Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Diving into the culinary richness of Taiwan is an essential adventure for any expatriate eager to understand their new home. From the bustling energy of night markets to the savory delights of small street-corner eateries, Taiwanese cuisine offers a palette of flavors that will amaze the taste buds of the most curious. This culinary guide, designed for expatriates, will open the doors to this unique gastronomic heritage, allowing you to explore iconic dishes such as braised beef, xiaolongbao, or bubble tea with a discerning eye and an insatiable appetite.
The gastronomic specifics of Taiwan and their cultural importance
Iconic dishes of Taiwan and their history
Stinky tofu is a must-have in Taiwanese cuisine. Originating from China, it was adopted and transformed by the Taiwanese to become a staple of night markets. This fermented tofu, famous for its pungent odor sometimes reminiscent of strong cheese, comes in several versions: fried with pickled cabbage and garlic sauce, steamed for a more pronounced flavor, or grilled with local spices. Traditional fermentation can last several months and reflects an ancient culinary mastery that enriches its complex aromas.
Xiao long bao, small steamed dumplings filled with savory broth, have their roots in southern China but have become a signature dish in Taiwan. Their finesse lies in the balance between the thin dough and the juicy filling, usually made of pork. Enjoyed in both high-end restaurants and local markets like Shilin Night Market in Taipei, these bites illustrate Chinese influence while incorporating techniques unique to Taiwanese craftsmanship.
Bubble tea: a modern symbol
Created in the 1980s in Taiwan, bubble tea is now an iconic drink recognized worldwide. A unique blend of sweetened black or green tea with milk and chewy tapioca pearls, it perfectly embodies Taiwanese culinary innovation while remaining rooted in local tea traditions. Modern variations include exotic flavors such as matcha or local tropical fruits.
Night markets: the beating culinary heart
Night markets represent much more than just a food destination; they are at the very center of Taiwanese social life. These lively places offer visitors total immersion in local culture through countless stalls offering traditional dishes like lu rou fan (braised pork rice) or contemporary snacks such as crispy fried chicken flavored with local basil. These spaces also foster exchange between locals and curious travelers.
Tips for exploring this culinary richness
To fully appreciate this unique gastronomic diversity during a stay in Taiwan, it is advisable to dare to taste even what seems unusual—like trying different preparations of stinky tofu according to each region—and engage in conversation with local vendors about their family recipes, often passed down through generations. Sharing these culinary discoveries with local friends not only enhances your experience but also deepens your understanding of their warm culture centered on hospitality through shared food around a common table!
Good to know:
Taiwanese cuisine is a rich blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences, where each dish tells a unique story. Stinky tofu, despite its pungent smell, is a night market staple, often fermented and served fried or stewed, reflecting ancient East Asian traditions. Xiao long bao, small steamed bites, come from Chinese cuisine and offer a delicate balance of texture and flavor, while the famous bubble tea, born in Taiwan in the 1980s, has become a global phenomenon, illustrating Taiwanese culinary innovation. These night markets are not just a paradise for food lovers but also social gathering places, strengthening community bonds. Expatriates are encouraged to venture there to taste the culinary diversity, engaging in conversation with locals, thereby discovering cultural anecdotes that enrich their stay. Embracing the curious spirit of the Taiwanese and sharing a meal can open doors to deeper integration.
Exploring traditional markets and iconic restaurants
Traditional markets in Taiwan
Shilin Night Market, located in Taipei, is one of the most iconic and popular in Taiwan. It stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and numerous culinary specialties. Must-try dishes include the famous stinky tofu, giant fried chicken steaks, and oyster omelets. This market attracts both locals and tourists thanks to its unique mix of nighttime entertainment and varied food options. Other markets like Dongmen offer a more focused experience on daily Taiwanese life with fresh, local products.
Iconic dishes and renowned restaurants
Soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) are a Taiwanese classic that must be tasted during a visit to renowned establishments such as Din Tai Fung, world-famous for its perfection in the art of folding steamed dumplings. Beef noodles, another flagship dish, can be enjoyed at recognized places like Lin Dong Fang in Taipei, which offers a rich, flavorful version with a long-simmered broth. Finally, stinky tofu remains a bold but highly appreciated specialty in night markets like Raohe.
The unique experience of street food
Taiwanese gastronomy stands out for its lively culinary scene where every market becomes a feast for the senses: enticing smells, vibrant colors, and bustling sounds are an integral part of the culinary journey. Stalls offer an impressive range from bubble tea to local desserts like pineapple cake or shaved ice topped with fresh tropical fruits.
Practical tips for expatriates
To fully enjoy night markets or traditional Taiwanese restaurants, it is advisable to always carry some cash as many do not accept credit cards. When ordering your meal from stalls or small family establishments: be patient, observe what locals order, and don’t hesitate to ask the vendor for advice to discover their best homemade specialties! Respecting the order in queues is also essential to fully appreciate this unique cultural immersion in peace.
