What I ate in Taiwan 😋😋

Traveling to Taiwan offers an unmatched opportunity to indulge in some of the most distinctive and delicious street foods and local specialties. One of my favorite finds was the black pork sausage at Shifen Street, which immediately impressed me with its hand-crafted texture and rich taste of pork fat. It felt like tasting tradition with every bite. I also appreciated how easily accessible these treats are, often right next to popular tourist spots like the railway area where people release lanterns. The tangyuan at Raohe Night Market became an instant favorite due to its chewy texture, which is perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy osmanthus syrup mixed with lemon juice—a truly unique flavor combination that refreshes on a hot day. It taught me how simple additions can elevate street food experiences. Another highlight was Cremia, the Japanese ice cream rare in Singapore but widely loved in Taiwan, especially for its creamy texture and the flavorful biscuit cone. I doubled up on this treat, and it was worth it! Such moments remind me how traveling can bring unique culinary delights not found at home. For dessert lovers, the mango shaved ice from Taroking on Yongkang Street is a perfect choice, particularly during Taiwan's humid summers. Using seasonal fresh mangoes guarantees a refreshing sweet treat, but even when frozen mangoes are used, it loses none of its appeal. I also learned that timing and location matter—as illustrated by my experience with Xing Fu Tang bubble tea. Avoiding the Ximending long queues by ordering at the less busy Shifen location proved to be a smart move that saved time without sacrificing quality. This little tip can really enhance your food adventure. Lastly, the mentaiko salmon onigiri from convenience stores was an unexpected treasure. It was a quick, savory snack that packed a flavorful punch and became my special mention because of how it balanced convenience with gourmet taste. Overall, each dish brought a new appreciation for Taiwan’s vibrant food culture, emphasizing freshness, flavor balance, and the joy of discovering hidden gems. If you’re visiting, these picks not only satisfy hunger but also provide an authentic taste of the island’s rich culinary heritage.