5. Aiyu Jelly
Aiyu Jelly is not excluded from the list of popular street foods in Taiwan made from the seeds of the Aiyu plant. It is usually served with either sweet syrup or sour lime juice.
The jelly itself is translucent and chewy, with a slightly tart flavor. It is often served as a refreshing snack or dessert in the summertime.
Visitors to Taiwan should be sure to try this unique and delicious street food. It is a great way to cool off during hot days, and the flavor will surely leave you wanting more.
Aiyu Jelly can be found at many street vendors throughout Taiwan, making it easy to find and enjoy!
6. Zhen Zhu Nai Cha
Zhen Zhu Nai Cha, or Bubble Milk Tea, is one of Taiwan’s most popular street foods. It is a delicious tea-based beverage that comes with large, chewy tapioca pearls at the bottom.
The tea can be flavored with options such as oolong, green, or black tea and then sweetened with syrup or honey.
It’s a perfect snack for any time of the day – whether you’re on the go or looking for something to cool off on a hot summer day.
The best part about Zhen Zhu Nai Cha is that it’s easy to customize. You can choose the level of sweetness and how much ice you want, allowing you to make the perfect cup for yourself.
You can also add toppings like pudding, jelly, or fruit for an even more delicious experience. Make sure to give it a try next time you’re in Taiwan!
7. Cong You Bing
Taiwan is known for its vibrant street food culture, and one of the most popular snacks is the Cong You Bing (Taiwanese Scallion Pancake).
This savory, crunchy treat is made with a thin, flour-based pancake that is fried with oil and covered in scallions.
The finished product is crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, making it a perfect snack to enjoy while exploring Taiwan’s bustling cities.
As street foods in Taiwan, these pancakes are typically served with various sauces to enhance their flavor. Soy sauce and chili sauce are two of the most common condiments to dip the pancakes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, Cong You Bing is sure to please your taste buds!
8. Taiwanese Popcorn Mushrooms
Popcorn mushrooms are a must-try if you’re looking for unique and tasty street foods in Taiwan.
These little delicacies are created by deep-frying whole mushrooms, creating a crunchy outer shell that is full of flavor.
They are often served on skewers or in a bowl with different sauces, such as garlic soy sauce, spicy mayo, or curry powder.
Not only do these delicious mushrooms make for an interesting snack, but they also make for a great photo opportunity. Popcorn mushrooms are a unique street food that you won’t miss out on!
9. Zha Niu Nai
Zha Niu Nai, or deep-fried milk, is a popular food in Taiwan. It’s a simple dish made with fresh milk that is lightly fried in a sweet batter.
The dish has a unique texture, with a crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, creamy center. It’s usually served as a snack but can also be enjoyed as a dessert.
Zha Niu Nai can be flavored with sugar, honey, or other ingredients to enhance its flavor. No matter how it’s served, this delicacy of street foods in Taiwan is always sure to please.
10. Chou Tofu
Chou Tofu, also known as Stinky Tofu, is one of the classic street foods in Taiwan.
It is made from deep-fried fermented tofu that has been marinated in various spices, including garlic and chili pepper.
The smell of Chou Tofu may be a bit overpowering, but the taste is surprisingly delicious. Not only is it tasty, but it also has numerous health benefits due to the fermentation process.
Eating Chou Tofu can help aid digestion and boost the immune system. If you want to try this traditional street food, you can find it in night markets all over Taiwan.
Vendors usually fry the tofu in a large wok or skillet, then serve it with a variety of sauces, pickled vegetables, and other condiments.
So if you’re feeling adventurous and want to experience authentic street foods in Taiwan, Chou Tofu should definitely be at the top of your list!
11. Jiu Fen Yu Yuan
Delicious and iconic street foods in Taiwan include the Jiu Fen Yu Yuan. These taro balls are made from starchy yam-like root vegetables, then boiled and mashed into a paste that is rolled into little balls.
The balls are then cooked with sweet syrup, often mixed with peanuts and tapioca pearls.
The result is a chewy, sweet, and savory snack that is truly delicious. This street food is perfect for trying something unique and flavorful. Not only is it delicious, but it is also fun to eat!
12. Zha Yu Wan
Zha Yu Wan is likewise one of the classic street foods in Taiwan and a must-try for any traveler. The fried taro balls are a deliciously savory snack that can be found on many night markets throughout the country.
This snack is made with mashed taro, pork, mushrooms, and scallions, which are then wrapped in a wonton wrapper and deep-fried.
