Taipei Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience

Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Taipei. Your complete guide to dining in Taipei.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Taipei! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Taipei 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 Taipei's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Taipei like a true food lover.

Key Takeaways

  • Taipei 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 Taipei.

Γ€ POINT STEAK & BAR

Highly rated Italian in Taipei with 4.7 stars from 11588 reviews.

πŸ“ 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, Section 5 of Zhongxiao East RoadSection 5 of Zhongxiao E Rd, 139θ™Ÿ2樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine

Feng Delicious Taipei Nanjing E. Branch

Highly rated Chinese in Taipei with 4.7 stars from 10119 reviews.

πŸ“ 104, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongshan District, Section 2, Nanjing E Rd, 146θ™Ÿ2F

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

Veggienius - Taipei Branch

Highly rated Restaurant in Taipei with 4.9 stars from 10761 reviews.

πŸ“ 105, Taiwan, Taipei City, Songshan District, Section 3, Nanjing E Rd, 275θ™Ÿ2樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

MUME

Highly rated Restaurant in Taipei with 4.2 stars from 1735 reviews.

πŸ“ No. 28, Siwei Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

Din Tai Fung 101

Highly rated Chinese in Taipei with 4.5 stars from 13068 reviews.

πŸ“ 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, City Hall Rd, 45θ™ŸB1

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

Le Palais

Highly rated Chinese in Taipei with 4.5 stars from 3022 reviews.

πŸ“ 103, Taiwan, Taipei City, Datong District, Section 1, Chengde Rd, 3θ™Ÿ17樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

Longtail

Highly rated Restaurant in Taipei with 4.1 stars from 1790 reviews.

πŸ“ No. 174θ™Ÿ, Section 2, Dunhua S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

Mountain & Sea House Restaurant

Highly rated Restaurant in Taipei with 4.1 stars from 2309 reviews.

πŸ“ No. 94θ™Ÿ, Section 2, Ren'ai Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

La Mole Taipei

Highly rated Italian in Taipei with 4.6 stars from 1173 reviews.

πŸ“ No. 12, Lane 151, Section 2, Jianguo N Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine

Xiang Duck Taipei Zhongxiao E. Branch

Highly rated Chinese in Taipei with 4.8 stars from 22438 reviews.

πŸ“ 106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District, Section 4, Zhongxiao E Rd, 128θ™Ÿ2樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine

1001 Nights Kitchen Taipei

Highly rated Restaurant in Taipei with 4.5 stars from 1927 reviews.

πŸ“ 105, Taiwan, Taipei City, Songshan District, Section 4, Bade Rd, 618θ™Ÿ2F

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Modern Toilet Theme Restaurant

Highly rated Restaurant in Taipei with 4.7 stars from 4385 reviews.

πŸ“ 111, Taiwan, Taipei City, Shilin District, Wenlin Rd, 173θ™Ÿ2F

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

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 Taipei.

Raohe Night Market

Highly rated International in Taipei with 4.3 stars from 78257 reviews.

πŸ“ Raohe St, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 105

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Ningxia Night Market

Highly rated International in Taipei with 4.2 stars from 59638 reviews.

πŸ“ Ningxia Rd, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Shilin Night Market

Highly rated International in Taipei with 4.1 stars from 19544 reviews.

πŸ“ No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Nanmen Market

Highly rated International in Taipei with 4.2 stars from 17979 reviews.

πŸ“ No. 8θ™Ÿ, Section 1, Roosevelt Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Nanjichang Night Market

Highly rated International in Taipei with 4.3 stars from 33896 reviews.

πŸ“ Lane 307, Section 2, Zhonghua Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Dongmen Market

Highly rated International in Taipei with 4.1 stars from 5974 reviews.

πŸ“ No. 81, Section 2, Xinyi Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Ximending Night Market

Highly rated International in Taipei with 4.4 stars from 9985 reviews.

πŸ“ No. 127, Hanzhong St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Taipei Hope Plaza Farmers Market

Highly rated International in Taipei with 4.5 stars from 6130 reviews.

πŸ“ 100, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongzheng District, Beiping E Rd, 31θ™ŸεΈŒζœ›ε»£ε ΄

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Food Tours & Culinary Experiences

Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Taipei.

