30 must-visit Taipei street food stalls under $3

byTrisha Velarmino Updated on Street Food Guide

Welcome to another street food around the world series! This time, I am going to share with you all the essential street food stalls in Taipei that you must visit.

I visit Taipei every year for my group tour and I never get tired of its food. For me, street food in Taipei is special because I have never seen anything like it โ€“ all the Taiwanese street food I had are unique and I couldnโ€™t find it anywhere else in the world!

Anyway, here are my best recommendations on where to eat street food in Taipei. They are divided by districts and neighborhoods so you will have a chance to visit them all for your trip to Taipei.

The ones marked with a star icon (โญ) are selected by the Michelin Bib Gourmand, but they do not have Michelin stars. If you have any questions about this article, leave a comment below!

Hope to bump into you in Taipei!

๐Ÿ˜ Recommended: The best restaurants in Taipei, Taiwan

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๐Ÿข Zhongzheng Taipei Street Food

This bustling district offers an unparalleled array of Taiwanese street food, reflecting the islandโ€™s diverse flavors and cooking techniques.

Zhongzheng is a melting pot of aromas, tastes, and textures, where every alley and corner presents an opportunity to discover local delicacies that have been perfected over generations.

where to stay in taipei
Where to stay in Zhongzheng, Taipei

A classic double room in Finders Hotel-Fu Qian starts at $55 per night. This hotel is a few steps away to the train station in Zhongzheng!

Here are the best street food stalls in Zhongzheng:

1. Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake

Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake stands out as a gem among Taipei street food with Michelin stars. This stall is celebrated for its crispy, flaky pancakes infused with the aromatic allure of scallions.

The stall specializes in traditional Taiwanese fare, offering a variety of scallion pancakes that can be enjoyed plain or with fillings like cheese or egg, adding layers of flavor and texture.

2. Wu Wang Tsai Chi

Wu Wang Tsai Chi is a beacon for connoisseurs of Taipei street food recognized in the Michelin Bib Gourmand. This stall is known for its exceptional interpretation of Taiwanese chicken dishes.

The stallโ€™s signature item, the soy-marinated chicken, a tender, juicy, and infused with a rich, aromatic blend of spices.

Explore the surrounding area of the stall to discover other culinary delights. Wu Wang Tsai Chi is often surrounded by other vendors selling complementary dishes and snacks, making it an ideal starting point for a food tour.

3. Unnamed Clay Oven Roll

Taipei Street Food

The Unnamed Clay Oven Roll stall is an enigmatic yet essential stop for connoisseurs of Taipei street food with Michelin stars.

Specializing in clay oven rolls, a traditional Taiwanese bread stuffed with various fillings such as pork, vegetables, or sweet red bean paste, this stall has gained a following despite its lack of a formal name.

The rolls are baked in a clay oven, giving them a distinct crispy exterior and fluffy interior.The stall has no sign but a crowd in front so youโ€™ll easily spot this street food in Zhongzheng!

4. Shan Nay Chicken

Shan Nay Chicken is a celebrated stall among Taipei street food with Michelin stars, offering a succulent, flavorful rendition of Taiwanese chicken.

The chicken is marinated with a blend of spices and herbs, and then roasted, resulting in meat that is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Shan Nay Chicken is a good takeaway food for dinner or day trip excursions. This food is super portable!

5. Lan Jia Guabao

Lan Jia is my favorite of all the street food in Taipei! Their gua bao is the best and they are always cooked fresh! The lines are always long here so expect to wait at least 15 minutes. They do serve the gua baos fast so you wonโ€™t wait longer than that.

There is a seating area inside but Lan Jia is known as a curbside takeaway joint. They have a small kiosk outside the restaurant for those who donโ€™t want to wait for a table. Gua baos are easy to eat and you can have them on the go.

๐Ÿง‹ Tip: right across Lan Jia Guabao is a buble tea joint. There is no english name but you will see it right away because of the long lines! You can open the location on Google Maps here.

๐Ÿง Datong Taipei Street Food

The Taiwanese street food culture in Datong district is vibrant and deeply rooted in tradition. Datong, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, offers a unique blend of historical charm and culinary delights, making it a fascinating area for food lovers to explore.