Good to know:
In Taiwan, exploring traditional markets like Shilin Night Market and Dongmen Market is a dive into local culture, where intoxicating aromas and lively ambiance captivate the senses. Iconic dishes such as delicate soup dumplings, uniquely flavored stinky tofu, and rich beef noodles are must-tries. To enjoy them, visit renowned restaurants like Din Tai Fung for dumplings or Yong Kang Beef Noodles for noodles. During your explorations, remember that ordering is often done from menus in Mandarin, so prepare by learning a few key phrases or using translation apps. Respecting local customs, like waiting for all diners to be served before starting to eat, enriches the street food experience, which stands out for its unmatched friendliness and dynamism.
Table etiquette tips for adapting to different contexts
Rules and customs during meals in Taiwan
In Taiwan, meals are rich in traditions and symbols. A fundamental rule is to never stick your chopsticks vertically into rice, as this evokes incense sticks used to honor the deceased, an image associated with mourning. Chopsticks should be placed on a chopstick rest or on the table after use. Additionally, it is discouraged to tap your chopsticks against your bowl or play with them, gestures seen as disrespectful.
The “Ganbei” toast, which literally means “empty your glass,” is central during celebrations. Toasts follow a strict hierarchy: the eldest or superior raises their glass first, while others adjust the height of theirs to show respect. “Ganbei” often involves drinking bottoms up to honor the other person; however, if you wish to politely refuse alcohol without offending your host, simply explain your reasons sincerely.
Meals in Taiwan emphasize sharing: each dish is placed in the center, and communal utensils are used to serve oneself to avoid cross-contamination. It is also appropriate to leave a little food on your plate to signal that you are full; finishing completely could be interpreted as a lack of abundance in hospitality.
Finally, respecting elders is paramount: they often choose first from the dishes served at the table. An interesting anecdote highlights that in Taiwan, dropping your chopsticks might lead someone to immediately offer another meal as a soothing gesture for the potential embarrassment caused by this culturally sensitive incident. These details enrich each Taiwanese culinary experience with a unique depth rooted in its millennia-old traditions.
Good to know:
In Taiwan, meals are governed by customs that reflect respect and social harmony. It is crucial not to stick your chopsticks vertically into rice, as this gesture recalls funeral rites. During toasts, holding your glass slightly lower than that of an elder is a sign of respect, and a “ganbei” means emptying your glass in one go, but a polite refusal of alcohol is accepted, for example, by saying your doctor advises against it. Leave a little food on your plate to show you are satisfied, but do not force elders to serve themselves first; wait for them to choose before you. Share food using serving utensils to maintain hygiene. An interesting cultural anecdote: during a banquet, the host might refill your bowl as soon as it empties, a gesture of generosity, but gently indicating you have had enough can avoid waste by stating that your “belly is happy.”
Where to find international ingredients in Taiwan
Local and night markets in Taiwan
Taiwan is renowned for its night markets, true cultural and gastronomic institutions. In Taipei, places like Shilin Market or Raohe Market attract a local and international crowd thanks to their lively atmosphere and varied culinary specialties. Shilin is famous for its giant fried chicken and bubble tea desserts, while Raohe offers more traditional dishes such as pork soup or grilled squid. Kaohsiung is not to be outdone with markets like Liuhe, where fresh seafood and typical snacks abound. These spots are ideal for discovering authentic Taiwanese cuisine while enjoying an immersive experience.
Supermarkets specializing in international products
For expatriates looking for specific ingredients, several stores stand out for their import offerings. Carrefour offers a wide range of French products, while Costco excels in bulk sales of Western ingredients like cheddar or mozzarella. City Super stands out for its high-end assortment including European cheeses and rare spices. In Taipei, Goodwell Cheese House offers an impressive selection of imported cheeses, as does Lutetia, which also allows online orders.
Digital access to food products
E-commerce simplifies access to international ingredients with options such as PX Mart Online or dedicated platforms offered by Lutetia for ordering directly from home. Mobile apps like Foodpanda or Uber Eats also allow the purchase of specific ingredients from local gourmet stores offering fast delivery.
Language tips for finding your ingredients
To facilitate your shopping on site, it can be useful to learn a few keywords in Mandarin related to your searches (for example: “奶酪” – cheese). If in doubt about a rare ingredient in a local covered market like Nanmen Market in Taipei, showing a photo of the desired product can often be enough to guide vendors to what you need!
Good to know:
To find international ingredients in Taiwan, explore night markets and specialized supermarkets in districts like Taipei or Kaohsiung, which are full of varied food products. Stores such as Jason’s Market Place and City Super offer a wide range of imported products from the West, Asia, or the Middle East. Online, gourmet stores and delivery services like iHerb and Foodpanda make it easy to access specific ingredients. Mastering a few phrases in Mandarin like “Wo keyi mai…?” (Can I buy…?) can help find desired products. Apps like OpenRice also make it easy to locate these culinary treasures.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