The result is a crunchy, chewy ball of flavor that will please any palate. They are typically served with a sweet and sour chili sauce that adds an extra kick of flavor.
Zha Yu Wan is a great way to experience the unique flavors of Taiwanese street food.
13. Bingqilin Chunjuan
Bingqilin Chunjuan is one of the most beloved street foods in Taiwan. It’s a sweet, creamy treat that can be found all across the country.
The dessert consists of an ice cream-filled pastry shell, usually made from wheat or rice flour, and is then deep-fried until golden and crispy.
The ice cream filling can range from traditional flavors such as strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla to exotic flavors like taro, red bean, and black sesame.
The result is a delicious snack that is sure to please your taste buds. No visit to Taiwan is complete without trying a Bingqilin Chunjuan.
This classic Taiwanese street food is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while exploring the country’s vibrant culture. Make sure to try one on your next trip to Taiwan!
14. Tà-Á-Mī
Tà-Á-Mī is one of the most popular street foods in Taiwan. It is a type of noodle soup made with egg-based broth, shrimp, slices of pork, and pickled mustard greens.
The broth is usually seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This delicious dish is usually served with a bowl of white rice, pickled vegetables, and sweet potato.
Tà-Á-Mī is a classic street food and popular Taiwanese comfort food. The warm and flavorful broth can be enjoyed in any season and provides an essential part of Taiwanese culture. Enjoy this delicious and traditional dish while exploring the streets of Taiwan!
15. Ô-Á Mī-Sòa / Oyster Mee Sua
Ô-Á Mī-Sòa, or Oyster Mee Sua, is included in this list of street foods in Taiwan that’s sure to make your mouth water.
This traditional noodle dish consists of soft wheat vermicelli noodles mixed with oyster sauce, diced onions, and herbs.
Combining the flavorful sauces and fresh ingredients creates an amazing flavor that keeps you returning for more.
It’s often served with a side of pickled vegetables and hot chili sauce to give it a little bit of extra kick.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also one of the most affordable street foods in Taiwan out there. This makes it a great option for those looking for a quick and tasty snack.
16. Niu Rou Mian
Niu Rou Mian, or beef noodle soup, is a beloved Taiwanese street food. This hearty dish consists of noodles in a savory beef broth, topped with chunks of braised beef, and garnished with spring onions, chili sauce, and sesame oil.
This rich, aromatic dish is not only delicious but also incredibly comforting. Niu Rou Mian can be found all over Taiwan, from night markets to street vendors.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, this classic dish of street foods in Taiwan will satisfy you. Enjoy it with a side of pickles and a cold beer for the ultimate street food experience.
17. Lu Rou Fan
Lu Rou Fan is one of the most popular street foods in Taiwan, and it is easy to see why. This classic dish consists of a flavorful pork belly stew cooked in soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, and other seasonings. The result is a savory dish that is both comforting and delicious.
It is often served over steamed white rice and garnished with fresh herbs or spring onions for an added layer of flavor.
Lu Rou Fan is a staple of Taiwanese cuisine and can be found in many street markets and night markets throughout the country.
Whether you are looking for something quick and easy to eat or a more substantial meal, Lu Rou Fan is sure to satisfy your hunger.
18. Hoe-Koe Bah-Pn̄g / Huo Ji Rou Fan
Hoe-Koe Bah-Pn̄g, also known as Huo Ji Rou Fan, is one of Taiwan’s most popular street foods.
This classic comfort food is typically a combination of fried pork and rice, which is then topped with a variety of sauces.
The fried pork is usually marinated with soy sauce, garlic, and other spices, giving it an incredible flavor.
The rice is then cooked with an egg and then topped with pickled vegetables, scallions, and more sauces.
This street food is delicious and highly affordable, making it a go-to option for many Taiwanese locals.
Whether you’re visiting Taiwan or just looking for something tasty to snack on, this dish is definitely worth trying out.
19. Gua Bao / Koah Pau
Gua Bao, also known as Koah Pau, is a traditional Taiwanese street food dish that has become hugely popular worldwide.
It’s essentially a steamed bun filled with pork belly, pickled mustard greens, cilantro, and sometimes peanuts.
The soft, fluffy bun and the flavorful pork belly make this dish incredibly delicious.
This mouth-watering treat can be found in many street food stalls throughout Taiwan and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Gua Bao is best enjoyed fresh and warm, so it’s important to seek out places that serve it hot off the griddle.
Street vendors are often the best option for an authentic Gua Bao experience. The buns are prepared right before you, ensuring maximum flavor and freshness.