From traditional snacks like lu rou fan (braised pork rice) and gua bao (pork belly buns) to innovative desserts that blend old flavors with new, Datong provides a sensory journey through tastes and aromas.

where to stay in taipei
Where to stay in Datong, Taipei

We Come Hostel is one of the best budget accommodations in Datong, Taipei. They always have activities within the hostel which will enable you to meet other solo travelers!

Here are the best street food stalls in Datong, Taipei:

6. Yuan Huan Pien Oyster Egg Omelette

Yuan Huan Pien Oyster Egg Omelette is a culinary treasure among Taipei street food with Michelin stars, serving a dish that captures the essence of Taiwanese coastal cuisine.

Specializing in seafood dishes, Yuan Huan Pien encourages visitors to also try their other offerings, such as the seafood soup, for a broader taste of local flavors.

Pair the omelette with a local Taiwanese beer, available at nearby shops for under $5 USD.

7. Cabbage Rice and Pork Rib Soup

Cabbage Rice and Pork Rib Soup is a hidden gem among Taipei street food with Michelin stars, serving a comforting bowl that embodies the warmth of Taiwanese home cooking.

The soup combines tender pork ribs with sweet cabbage, alongside a serving of fragrant rice, making for a wholesome meal. This dish stands out for its simplicity and depth of flavor, and is my favorite street food when itโ€™s raining in Taipei!

8. This Taiwanese street food open 24/7

taipei itinerary

The street food joint in Datong is in Taiwanese (ไธ–็•Œ็พŽ้ฃŸ็ธฝๅŒฏ) and I have no idea what the English name is. You can open it on Google Maps. Itโ€™s a 24/7 street-food joint so you can decide to visit any time.

This restaurant has a variety of Taiwanese food but I love their beef noodle soup and fried rice. For drinks, the best-seller is the Lassi.

9. Yong Le Market

Yong Le Market is a vibrant hub of street food in Taipei, offering a delightful exploration into Taiwanese culinary traditions within a bustling marketplace setting.

This market is not only a treasure trove of textiles and fabrics but also a haven for food enthusiasts seeking to indulge in authentic Taiwanese dishes.

The street food scene here is rich and varied, showcasing a wide range of cuisines from classic baozi (steamed buns) filled with succulent meats to sweet, sticky rice treats.

For those eager to dive into the local flavors, trying the traditional Taiwanese sausage or a serving of oyster vermicelli soup is a must!

10. Ningxia Night Market

Ningxia Night Market stands out as a cornerstone of street food in Taipei, offering a more intimate and focused experience compared to the cityโ€™s larger night markets.

This market is renowned for its concentration of traditional Taiwanese snacks and dishes, providing a densely packed culinary adventure along a single street.

You can find everything from delicious grilled squid to sweet taro balls, making it a paradise for food lovers. One of the must-try cuisines here is the famed Taiwanese oyster omelette, a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, along with the crispy, golden fried taro cakes.

๐Ÿฅก Songshan Taipei Street Food

Nestled within Taipeiโ€™s dynamic district, Songshan is a hotspot for Taiwanese street food, where traditional flavors meet contemporary innovation.

From succulent skewered meats and freshly made dumplings to innovative takes on bubble tea and shaved ice, Songshan provides a taste of Taiwanโ€™s diverse culinary heritage.

This district is particularly renowned for seamlessly integrating food stalls and markets with the surrounding commercial and residential life, offering an authentic experience of daily life in Taipei.

Here are the must-visit street food stalls in Songshan, Taipei:

11. Mochi Baby

Mochi Baby is a delightful stop for anyone eager to explore Taipei street food with Michelin stars, specializing in the sweet, chewy treats known as mochi.

The traditional mochi here has a variety of flavors and fillings, ranging from classic red bean to innovative matcha and even cheese-filled mochi. Order a mixed box of mochi to sample the wide range of flavors available!

