Essential Night Markets to Experience in Taipei (Part 2)

Tonghua Night Market

If you’re looking for authentic Taiwanese dishes, this local favorite is the place to be. Also known as Linjiang Night Market, this Taipei street food destination is easily accessible via hop-on, hop-off bus tours. During the day, the vendors sell fresh produce, but by night, Tonghua comes alive as a bustling nightlife spot predominantly frequented by locals. Its smaller, quieter atmosphere makes it a delightful spot to explore solo.

Here, you can indulge in traditional treats like skewers, aiyu jelly, fried chicken, and gua bao (pork belly buns). Don’t miss the Four Herbs Soup, known for its hearty dish packed with offal, mushrooms, yam, and lotus seeds. For glutinous rice dumplings, head to Yu Pin Yuan Binghuo Tangyuan, where you’ll find the house specialty—hot sesame-filled dumplings served over a sweet osmanthus syrup-soaked ice base.

Nanjichang Night Market

Considered by some as the most authentic night market in Taipei, Nanjichang Night Market, also known as South Airport Night Market, is often overlooked by tourists. For a smoother experience, you might want to go with a guide, as many vendors speak minimal English, although English menus are becoming more common. The stalls are numbered, making it relatively easy to navigate.

Follow the crowd to A Nan Sesame Oil Chicken for a comforting bowl of tender, deboned chicken legs served with rice vermicelli. Another must-try is Wu Wang Tsai Chi, which offers Taiwanese-style spring rolls filled with a selection of ten different ingredients, including yuk sung (pork “floss”), bean sprouts, and peanut powder.

Yansan Night Market

This charming, no-frills night market is one of the oldest in Taipei, nestled in the Datong District. Locals often stop by after work to enjoy quick and affordable traditional Taiwanese meals. Adventurous eaters can savor the flavors of sweet and savory oyster omelets or try a classic at Da Qiao Tou Old Brand Rice Tube Pudding, serving since 1973.

Patrons particularly love its pork-filled sticky rice, complemented by the shop’s homemade sweet chili and spicy radish sauces. Another highlight is Shi Jia Fresh Meat Tangyuan, known for its delectable, juicy pork-filled dumplings. A night market tour allows you to sample a variety of popular dishes without having to choose just one.

Gongguan Night Market

Mix and mingle with university students on the hunt for the most authentic bites at Gongguan Night Market. Unlike other night markets, this one in the Zhongzheng District is more focused on food than retail. Located just a couple of blocks from National Taiwan University, the market buzzes with activity among local students, enhancing its authentic vibe.

At Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancakes, savor delicious green onion pancakes. This Michelin-recognized stall even allows you to customize your dish with various toppings. For dessert, head to Ho’s Sweet Potato Balls, where you can enjoy crispy, chewy fried treats.

Lehua Night Market

Located in the Yonghe District of New Taipei City, Lehua Night Market invites you to sample Taiwanese delights, including shaved ice, pork ribs, and skewers. Established in the 1970s, this sizable market features food stalls separated from clothing vendors for convenient browsing.

For a classic treat, visit A-ba’s Taro Ball Lehua Shop for traditional Taiwanese shaved ice where you can choose your toppings or try the signature Taro Ice—a delightful mix of taro, sweet potato, and boba balls. Other popular offerings at the market include deep-fried pork rib soup and skewers.