Be sure to bring some cash with you, as most vendors accept cash only. You won’t regret it when you take your first bite of this delicious Taiwanese street food!
We aren’t done with the list of the best street foods in Taiwan. Read on!
20. Hu Jiao Bing
Hu Jiao Bing is one of the most popular street foods in Taiwan. This savory treat consists of a thin wheat flour crust filled with pork, onion, and garlic, along with an array of seasonings and spices.
The pork filling is cooked and simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and Shaoxing wine, making it fragrant and flavorful.
It is usually served with pickled vegetables and fresh cilantro to make Hu Jiao Bing even more mouth-watering. This classic Taiwanese snack will tantalize your taste buds and make your mouth water!
21. Da Chang Bao Xiao Chang
Da Chang Bao Xiao Chang, or Stuffed Big Sausage Wrapped in Small Sausage, is one of the street foods in Taiwan.
It’s a large Chinese-style sausage, usually pork, wrapped in a thin wrap made from glutinous rice. The combination of texture and flavor makes it an absolute must-try for those visiting Taiwan!
The sausage can be enjoyed either hot or cold with various seasonings like chili oil, sweet soy sauce, and garlic. No matter how you enjoy it, Da Chang Bao Xiao Chang will make your mouth water!
22. Yan Su Ji / Kiâm-So͘-Ke
One of the delectable street foods in Taiwan is Yan Su Ji or Kiâm-So͘-Ke. It is a type of fried chicken made with a light and crispy batter, marinated in a special sauce, and served with a flavorful sweet and sour sauce.
This dish is typically served on a bed of chopped pickles and onions. The taste is savory yet sweet, making it a delicious snack or meal.
The succulent texture and unique flavor make it one of the favorite street foods in Taiwan. Yan Su Ji can be found in night markets throughout Taiwan and in many restaurants.
Its popularity has spread throughout Asia and even internationally. If you are visiting Taiwan, you should definitely give this delicacy a try. You won’t regret it!
23. Ji Pai
Ji Pai, or Fried Chicken Cutlet, is one of Taiwan’s most popular street foods. This delicious snack can be found throughout the country, with vendors and stands selling Ji Pai as an easy and tasty treat.
The cutlets are made of minced chicken that is coated in a layer of crunchy breadcrumbs and then fried until golden brown.
They are usually served with a side of sweet and sour sauce or a spicy chili sauce. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a must-try food for any traveler to Taiwan.
Ji Pai is a great snack to enjoy anytime, whether you’re out exploring or just looking for a quick bite to eat.
24. Huoyan Kao Niurou Kuai
Huoyan Kao Niurou Kuai is one of Taiwan’s most popular street foods. This delicious dish consists of flame-grilled cubes of marinated beef, served up on skewers with a special spicy sauce.
The marinade typically consists of a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, spices like garlic, five-spice powder, and Szechuan peppercorns.
The flavor of this delicacy, one of the delicious street foods in Taiwan, is savory and sweet, with a hint of spiciness from the chili peppers. Eating these cubes of beef is sure to make your mouth water!
If you’re looking for an authentic Taiwanese street food experience, Huoyan Kao Niurou Kuai is a must-try.
It’s often found at night markets and street food stalls throughout Taiwan, so you won’t have to look too far for a taste. Try it out next time you’re in the country and enjoy this unique and flavorful snack.
25. Ba-Wan
Ba-Wan is last on the list of delicious street foods in Taiwan. These savory Taiwanese meatballs are served in a chewy, thin dough that is cooked on a hot griddle and topped with a sticky, sweet sauce.
The filling inside the dough is usually made up of pork and mushrooms, which are seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs.
Ba-Wan is also often served with a side of pickled vegetables, providing a unique mix of sweet, salty, and sour flavors.
Eating Ba-Wan on the streets of Taiwan is a great way to experience the culture and explore the local cuisine. We’ll wind up our list of street foods in Taiwan here!
Conclusion
Taiwan has a vibrant street food culture that’s renowned for its delicious, unique dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
From hearty soups to savory snacks, there’s something for every palate. If you’re looking to tantalize your taste buds, the above popular street foods in Taiwan will do the trick.
From the classic oyster omelet to the mysterious stinky tofu, those dishes are bursting with flavor and are sure to make your mouth water.
The things I’ve just described to you are typical street foods in Taiwan. You won’t have fully appreciated this location’s uniqueness if you visit but forgo the evening gastronomic tour.
I hope the dishes I’ve mentioned above will make your trip delightful and full of interesting encounters. Don’t pass up the opportunity to sample these delicacies of the delectable street foods in Taiwan!