12. A Kuo Lu Wei

A Kuo Lu Wei is a standout stall for those exploring Taipei street food with Michelin stars, offering a delectable selection of lu wei, a Taiwanese braising technique.

The stall allows customers to select from a variety of ingredients, including tofu, vegetables, and meats, which are then braised in a rich, flavorful broth. A Kuo Lu Wei is renowned for its secret sauce, which imparts a unique taste that has locals and tourists alike coming back for more!

13. Dongfahao Fried Rice and Noodles

Dongfahao Fried Rice and Noodles is a cornerstone of Taipei street food, especially celebrated in the Songshan district for its mastery over the simple yet profound art of frying rice and noodles.

The fried rice here is known for its golden color, generous portions of succulent shrimp or pork, and the perfect hint of soy sauce, while the noodles are celebrated for their springy texture and rich, savory sauces.

Recommendations: shrimp fried rice and beef noodles

14. Dong Yin Eatery

Dong Yin Eatery stands out in the vibrant landscape of Taipei Street Food, offering a cozy, inviting atmosphere in Songshan where traditional Taiwanese dishes are served with a touch of home-cooking.

Among the must-try dishes are the braised pork belly and the spicy tofu. The braised pork belly, in particular, is tender, flavorful, and served with a side of pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the meat!

15. Raohe Street Night Market

As one of the oldest and most popular night markets in Taipei, located within the Songshan district, it offers an extensive array of Taiwanese street food, snacks, and sweets.

The market buzzes with energy, with vendors serving everything from succulent grilled meats and seafood to fresh fruit juices and traditional Taiwanese desserts like shaved ice with various toppings.

Must-tries include the pepper pork buns, which are baked in a traditional clay oven, and the stinky tofu, known for its pungent aroma and delicious taste.

Start your food journey from the temple entrance, allowing you to move against the general flow of the crowd for a less congested experience. Visiting on a weekday is also better!

๐Ÿก Wanhua/Ximending Taipei Street Food

Wanhua street food culture is a journey through the oldest district of Taipei. With its historical ambiance and vibrant street life, Wanhua is one of the best places to sample the diversity of street food in Taipei.

where to stay in taipei
Where to stay in Ximending, Taipei

Budget travelers, check outย Meander Hostel Ximendingย where you can stay in a 4-bed dorm for $27.

If itโ€™s your first time to eat Taiwanese street food, this is the best area so start. Here are the best street food stalls in Wanhua and Ximending:

16. Yuan Fang Guabao

Yuan Fang Guabao is a celebrated name among Taipei street food with Michelin stars, offering the iconic Taiwanese street food, guabao. This absolutely means you should not miss this street food joint in Wanhua!

Guabao is a fluffy steamed bun filled with tender, slow-cooked pork belly, pickled mustard greens, cilantro, and ground peanuts. This is one street food in Taipei that you will never get tired of eating. I almost had this everything in Wanhua!

17. Wangโ€™s Broth

Wangโ€™s Broth is a beacon for those in search of Taipei street food with Michelin stars, specializing in nourishing and flavorful broths.

This stall offers a variety of broths, including beef, chicken, and vegetable, each simmered for hours to extract deep flavors. The broths are served with noodles or rice, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Start your day with a bowl of Wangโ€™s Broth as this is a typical breakfast food in Taiwan!

18. Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle

Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle has become synonymous with Taipei street food, particularly known for its thick, smooth, and flavorful vermicelli soup.

This dish, steeped in a rich, slightly spicy broth, is filled with tender flour-rice noodles and a variety of ingredients like braised intestines, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms, offering a burst of flavors with every spoonful.

Tip: Enjoy your bowl of flour-rice noodle with a side of vinegar and chili sauce!

19. Yong He Soy Milk

Yong He Soy Milk is a cornerstone of Taipei street food, offering a traditional breakfast experience that is deeply ingrained in Taiwanese culture.

This stall is famous for its soy milk, served either sweet or salty, and its accompanying array of breakfast items such as youtiao (deep-fried dough sticks), dan bing (egg crepe), and shao bing (sesame flatbread).

Try the salty soy milk, a unique twist to the classic sweet version, offers an authentic taste of traditional Taiwanese breakfast.

