Taipei is a food lover's paradise, buzzing with vibrant flavors, iconic eats and unforgettable culinary experiences. I had some of the most amazing and interesting food finds in this city. I didn’t realize how much I missed Taipei until I arrived. It’s been too long, and I’m so glad to be back.
On my recent trip to Taiwan's capital, I dove into the heart of the city's food scene - from award-winning restaurants to bustling night market and beloved local tea shops. Here's a taste of my top must-try spots in Taipei.
Craving bubble tea? You can't visit Taiwan without sipping on a cup of 50 Lan (also known as 50 Tea), one of the country's most popular bubble tea chains, you will see them everywhere. I grabbed a classic oolong tea with half sugar, and it hit the spot with its perfect balance in sweetness, roasted tea, and chewy tapioca pearls. What sets 50 Lan apart is the customization - they let you tailor your drink just the way you like it. Whether it's oolong milk tea, jasmine green, or something fruitier, there's something for every tea lover.
3. Ningxia Night Market - Street Food Heaven
To cap off a day of eating, I headed to Ningxia Night Market, one of Taipei's most beloved (and local-favorite) night markets. Though smaller than Shilin, it's packed with incredible street eats and less touristy charm.
Here's what I tried:
- Oyster Omelet - a gooey, savory classic with tangy sauce
- Grilled squid on a stick - fresh, smoky, and topped with spicy powder
- Peanut Ice Cream Roll - sweet peanut shavings and cilantro wrapped around creamy taro ice cream in a rice paper wrap. Strange sounding, but uniquely delicious
One of the standout discoveries during this trip was the oyster omelet - a gooey, savory classic that completely won me over. I’d heard about it before, but nothing quite prepared me for that first bite. Served hot off the griddle, the dish is a delicious mix of plump, briny oysters, soft scrambled egg, and a chewy, starchy batter made from sweet potato flour that gives it that signature texture - somewhere between a pancake and a mochi-like crepe.
What really brings it all together is the tangy, slightly sweet red sauce drizzled generously over the top. It adds a perfect contrast to the richness of the eggs and the subtle ocean flavor of the oysters. The combination is surprisingly well-balanced: savory, slightly sweet, and satisfyingly sticky.
It’s one of those dishes that might raise eyebrows at first glance, but once you taste it, you get it. I’m so glad I gave it a try this time around - it’s an unforgettable part of Taipei’s night market magic, and definitely a must-try for anyone curious enough to go beyond the usual street food staples.
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