Kaohsiung Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Kaohsiung. Your complete guide to dining in Kaohsiung.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Kaohsiung! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Kaohsiung has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Kaohsiung's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Kaohsiung like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Kaohsiung offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Kaohsiung.
Putien
Highly rated Chinese in Kaohsiung with 4.8 stars from 18702 reviews.
๐ No. 98่, Ziyou 3rd Road, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 813
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธUpscale dining experience
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
Wang Steak Kaohsiung Zhongzheng Branch
Highly rated Steakhouse in Kaohsiung with 4.8 stars from 11858 reviews.
๐ No. 88่, Zhongzheng 3rd Rd, Sinsing District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 800
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธUpscale dining experience
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Steakhouse cuisine
AW Restaurant Autumn
Highly rated Restaurant in Kaohsiung with 4.8 stars from 246 reviews.
๐ 807, Taiwan, Kaohsiung City, Sanmin District, Jiuru 1st Rd, 815่2ๆจ
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
TASTY Kaohsiung Zhongshan
Highly rated Steakhouse in Kaohsiung with 4.8 stars from 16843 reviews.
๐ 800, Taiwan, Kaohsiung City, Sinsing District, Zhongshan 2nd Rd, 472่2F
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Steakhouse cuisine
Old New Taiwanese Cuisine (Jiuru 2nd Road)
Highly rated Chinese in Kaohsiung with 4.7 stars from 8060 reviews.
๐ No. 227่, Jiuru 2nd Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 807
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
Ukai-tei Kaohsiung
Highly rated Steakhouse in Kaohsiung with 4.6 stars from 1436 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
๐ 806, Taiwan, Kaohsiung City, Cianjhen District, Zhongshan 2nd Rd, 199่3ๆจ
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธUpscale dining experience
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Steakhouse cuisine
้พ้ถดๅฎถ
Highly rated Restaurant in Kaohsiung with 4.4 stars from 1723 reviews.
๐ No. 277่, Qinghai Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 804
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Duck Zhen
Highly rated Restaurant in Kaohsiung with 4.3 stars from 11052 reviews.
๐ No. 258่, Wufu 4th Rd, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 803
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธBudget-friendly prices
Doon Valley Indian Restaurant and Bar Wufu Road. ้ฝ็ฆๅฉๅฐๅบฆๅปๆฟ้ ้คจ ไบ็ฆๅบ
Highly rated Indian in Kaohsiung with 4.9 stars from 3438 reviews.
๐ No. 43่, Wufu 4th Rd, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 803
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Indian cuisine
่ไป้ค้ ้คจxๅฐๅๆ็้ป๏ผๅฎๅ จ้ ็ดๅถ.้ๆๅไธๅคฉ๏ผ
Highly rated Restaurant in Kaohsiung with 4.9 stars from 384 reviews.
๐ No. 27่, Lane 53, Zilier Rd, Qianjin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 801
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
HOTEL COZZI Kaohsiung Zhongshan
Highly rated Restaurant in Kaohsiung with 4.8 stars from 13276 reviews.
๐ No. 260่, Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Cianjhen District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 806
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Din Tai Fung Kaohsiung Branch
Highly rated Chinese in Kaohsiung with 4.4 stars from 6033 reviews.
๐ 813, Taiwan, Kaohsiung City, Zuoying District, Bo-ai 2nd Rd, 777่B1
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Kaohsiung.
Liuhe Night Market
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 3.8 stars from 38870 reviews.
๐ Liuhe 2nd Rd, Sinsing District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 800
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Ruifeng Night Market
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 4.2 stars from 37329 reviews.
๐ 813, Taiwan, Kaohsiung City, Zuoying District, Yucheng Rd, ๅๅฑ่ทฏ
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Hello Market
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 4.2 stars from 4573 reviews.
๐ No. 166่, Mingtan Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 813
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Ziyou Traditional Evening Market
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 4.3 stars from 11979 reviews.
๐ No. 261่, Ziyou 3rd Road, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 813
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Guanghua Night Market
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 4.2 stars from 11747 reviews.
๐ No. 339่, Guanghua 2nd Rd, Cianjhen District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 806
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Guo Mao Gongyou Traditional Market
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 3.9 stars from 1456 reviews.
๐ No. 9, Zhonghua 1st Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 813
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Jhongsiao Night Market
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 4.1 stars from 4482 reviews.
๐ Jhongsiao 2nd Rd, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 802
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Sanmin Market
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 4.1 stars from 3680 reviews.
๐ No. 285่, Jhonghua 3rd Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 807
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Kaohsiung.