20. Ximending Night Market

Ximending Night Market is a vibrant showcase of Taipei Street Food, capturing the youthful energy and innovative spirit of the cityโ€™s food scene.

It offers an extensive array of culinary delights, ranging from traditional Taiwanese snacks like bubble tea and stinky tofu to modern fusion dishes that cater to a diverse palate.

For newcomers to Taipei, a unique travel tip when visiting Ximending Night Market is to explore the surrounding streets and alleys, where many hidden food gems await discovery.

Venturing slightly off the beaten path can lead to less crowded spots with equally delicious offerings, providing a more relaxed and immersive experience in Taipeiโ€™s street food culture.

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๐Ÿœ Shilin Taipei Street Food

Exploring the Shilin street food culture is a dive into the heart of Taiwanese culinary tradition, set against the backdrop of Taipeiโ€™s most famous and expansive night market.

From sizzling barbecue skewers, succulent seafood, and crispy fried chicken to sweet treats like bubble tea and shaved ice loaded with exotic toppings, Shilin offers an endless feast for the senses.

Here are the best street food stalls in Shilin, Taipei:

21. Chung Chia Sheng Jian Bao

Chung Chia Sheng Jian Bao is a must-visit for anyone seeking Taipei street food with Michelin stars. This stall has earned its fame through the exquisite preparation of Sheng Jian Bao, pan-fried buns filled with juicy pork and savory broth.

Here, you can watch the buns being made right in front of you! Theyโ€™re made fresh to order.

22. Good Friend Cold Noodles

Good Friend Cold Noodles introduces a refreshing option to the array of Taipei street food with Michelin stars. This stall specializes in cold noodles, a perfect dish for the hot and humid Taipei weather!

The noodles are served with a variety of toppings, including shredded cucumber, bean sprouts, and a choice of sauces ranging from sesame to spicy. Customize your noodle bowl with different toppings and sauces to find your perfect combination.

23. Shilin Night Market

As Taipeiโ€™s largest and most famous night market, Shilin is a bustling maze of food stalls, each presenting a unique taste of Taiwanโ€™s rich culinary heritage.

You can indulge in everything from classic dishes like beef noodle soup and oyster omelettes to innovative snacks such as cheese potatoes and bubble tea. For a truly iconic experience, sampling the marketโ€™s fried chicken steak and freshly made boba milk tea is a must!

Take advantage of the marketโ€™s late hours. Visiting after 9 PM not only allows for a more leisurely exploration of the stalls but also provides a more authentic experience as the crowds thin out, and you can enjoy the vibrant night market atmosphere.

๐Ÿฆ‘ Daโ€™an Taipei Street Food

Situated in one of Taipeiโ€™s most cosmopolitan districts, Daโ€™an offers a sophisticated blend of Taiwanese street food that caters to both traditional tastes and modern palates.

Daโ€™anโ€™s vibrant street food culture is complemented by its lively atmosphere, with bustling markets and quaint alleyways that invite exploration and discovery.

where to stay in taipei
Where to stay in Daโ€™an, Taipei

Star Hostel Taipei East is one of the highly-rated hostels in Taipei, Star Hostel has 4-bed female (and male) dorms for as low asย $32ย per night.

Here are the street food stalls that you should check out in Daโ€™an, Taipei:

24. Golden Delight Taiwanese Snacks

taipei street food

Golden Delight Taiwanese Snacks is a culinary gem nestled in the Daโ€™an district, celebrated for its authentic representation of Taipei street Food.

Among the must-try items are the lu rou fan (braised pork rice) and the sweet potato balls, both of which are emblematic of Taiwanese street food scene.

25. Shida Night Market

Shida Night Market, located near one of Taipeiโ€™s major universities, offers a youthful twist on Taipei street food, blending traditional tastes with modern influences.

This night market is smaller and less touristy than its counterparts, providing a cozy atmosphere for exploring a diverse selection of Taiwanese street food.

The market is particularly famous for its innovative snacks, vegetarian options, and international cuisines, catering to the eclectic tastes of students and young professionals.

