Food, shopping, wellness, nightlife & luxury experiences in Taipei
The best places to eat in Taipei โ from street food to fine dining
A legendary spot for classic Taiwanese beef noodles. Their rich, clear broth and tender beef are a must-try. Expect a queue during peak hours.
Taipei's most famous breakfast joint, renowned for its thick shaobing (flaky flatbread), hot soy milk, and savory egg crepes. Be prepared for a long line, but it moves quickly.
An iconic spot for Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice), a quintessential Taiwanese comfort food. Their rich, savory pork sauce over rice is simple perfection. Also try their braised eggs and vegetables.
Specializing in oyster and pork intestine vermicelli (Mian Xian). Served standing up, this thick, savory soup is a beloved street food snack. Only one item on the menu, choose your size!
The original branch of the world-famous Michelin-starred restaurant, celebrated for its exquisite xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and other Shanghainese dishes. Expect a wait, but it's worth it.
A vibrant seafood market complex offering various dining experiences: a standing sushi bar, hot pot, charcoal grill, and a supermarket with fresh catches. A lively and delicious experience.
A popular all-you-can-eat hotpot chain offering a wide selection of meats, seafood, vegetables, and multiple soup bases (including spicy mala and herbal). Includes drinks, ice cream, and desserts.
A Michelin 2-star restaurant by Chef Andrรฉ Chiang, offering an innovative interpretation of Taiwanese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and artistic presentation. Reservations are highly competitive.
Taipei's only Michelin 3-star Cantonese restaurant, located in the Palais de Chine Hotel. Known for its exquisite dim sum, roasted duck, and other classic Cantonese dishes prepared with precision and flair.
An exquisite omakase experience from the legendary Tokyo sushi master Shinji Kanesaka. Enjoy meticulously prepared Edomae-style sushi in an intimate setting, with ingredients flown in fresh from Japan.
Taiwan's infamous fermented tofu, deep-fried until crispy outside and soft inside, served with pickled cabbage and chili sauce. Don't let the smell deter you; it's a local delicacy!
A savory omelet made with fresh oysters, eggs, vegetables, and a starchy sauce, grilled until crispy. A classic Taiwanese comfort food.
A massive, flattened chicken cutlet, breaded and deep-fried to perfection, then seasoned with various spices. Crispy, juicy, and incredibly satisfying.
Crispy, savory buns baked in a traditional cylindrical clay oven, filled with peppery pork and green onions. A signature snack of Raohe Night Market.
A grilled Taiwanese pork sausage (the 'small sausage') wrapped in a sticky rice sausage (the 'large sausage'), often served with garlic, basil, and pickled vegetables.
Often called 'Taiwanese hamburger', it's a steamed bun filled with tender braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, cilantro, and crushed peanuts. Soft, savory, and sweet.
Taiwan's most famous drink! Tea (often black or green) mixed with milk, sugar, and chewy tapioca pearls (boba). Available in countless variations.
Flaky, savory scallion pancakes, often pan-fried until golden and crispy. Can be served plain, with egg, or with various fillings.
One of Taipei's largest and most famous night markets, offering an overwhelming array of street food, snacks, and small restaurants. A must-visit for foodies.
A historic and charming night market known for its concentrated street food stalls, including the famous Fuzhou Pepper Buns. It has a more traditional feel.
A local favorite, offering a great selection of traditional Taiwanese snacks and small eateries. It's less touristy than Shilin or Raohe, making it great for an authentic experience.
A traditional wet market during the day, transforming into a hub for local eateries and small restaurants in the evening. Great for authentic local dishes and a glimpse into daily life.
Offers hands-on cooking classes focusing on classic Taiwanese dishes like Gua Bao, Xiaolongbao, and Beef Noodles. Includes a market tour and recipe booklet.
Learn to prepare home-style Taiwanese dishes in a relaxed, friendly environment. Classes often include popular items like spring rolls, dumplings, and local stir-fries. Private classes also available.
Where to shop in Taipei โ districts, markets, and bargains
Taipei's upscale shopping hub, home to Taipei 101, multiple luxury department stores (Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, Breeze Center, Bellavita), and international flagship stores. Great for high-end fashion, electronics, and global brands.
A trendy district known for its fashion boutiques, local designer shops, international streetwear brands, and stylish cafes. Explore the side alleys for unique finds and a more independent shopping experience.
The 'Harajuku of Taipei', a vibrant pedestrian zone popular with youth. You'll find a mix of trendy fashion, streetwear, quirky accessories, souvenir shops, and entertainment.
Beyond food, Shilin offers a vast array of clothing, accessories, gadgets, and souvenirs. It's a great place to browse for trendy, affordable fashion items and gifts.
Taiwan's largest wholesale garment market, but open to retail shoppers. You can find incredibly good deals on trendy clothing, often sold in bundles. It requires patience to sift through the vast selection.
Underneath the Jianguo elevated road, this weekend market transforms into a bustling hub for jade, antiques, and a vibrant flower market. Great for unique gifts and exploring local culture.
