Welcome to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s vibrant coastal city renowned for its bustling night markets, authentic Taiwanese food, and rich culinary culture. If you’re a food lover, Kaohsiung will undoubtedly entice your taste buds with its diverse and delectable offerings. From traditional street food to high-end restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Let’s dive into the culinary wonders of this remarkable city!
Exploring Kaohsiung’s Night Markets
One of the best ways to experience Kaohsiung’s culinary scene is by visiting its lively night markets. These markets are a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide array of local delicacies that you must try.
- Liouhe Tourist Night Market: Located in the heart of Kaohsiung, this market is famous for its stinky tofu, grilled squid, and bubble tea. It’s a great spot to dive into local flavors.
- Ruifeng Night Market: Known for its extensive food options, don’t miss the beef cubes, oyster omelet, and fried chicken steaks. This market promises a true gourmet experience.
- Kaisyuan Night Market: This lesser-known gem offers delicious fried bao, meat skewers, and mango shaved ice.
Must-Try Traditional Taiwanese Dishes
While in Kaohsiung, there are several traditional Taiwanese dishes that you simply cannot miss. These iconic foods give you a taste of the local heritage and culinary expertise.
- Beef Noodles: A comfort food staple in Taiwan. You’ll find it offered with rich broths, tender beef, and deliciously chewy noodles at places like Gang Yuan Beef Noodles.
- Oyster Omelet: Found commonly in night markets, this dish features oysters, eggs, and a flavorful sauce that makes it unforgettable.
- Milkfish Congee: A local favorite, especially in the morning. The fresh fish, combined with rice porridge, makes for a nutritious meal.
Restaurants to Satisfy Your Culinary Cravings
Kaohsiung hosts a myriad of restaurants where you can indulge in both local and international cuisines. Here are some top recommendations:
- Din Tai Fung: Loved for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), this renowned chain offers a consistently delightful dining experience.
- Shantou Chuan Cheng Hotpot: A fantastic spot for hot pot enthusiasts, known for its fresh ingredients and savory broths.
- Old New Taiwanese Cuisine: If you’re looking for a fusion of modern and traditional dishes, this is the place to be. Their creative takes on classic snacks are a must-try.
Exploring Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Kaohsiung isn’t just about meat dishes; there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options sure to delight. These restaurants offer innovative and delicious plant-based meals:
- Hi-Lai Vegetarian Restaurant: A popular spot offering a variety of vegetarian dishes with an Asian twist.
- Mottainai Plant: Known for its fresh ingredients and creative vegan dishes, this cozy spot is perfect for any plant-based foodie.
- Ye Shu Shu Shi American Restaurant: Combining healthy eating with tasty food, their menu features a range of dishes from salads to hearty mains.
