The Best Restaurants in Taipei for Foodies and Explorers 

Traveloka Team
08 Feb 2025 - 4 min read

The Best Restaurants in Taipei for Foodies and Explorers

Taipei has become a global hotspot for food lovers, blending traditional Taiwanese flavours with Chinese and Japanese cuisine influences. When you visit, you’ll embark on a culinary adventure filled with street food delights, fine dining experiences, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From scrumptious Xiao Long Bao to Michelin-starred innovation, this guide highlights the best restaurants in Taipei and provides insider tips for exploring its vibrant food scene.

Flight From Singapore to Taipei

Thu, 22 May 2025

Scoot

Singapore (SIN) to Taipei (TPE)

Start from SGD 116.31

Thu, 15 May 2025

Air Macau

Singapore (SIN) to Taipei (TPE)

Start from SGD 168.61

Tue, 13 May 2025

Batik Air Malaysia

Singapore (SIN) to Taipei (TPE)

Start from SGD 170.03

Taipei’s Culinary Scene: A Fusion of Flavours

Taipei’s dining culture harmoniously blends influences stemming from its rich history and evolution as a culinary hub. The city’s food scene is unique, featuring everything from bustling night markets with affordable dishes to sophisticated establishments showcasing the artistry of Taiwanese cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of street-side eats or elegant dining, Taipei offers a sensory feast for every kind of eater.

What Makes Taipei a Food Paradise?

Traditional Meets Modern: Taipei’s culinary offerings range from family recipes passed down through generations to fusion dishes that defy expectations.
Versatile Cuisine: Influences from China and Japan have contributed to a diverse menu, with dishes loaded with punchy, umami-driven flavours.
Ease of Exploration: Thanks to Taipei’s excellent transport system and accessible locations, you’ll never have to go far to find your next treat.

Top Restaurants in Taipei: A Culinary Journey

Fine Dining with Taiwanese Elegance

RAW

Created by André Chiang, a world-renowned chef, RAW represents modern Taiwanese fine dining at its peak. The restaurant focuses on local seasonal ingredients and crafts dishes, highlighting Taiwan's creativity and artistry.

SSpecialities Seasonal tasting menus that reflect local ingredients.
Insider Tip: Book well in advance, as this celebrated venue is almost always fully booked.

MUME

Combining Nordic cooking techniques with Asian ingredients, MUME has redefined fine dining in Taipei. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes this a delightful stop.

Specialities: Pork jowl with caviar and dessert pairings.
Insider Tip: Arrive early or call ahead to enjoy their cosy bar before a meal.

Must-Visit Local Gem

Din Tai Fung

Initially based in Taipei, Din Tai Fung isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a culinary institution. Famous for their xiao long bao (steamed dumplings), every bite oozes skilful preparation and exquisite taste.

Specialities: Xiao long bao with a variety of fillings.
Insider Tip: Visit their original location on Yongkang Street to taste their legacy.

Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles

This humble spot at Ximending epitomises traditional Taiwanese comfort food. It is a quick yet fulfilling treat known for its flavourful bowls of thin rice noodles in broth.

Specialities: Signature rice noodles topped with braised pork and coriander.
Insider Tip: Grab your noodle bowl and enjoy the bustling Ximending scene.

Authentic Taiwanese Street Food

Shilin Night Market

The Shilin Night Market is the ultimate destination for Taiwanese street food. This market is a foodie's dream, with endless stalls serving everything from stinky tofu to bubble tea.

Specialties: Hot Star fried chicken, oyster omelettes, and mango shaved ice.
Insider Tip: Visit early to avoid large crowds and secure the freshest snacks.

Liuhe Night Market (for Seafood Buffs)

Located in Kaohsiung, this spot serves stunning seafood dishes prepared to perfection. Expect fresh fish, crab, and giant prawns cooked on the spot and tailored to your preferences.

Specialities: Grilled squid, fresh oysters, and sashimi platters.
Insider Tip: Find the longer queues—local patrons often know the tastiest stalls!

Exploring Taipei’s culinary offerings isn’t just about visiting restaurants—it’s about experiencing the unique culture and community surrounding the city’s food.

Tips for Exploring Taipei’s Cuisine

Plan for Night Markets: If you have free evenings, visit Raohe or Ningxia Night Market for various quick, delicious options. Go hungry!
Use Traveloka for Seamless Bookings: Bookings often guarantee seats at popular fine-dining restaurants. To ensure smooth planning, rely on trusted platforms like Traveloka.
Be Adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try lesser-known dishes like stinky tofu or pig’s blood cake—they’re local favourites for a reason!

Dietary Considerations

Taipei caters to all dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free preferences. Many restaurants and market vendors are familiar with varying diets, especially at modern establishments like Plants Eatery or Flourish.

For vegetarians/vegans: Look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants that are abundant and serve healthy, fresh meals.
For Gluten-Free Options: While soy sauce is standard, many restaurants offer gluten-free variations if requested.

A Taste of Insight from Local Experts

To capture Taipei’s culinary heart, we spoke with a local food blogger, Jo Lin, who blogs at “Taste Taipei.” Jo believes the charm of Taipei’s food scene lies in the layers of flavours that reflect the city’s diverse cultural history.

“I always recommend first-timers head to Yongkang Street for savoury classics like beef noodle soup and scallion pancakes, then finish off with a trip to Raohe Night Market,” Jo advises. “You’ll quickly understand how dynamic and diverse our city’s food culture is.”

Jo’s top travel tip? “Follow your instincts. A busy food stall or restaurant means locals love it—sometimes, that’s better than any guide recommendation!”

Why Taipei Belongs on Every Foodie’s Map

From traditional recipes to globally inspired innovations, Taipei offers a thrilling mix of flavours for every palate. Whether you’re enjoying the artistry of a Michelin-starred restaurant or savouring a snack from a night market, you’ll find an unparalleled mix of quality, imagination, and authenticity here.

Planning your next adventure? Use Traveloka to book your flight tickets, hotels, and top activities all in one place. Simplify your trip and dive into Taipei’s extraordinary food scene with ease!

Do you have a favourite dish or discovery in Taipei? Share it below or tag us in your foodie photos—we’d love to feature your recommendations!

In This Article

• The Best Restaurants in Taipei for Foodies and Explorers
• Taipei’s Culinary Scene: A Fusion of Flavours
• What Makes Taipei a Food Paradise?
• Top Restaurants in Taipei: A Culinary Journey
• Fine Dining with Taiwanese Elegance
• RAW
• MUME
• Must-Visit Local Gem
• Din Tai Fung
• Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles
• Authentic Taiwanese Street Food
• Shilin Night Market
• Liuhe Night Market (for Seafood Buffs)
• Navigating Taipei’s Food Scene
• Tips for Exploring Taipei’s Cuisine
• Dietary Considerations
• A Taste of Insight from Local Experts
• Why Taipei Belongs on Every Foodie’s Map

Flights Featured in This Article

Thu, 22 May 2025
Scoot
Singapore (SIN) to Taipei (TPE)
Start from SGD 116.31
Book Now
Thu, 15 May 2025
Air Macau
Singapore (SIN) to Taipei (TPE)
Start from SGD 168.61
Book Now
Tue, 13 May 2025
Batik Air Malaysia
Singapore (SIN) to Taipei (TPE)
Start from SGD 170.03
Book Now

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