Notable dishes to try include the Taiwanese-style crepes, known for their creative fillings, and the exotic fruit teas that offer a refreshing break from the bustling market environment.

๐Ÿ› Tamsui Taipei Street Food

Tamsui is renowned for its array of Taiwanese street food that captures the essence of local flavors and traditions.

From the savory richness of A-gei, a unique Tamsui specialty consisting of stuffed tofu, to the sweet allure of traditional fish ball soup and the delicious crispy iron eggs, Tamsuiโ€™s street food scene is a vibrant mosaic of tastes and aromas.

Here are the best street food stalls in Tamsui, Taipei:

26. Tamsui Wenhua A-gei

Tamsui Wenhua A-gei is a must-visit for anyone eager to explore the unique flavors of Taipei street food, especially in the picturesque setting of Tamsui.

A-gei, named after the local pronunciation of โ€œabura-ageโ€ (fried tofu), is a distinctive Tamsui delicacy consisting of stuffed tofu, glass noodles, and a special sauce.

This dish is celebrated for its delicious combination of textures and flavors, encapsulating the essence of local cuisine. Tamsui Wenhua A-gei, in particular, stands out for its version of the dish, which has become synonymous with the areaโ€™s food culture.

27. Old Shop Tamsui Fish Ball

Old Shop Tamsui Fish Ball is a celebrated staple of Taipei street food, especially revered for its traditional fish balls that have delighted taste buds for generations.

Located in the historic Tamsui district, this stall is renowned for its fish balls made from a secret family recipe, offering a taste that is both nostalgic and uniquely Tamsui.

The fish balls are notable for their perfect texture and the depth of flavor in the accompanying broth, making them a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

28. Tamsui Zhongzheng Market

Tamsui Zhongzheng Market is an integral part of the vibrant Taipei street food, offering a wide range of traditional Taiwanese and local Tamsui specialties.

Key dishes to try include the Tamsui fish balls, known for their springy texture and flavorful broth, and the sweet peanut soup, a comforting end to any meal.

Visit in the late afternoon. This timing allows you to enjoy the marketโ€™s offerings as an early dinner, followed by the stunning sunset views by the Tamsui waterfront, blending culinary delights with natural beauty.

๐Ÿฑ Beitou Taipei Street Food

Beitou is known for its therapeutic thermal waters and lush surroundings, provides a serene backdrop for enjoying a diverse range of Taiwanese culinary delights.

The street food in Beitou is as comforting as its hot springs, featuring traditional snacks like steamed buns filled with juicy meats, sweet potato balls, and the ever-popular Taiwanese sausage.

Additionally, the local specialty of hot spring eggs, gently cooked in the natural hot spring waters, offers a taste thatโ€™s uniquely Beitou.

Here are the must-visit street food stalls in Beitou, Taipei:

29. Ai Zi Cai Braised Pork Rice

Ai Zi Cai Braised Pork Rice is a gem within the Taipei street food landscape, offering the quintessential Taiwanese dish of braised pork rice with a level of mastery that sets it apart.

This stall draws in foodies with its aromatic, tender braised pork served over perfectly cooked rice. The dish is a simple yet profound representation of Taiwanese comfort food, with flavors that are rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.

Ask for extra pickled vegetables when ordering at Ai Zi Cai. These add a refreshing crunch to balance the richness of the pork!

30. Shipai Night Market

Shipai Night Market is a hidden treasure in the Taipei street food scene, offering a more localized and intimate night market experience away from the cityโ€™s more tourist-centric spots.

You can indulge in everything from grilled meats and seafood to traditional sweets and bubble tea. The market is particularly famous for its stinky tofu, served crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and its variety of noodle dishes, each bursting with flavor.

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Trisha is one of those people who left their comfortable life to travel the world and learn about life. Her style is to stay in one place she likes for 3 months (or more) to know what it feels like to eat, cook, speak, and sleep in another culture that isnโ€™t hers. She'd like to believe she's not traditionally traveling but she just chooses to be somewhere else all the time. In no particular order, her favorite cities in the world are Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, Mexico City, and Tel Aviv.

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