Taipei Eats: Food Tours

Highly rated International in Taipei with 5 stars from 140 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Taipei Food Tour - Breakfast Set: Local Favorites in Golden Lane Walking Tour Meeting Point - TourMeAway

Highly rated International in Taipei with 5 stars from 67 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Taipei Food Tour / Taipei's Origin & Longshan Temple - Walking Tour Meeting Point - TourMeAway

Highly rated International in Taipei with 5 stars from 1050 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Taipei Old Town - Taiwan Introduction Free Walking Tour Meeting Point - TourMeAway

Highly rated International in Taipei with 5 stars from 1779 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Taipei Food Tour Meeting Point - Like It Formosa

Popular International in Taipei.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Cafes & Bakeries

Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Taipei.

RUFOUS COFFEE

Highly rated Cafe in Taipei with 4.6 stars from 1697 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ No. 339θ™Ÿ, Section 2, Fuxing S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Coffee Law

Highly rated Cafe in Taipei with 4.8 stars from 3245 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District, Alley 40, Lane 181, Section 4, Zhongxiao E Rd, 15θ™Ÿ1樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Uranium Cafe

Highly rated Restaurant in Taipei with 4.5 stars from 2014 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District, Lane 253, Section 1, Fuxing S Rd, 32θ™Ÿ1樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Fika Fika Cafe

Highly rated Cafe in Taipei with 4.4 stars from 4569 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ No. 33θ™Ÿ, Yitong St, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 104

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Jack & NaNa coffee store

Highly rated Cafe in Taipei with 4.6 stars from 873 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ No. 11θ™Ÿ, Lane 157, Section 1, Heping E Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Saturn Landing Turkish Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Taipei with 4.7 stars from 1629 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, Lane 42, Yixian Rd, 19θ™Ÿ1樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

CURISTA COFFEE Taipei City Hall Shop

Highly rated Cafe in Taipei with 4.6 stars from 1699 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, Section 4, Zhongxiao E Rd, 563θ™Ÿ1樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Simple Kaffa Huashan Flagship Store

Highly rated Cafe in Taipei with 4.4 stars from 5360 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ No. 27, Section 2, Zhongxiao E Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Local Specialties & Signature Dishes

Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Taipei.

Signature Dish

A must-try Taipei specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Local Delicacy

This beloved Taipei dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Traditional Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Taipei with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Street Food Favorite

Discover why this Taipei specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Regional Specialty

This iconic Taipei creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Seasonal Treat

A Taipei classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Classic Comfort Food

A must-try Taipei specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Modern Fusion

This beloved Taipei dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Artisanal Product

Experience the authentic taste of Taipei with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Heritage Recipe

Discover why this Taipei specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Bars & Nightlife

Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Taipei.

Posino Taipei

Highly rated Bar in Taipei with 5 stars from 8660 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District, Section 2, Keelung Rd, 128θ™Ÿ2樓之2

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Book ing bar

Highly rated Bar in Taipei with 4.8 stars from 2799 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District, Lane 190, Section 1, Dunhua S Rd, 45θ™Ÿ1樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Bar Mood Taipei

Highly rated Bar in Taipei with 4.4 stars from 1720 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ No. 53θ™Ÿ, Lane 160, Section 1, Dunhua S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Geography Bar

Highly rated Bar in Taipei with 4.8 stars from 3620 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 108, Taiwan, Taipei City, Wanhua District, Kunming St, 92-2θ™Ÿ4樓 4樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

HANKO 60 如醉如倒

Highly rated Bar in Taipei with 4.8 stars from 7911 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ No. 60θ™Ÿ, Section 2, Hankou St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Draft Land

Highly rated Bar in Taipei with 4.6 stars from 1592 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District, Lane 248, Section 4, Zhongxiao E Rd, 2θ™Ÿ1樓

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Essential Tips

  • 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
  • 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
  • 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
  • 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
  • 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
  • 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
  • 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
  • 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
  • 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
  • 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Taipei'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 Taipei 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

Taipei 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 Taipei 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 Taipei 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.

Enjoyed this guide? Share it!