Taipei Eats: Food Tours
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 5 stars from 140 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Red Barn Factory & Tours
Highly rated Restaurant in Kaohsiung with 4.2 stars from 1326 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
้ซ้ๆธฏ่งๅ ่น-้ท่น่ช้
Highly rated Restaurant in Kaohsiung with 4.9 stars from 298 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
ๆจ้่กๅฐ็ฃๅ ่ปๆ ้๏ธฑๆๆไฟๆฏ่ป๏ธฑLM / ้ฟๆณ๏ธฑ่ณๅฃซไนไบบๅบง่ป
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 5 stars from 414 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Taipei Food Tour / Taipei's Origin & Longshan Temple - Walking Tour Meeting Point - TourMeAway
Highly rated International in Kaohsiung with 5 stars from 1050 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Xing Long Ju
Highly rated Restaurant in Kaohsiung with 4.2 stars from 8491 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Kaohsiung.
My cofi
Highly rated Cafe in Kaohsiung with 4.8 stars from 632 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ No. 19่, Siamen St, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 802
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Ruh Cafe No.1
Highly rated Cafe in Kaohsiung with 4.7 stars from 874 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ No. 217่, Siwei 3rd Rd, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 802
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธBudget-friendly prices
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
CAFFAINA COFFEE GALLERY KMFA Shop
Highly rated Cafe in Kaohsiung with 4.3 stars from 5024 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ No. 3่, Meishu East 2nd Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 804
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Rruyo Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Kaohsiung with 4.6 stars from 692 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ No. 11่, Lane 56, Zhongzheng 2nd Rd, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 802
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
PAMMA COFFEE
Highly rated Cafe in Kaohsiung with 4.5 stars from 3225 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ No. 176่, Liantan Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 813
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Parlare coffee ๆๅๅงๅๅก
Highly rated Cafe in Kaohsiung with 4.6 stars from 712 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ No. 7่, Wenhua W Rd, Fengshan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 830
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Do good coffee & dessert
Highly rated Cafe in Kaohsiung with 4.6 stars from 542 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ No. 116-1่, Bixin St, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 803
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
ๅๅก่ถณ็ฃ Coffee Serenity๏ผๅๆฅโขๅๅฎ็ด ๅญโข็็ก่จไฝ)
Highly rated Cafe in Kaohsiung with 4.9 stars from 586 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ No. 26่, Bohai St, Sinsing District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 800
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Kaohsiung.
Signature Dish
A must-try Kaohsiung specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Kaohsiung dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Kaohsiung with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Kaohsiung specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Kaohsiung creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Kaohsiung classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Kaohsiung specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Kaohsiung dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Kaohsiung with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Kaohsiung specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Kaohsiung.
Ocean/kaohsiung
Highly rated Bar in Kaohsiung with 4.9 stars from 404 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ No. 53-6่, Liuhe 1st Rd, Sinsing District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 800
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
La Face Bar
Highly rated Bar in Kaohsiung with 4.8 stars from 1985 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ No. 230่, Chenggong 1st Rd, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 802
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
้ฃฒ้ ๅ ฅๅฎค1964 Music Bar๏ฝ่จไฝๅฎๆนLine: @770dnpvr
Highly rated Bar in Kaohsiung with 4.9 stars from 413 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ 801, Taiwan, Kaohsiung City, Qianjin District, Liuhe 2nd Rd, 160่4ๆจ
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
Bar Doorlight
Highly rated Bar in Kaohsiung with 4.9 stars from 465 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ No. 2่, Lane 40, Sanduosi Rd, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 802
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
้ธ้ตก่บ้ค้ ้คจ ้นฝๅไบ็ฆๅบ Bar Nautilus Wufu
Highly rated Italian in Kaohsiung with 4.8 stars from 2227 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ No. 117่, Wufu 4th Rd, Yancheng District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 803
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Italian cuisine
ๅฐ้ FEWdrink
Highly rated Bar in Kaohsiung with 4.9 stars from 1291 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ No. 56่, Wenwu 3rd St, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 802
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธPopular with locals and visitors
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- ๐ฝ๏ธMake reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- ๐ฝ๏ธTry local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- ๐ฝ๏ธAsk locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- ๐ฝ๏ธVisit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- ๐ฝ๏ธDon't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- ๐ฝ๏ธTake a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- ๐ฝ๏ธCheck restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- ๐ฝ๏ธBring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- ๐ฝ๏ธPace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- ๐ฝ๏ธDocument your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Kaohsiung's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Kaohsiung vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kaohsiung is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Kaohsiung offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Kaohsiung specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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