Exploring Taiwanese Cuisine: From Fresh Seafood to Traditional Dishes

Taiwan is a paradise for food lovers. As an island surrounded by the ocean and rich in cultural history, its cuisine offers a unique blend of traditional Chinese cooking techniques, Japanese influences, and modern innovations. If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan in 2026, here are the best restaurant recommendations you absolutely must visit.

1. The Deliciousness of Seafood

Due to its strategic location, Taiwan has access to incredibly fresh seafood.

Addiction Aquatic Development (AAD), Taipei: This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a clean and luxurious modern fish market. You can directly choose fresh seafood and enjoy it at the standing sushi bar area or outdoor restaurant. For the best experience, order the famous assorted sashimi and king crab. You can check the operating hours on the official AAD website. Restaurants at Keelung Port: If you want a more local new york deli atmosphere, go to Keelung Port. Restaurants along the harbor offer “Live Seafood” where fish, shrimp, and shellfish are cooked moments after you select them from the aquarium.

2. Authentic Taiwanese Cuisine

Taiwanese cuisine is known for its use of local ingredients and balanced flavors between sweet and savory.

Shin Yeh Taiwanese Signature: Established in 1977, Shin Yeh is a culinary institution in Taipei. They serve classic dishes like tender Cah Hati Babi (stir-fried pig liver) and Nasi Ketan Kepiting (sticky rice with crab). This restaurant is perfect for a formal family dinner. Book your place thru the Shin Yeh Group.
Mountain and Sea House: For those seeking a luxurious experience, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves “Ban-Toh” cuisine (traditional banquet) with organic ingredients. The retro-style interior decoration takes you back to the golden era of 1930s Taiwan.

3. Iconic Cuisine: Xiao Long Bao & Beef Noodle

A trip to Taiwan isn’t complete without trying these two most phenomenal dishes.

Din Tai Fung: Despite having branches worldwide, tasting Xiao Long Bao at the original store on Xinyi Road in Taipei still offers a different sensation. The precision in every dumpling fold is unmatched. Use the Din Tai Fung app to monitor the usually quite long wait times.
Lin Dong Fang Beef Noodles: Located on Bade Road, this restaurant is legendary for its rich, flavorful broth and incredibly tender beef. Don’t forget to add a spoonful of their signature spicy beef fat to enhance the flavor.

4. Nite Markets

To taste authentic “Zhenzhu Naicha” (Bubble Tea) or Stinky Tofu, the nite market is the place to be. Raohe Nite Market and Ningxia Nite Market in Taipei are top choices for foodies who want to sample Michelin Bib Gourmand-quality street food, such as oyster omelets and XXL fried chicken.

Tips for Travelers

In 2026, most popular restaurants in Taiwan will require online reservations several weeks in advance. Make sure you have a stable internet connection to use map and table booking applications.

With a blend of tradition and modernity, every bite in Taiwan tells a story of its natural wealth and the friendliness of its people. Enjoy your culinary journey!