Essential Night Markets to Experience in Taipei (Part 1)

Despite being slightly larger than Belgium, Taiwan is celebrated as a culinary hotspot, boasting around 70 night markets scattered across the island. Taipei alone is home to approximately 30 of these lively markets, making it a great destination for food lovers and nightlife enthusiasts alike. As you navigate through the sizzling stalls filled with the smell of stinky tofu, you’ll have the chance to mingle with the city’s trendy crowd before indulging in some top-tier dishes. (Remember to take cash in small denominations and wear comfortable shoes for the best experience.) Intrigued? Here are ten of the top night markets to explore while in Taipei.

Shilin Night Market

If you visit only one night market in Taipei, head straight to the largest and most popular one. Shilin Night Market is often regarded as Taiwan’s most famous night market, featuring more than 500 stalls during its peak season before the pandemic. Established around 1899, this vibrant marketplace is located near Yangming Theater and Cixian Temple. With its proximity to many schools, it draws a large number of students and locals, giving it an authentic atmosphere. Beyond food, you’ll find areas dedicated to photography, clothing, and home goods, making it ideal for a guided walking tour. While there, don’t miss the massive spiced fried chicken cutlets, flavorful sticky rice-wrapped sausages, and the pan-fried pork buns from Chung Chia Sheng Jian Bao.

Raohe Street Night Market

While small, this night market is packed with charm and history. Raohe Street Night Market, situated in the Songshan district, measures around 1,968 feet (600 meters) in length and is conveniently located near the beautiful Songshan Ciyou Temple, just steps away from the Songshan MRT station. A market tour here will allow you to explore food stalls and browse for toiletries, toys, and traditional souvenirs. Many flock to Hsia Kang Ming Peng for its classic stinky tofu served with zesty pickled cabbage. Near the entrance, A Kuo Lu Wei offers a tempting array of braised and marinated snacks, including their mouthwatering braised duck wings and flavorful baby corn.

Ningxia Night Market

Known for its stylish and organized atmosphere, this night market is particularly appealing to tourists. Ningxia Night Market, located in Datong District near the historic Dadaocheng neighborhood, attracts food tours thanks to its English menus and vendors accepting mobile payments and credit cards. The market is set up with designated lanes for pedestrians and vehicles, making it easier to get around. Be sure to try the savory and sweet oyster egg omelette from Yuan Huan Pien, which has been delighting customers since 1965, accompanied by its homemade sweet hot sauce. If oysters aren’t your preference, many stalls offer tender bowls of lu rou fan (braised fatty pork served over rice).

Huaxi Night Market

This market is beloved by locals for its fresh seafood offerings. Located in the Wanhua District, the lantern-lit streets are among the most historical in Taipei. The aroma of fried delicacies catches your attention as you pass by Longshan Temple and Taiwanese foot spas. Huaxi Night Market is particularly famous for its seafood and local signature dishes like bao, which gained international recognition thanks to night markets like this one. For a savory treat, try Yuan Fang Guabao, featuring pork belly, pickles, and peanuts tucked inside a soft, sweet bao. Alternatively, visit Liang Xi Hao for an enticing thick squid stew, a dish combining squid, bamboo, and bean sprouts.

Shida Night Market

Escape the crowds at this quieter, more affordable night market option. With a trendy university vibe, Shida Night Market, located in the Da’an District, typically offers lower prices compared to other night markets in Taipei. This lesser-known gem is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed experience with shorter queues. In addition to delectable food options, you’ll also find a great selection of stylish, budget-friendly clothing. Popular food stalls include Longquan Fish Soup for hearty oyster or fish soups, and Shi Yun Fried Chicken, notable for its garlic and herb-seasoned poultry which has been a favorite since 1984. Customize your meal by selecting your favorite vegetables or tofu to accompany the fresh, deep-fried chicken served with toothpicks and paper bags.