A historic street in Dadaocheng known for traditional goods, dried foods, Chinese herbs, tea, and fabrics. It's a sensory experience and perfect for unique culinary souvenirs or traditional crafts.
Authentic keepsakes and what to avoid
Taiwan's most iconic edible souvenir. These buttery shortbread pastries with a sweet and tangy pineapple filling are a must-buy. Look for brands like Chia Te (ไฝณๅพท) or SunnyHills (ๅพฎ็ฑๅฑฑไธ).
Taiwan is famous for its oolong tea, particularly high mountain varieties like Alishan or Lishan. Visit a specialty tea shop or Dihua Street for quality leaves. Packages make beautiful gifts.
While you can't take a full-sized lantern home, miniature versions are popular. They symbolize good fortune and are often decorated with traditional characters or patterns. (Actual full-size lanterns are released in Pingxi).
Yingge is Taiwan's pottery capital. You can find beautiful tea sets, bowls, and decorative items. Many shops in Taipei, especially around Dihua Street, carry Yingge ceramics.
Vibrant floral fabrics, typically in red, blue, or black backgrounds, are characteristic of Hakka culture. You can find them as pouches, bags, or fabric by the meter.
Small, ceramic wind instruments, often shaped like animals or fruits, are popular in Taiwan. They make a unique musical souvenir.
Style hotspots in Taipei
The epicenter of luxury fashion, featuring flagship stores of international high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, and major department stores such as Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, Breeze Center, and Bellavita.
A trendy area filled with local designer boutiques, independent fashion stores, international streetwear brands, and multi-brand concept shops. Explore the back alleys (Dongqu) for unique finds.
For budget-conscious fashionistas, Wufenpu is a treasure trove. It's Taiwan's largest wholesale clothing market, offering a vast selection of trendy and affordable apparel. Great for finding unique pieces at bargain prices.
Relax and rejuvenate in Taipei
Offers a luxurious Balinese-style spa experience with private rooms, essential oil massages, and professional therapists. A tranquil escape from the city bustle.
A very popular chain for traditional Taiwanese foot massages and full-body acupressure. Clean, professional, and excellent value for a relaxing treatment.
Known for its authentic Thai massage techniques, offering deep tissue and stretching to relieve tension. A great option for those seeking a more therapeutic bodywork experience.
A luxurious hot spring resort in Beitou offering private hot spring rooms (day use) and overnight stays. Enjoy high-quality thermal waters with stunning mountain views.
After dark in Taipei
A sophisticated speakeasy bar hidden behind a coffee shop facade. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails, intimate atmosphere, and personalized drinks based on your preferences.
A popular bar with a vibrant atmosphere, often featuring live music. Great for classic cocktails, good food, and a lively crowd. It's a favorite among locals and expats.
A chic rooftop bar located in the Xinyi district, offering stunning views of Taipei 101. It's a popular spot for pre-clubbing drinks or a glamorous night out with a view.
A unique taproom concept offering a wide selection of pre-batched cocktails on tap, ensuring consistency and speed. A great spot to sample various creative drinks in a casual, modern setting.
Experience traditional Chinese opera, aboriginal dances, and acrobatics in a tourist-friendly format. English subtitles and explanations are provided, offering a glimpse into Taiwan's rich performing arts.
A historic and serene tea house set in a beautiful Japanese-style building. Enjoy traditional tea ceremonies and fine Taiwanese teas in a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing evening.
Splurge-worthy experiences in Taipei
Experience unparalleled luxury and service at this five-star hotel, featuring opulent rooms, world-class dining, and a magnificent spa. A true urban oasis.
Hire a private guide and driver for a fully customized tour of Taipei and its surroundings. Explore hidden gems, exclusive cultural sites, or tailored foodie adventures at your own pace.
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei 101, the city skyline, and surrounding mountains with a private helicopter tour. A unique perspective on the bustling metropolis.
Indulge in an exquisite Edomae-style omakase experience from a Michelin-starred chef. Fresh, seasonal ingredients flown from Japan create a memorable culinary journey.
Arrange for a personal shopper at Taipei 101, gain VIP access to luxury boutiques, and enjoy a pampered shopping spree in one of Asia's most iconic towers.
Best cafes and coffee spots in Taipei
Founded by a former World Barista Champion, this cafe is renowned for its exceptional coffee, particularly its pour-overs and creative coffee cocktails. Often has a queue.
A popular Nordic-style cafe known for its clean design, award-winning specialty coffee, and delicious pastries. A great spot for a relaxed morning or afternoon.
Located in the leafy Fujin Street area, this chic cafe offers a sophisticated ambiance, good coffee, and light meals. Perfect for people-watching and enjoying the trendy neighborhood.
A cozy, minimalist cafe tucked away, known for its friendly atmosphere and high-quality espresso-based drinks and pour-overs. A local favorite for a quiet coffee break.
A rapidly growing local chain offering good quality coffee and a wide range of beverages at very affordable prices. Great for a quick, reliable coffee fix.
Housed in a beautifully restored old building, this cafe offers a unique rustic-chic ambiance. They roast their own beans and serve excellent coffee, along with a selection of pastries.