A Culinary and Cultural Adventure
by Adeline Soh
Taipei’s night markets are renowned for their mouthwatering street food. You can find an astonishing variety of dishes, from the iconic stinky tofu and oyster omelettes to pork pepper buns and bubble milk tea. Each night market may have its own specialties, so exploring multiple markets is a must for food enthusiasts. Here are a few of the most famous night markets in Taipei:
1) Shilin Night Market
Image credit: Taiwan Tourism Administration’s Taiwan Tourism Information
Shilin Night Market is one of the largest and most diverse night markets in Taipei. It spans several streets and alleyways, offering an extensive range of food stalls, clothing shops, accessories, and entertainment options. You’ll find everything from traditional Taiwanese snacks to trendy fashion items.
Shilin Night Market is renowned for its delicious street food offerings. Some must-try dishes include:
Image credit: Pixabay (jsbaw7160)
- Shilin Large Sausage: A popular Taiwanese sausage wrapped in a sticky rice “bun.”
- Stinky Tofu: This fermented tofu dish is a Taipei night market classic.
- Hot Star Fried Chicken: Known for its enormous fried chicken cutlets that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Oyster Omelettes: A savory omelette made with fresh oysters, vegetables, and a starchy batter.
Address: No. 101, Jihe Road, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
MRT Station: The nearest MRT station to Shilin Night Market is Jiantan Station, which is on the MRT Red Line. From Jiantan Station, it’s just a short walk to the night market.
2) Raohe Street Night Market
Image credit: Taiwan Tourism Administration’s Taiwan Tourism Information
Raohe Street Night Market is one of Taipei’s most beloved and historic night markets. Located in the Songshan District, it’s renowned for its delicious street food, lively atmosphere, and cultural significance. Raohe Street Night Market has a rich history dating back to the Qing Dynasty, making it one of Taipei’s oldest night markets. Its historical significance adds to the market’s unique charm. The market is housed in a covered corridor, which gives it a nostalgic and traditional ambiance.
Image credit: Taiwan Tourism Administration’s Taiwan Tourism Information
Like many other Taiwanese night markets, Raohe Street Night Market is famous for its delectable street food. Some must-try dishes and snacks include:
- Fuzhou Pepper Buns: These savory buns are filled with seasoned pork and green onions and are cooked in a tandoor-style oven.
- Black Pepper Bun: Similar to the Fuzhou Pepper Buns, these are filled with a delicious mixture of pork and black pepper.
- Stinky Tofu: A classic Taiwanese snack known for its pungent aroma and unique flavor.
- Beef Noodles: Some stalls at Raohe Street Night Market serve delicious beef noodle soup, a Taiwanese comfort food staple.
- Temple Visit: Near the entrance of the night market stands the Ciyou Temple, a beautifully ornate temple dedicated to the goddess Mazu. Visitors often take a moment to explore the temple and make offerings before or after enjoying the market’s offerings.
Address: Raohe Street, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
MRT Station: The nearest MRT station to Raohe Street Night Market is Songshan Station, which is just a short walk away.
3) Ningxia Night Market
Image credit: Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government
Image credit: Flickr (m-louis)
Ningxia Night Market is a smaller but equally popular night market famous for its delectable Taiwanese street food. Located in the Datong District of Taipei, Ningxia Night Market is smaller than some of the city’s larger markets, but it’s renowned for its authentic Taiwanese flavors and bustling atmosphere.
Ningxia Night Market is a true food lover’s paradise. It’s famous for its wide array of Taiwanese street food, including both traditional classics and innovative creations. Some must-try dishes and snacks include:
- Oyster Omelets: A Taiwanese favorite, these omelets are made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a starchy batter.
- Fried Buns with Condensed Milk: Crispy and flaky baked buns served with sweet condensed milk.
- Mochi: A chewy rice cake dessert that comes in various flavors and fillings.
- Luwei: A popular Taiwanese street food, Luwei features a selection of braised and marinated meats, tofu, and vegetables.
Address: Ningxia Road, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
MRT Station: The nearest MRT station to Ningxia Night Market is Shuanglian Station, which is within walking distance.
4) Tonghua Night Market
Image credit: Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government
Image credit: Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government
Tonghua Night Market, also known as Linjiang Street Night Market, is a charming and lesser-known night market located in the Daan District of Taipei, Taiwan. While it may not be as famous as some of Taipei’s larger night markets, Tonghua Night Market offers a unique and more relaxed atmosphere, making it a favourite among locals. Compared to larger and more crowded night markets, Tonghua Night Market offers a more relaxed and comfortable environment. The narrower street and smaller crowds make it easier to explore at a leisurely pace.
Address: Tonghua Street, Daan District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
MRT Station: The nearest MRT station to Tonghua Night Market is Liuzhangli Station, which is within walking distance.
5) Huaxi Street Night Market
Image credit: Taiwan Tourism Administration’s Taiwan Tourism Information
Huaxi Street Night Market, also known as Snake Alley, is one of Taipei’s most unique and controversial night markets. Located in the Wanhua District, Huaxi Street Night Market is best known for its exotic and controversial food offerings. It’s important to note that Huaxi Street Night Market’s exotic food offerings, particularly the consumption of snakes and other reptiles, have sparked controversy and debate over the years. Some people visit the market out of curiosity, while others may find the concept of consuming such animals unsettling.
Address: Huaxi Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
MRT Station: The nearest MRT station to Huaxi Street Night Market is Longshan Temple Station, which is within walking distance.
6) Ximending Night Market
Image credit: Taiwan Tourism Administration’s Taiwan Tourism Information
Ximending Night Market is not a traditional night market in the same sense as many others in Taipei. Instead, it is a vibrant shopping and entertainment district that comes alive in the evenings, offering a unique blend of modern trends and youthful energy. Located in the Wanhua District of Taipei, Ximending is often referred to as the “Harajuku of Taipei” due to its fashion-forward and trendy atmosphere. You can find everything from fashion and cosmetics to electronics and souvenirs. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for the latest trends and unique items.
Address: Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
MRT Station: The nearest MRT station to Ximending is Ximen Station, which is right at the heart of the district.
These are just a few of the famous night markets in Taipei. Each of them offers a unique experience and a chance to savour different aspects of Taiwanese culture and cuisine. Exploring multiple night markets is a great way to fully immerse yourself in Taipei’s vibrant street food scene.
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