Best Places To Eat In Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung, a bustling city located in the south of Taiwan, is a haven for foodies. With a plethora of choices ranging from traditional Taiwanese street food to upscale dining experiences, Kaohsiung offers something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to eat in Kaohsiung.

The Ultimate Foodie Guide to Kaohsiung: What You Need to Know

Before we dive into the best places to eat in Kaohsiung, let’s take a closer look at what makes this city a food lover’s paradise.

What is Kaohsiung Cuisine?

Kaohsiung cuisine is a unique blend of Taiwanese and Hakka cuisine. The city is known for its seafood, which is sourced from the nearby waters of the Taiwan Strait. In addition to seafood, Kaohsiung is also home to a variety of indigenous Taiwanese ingredients such as bamboo shoots, taro, and sweet potato leaves.

What Makes Kaohsiung Food Special?

Kaohsiung is a melting pot of cultures, and its food reflects this diversity. You’ll find everything from traditional Taiwanese street food to upscale fusion cuisine. What sets Kaohsiung food apart is its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its creative, innovative dishes.

What Are the Best Times to Visit Kaohsiung for Food?

While the food in Kaohsiung is delicious year-round, there are a few times of the year when it is particularly special. The summer months are a great time to visit for seafood, as the waters are warm and the catch is plentiful. The Lunar New Year is another great time to visit, as many restaurants offer special menus and dishes to celebrate the occasion.

How Do I Get Around Kaohsiung to Find the Best Food?

Kaohsiung has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and a metro system. Taxis are also readily available. If you’re looking to explore the city’s food scene, we recommend walking or cycling, as many of the best places to eat are located in the city’s bustling night markets and pedestrian-only areas.

Are There Any Food Festivals in Kaohsiung?

Yes! Kaohsiung is home to several food festivals throughout the year, including the Kaohsiung Lantern Festival and the International Seafood Expo. These festivals offer a great opportunity to sample the city’s best food and drink in a fun, festive atmosphere.

What Should I Expect to Pay for Food in Kaohsiung?

The cost of food in Kaohsiung can vary depending on where you go. Street food and local eateries are generally very affordable, with dishes costing anywhere from NT$30 to NT$150. Upscale restaurants and fine dining establishments can be more expensive, with prices ranging from NT$500 to NT$3000 per dish.

The Best Places to Eat in Kaohsiung

Now that you know what makes Kaohsiung food so special, let’s dive into the best places to eat in the city.

Liuhe Night Market 🍢

Liuhe Night Market is one of Kaohsiung’s most famous night markets, and for good reason. This bustling market is home to dozens of food stalls selling everything from grilled squid and oyster omelettes to fried chicken and bubble tea. Don’t miss the famous pork pepper buns from Ah-Jung Gua Bao – they’re a must-try!

Ruifeng Night Market 🍜

Another must-visit night market in Kaohsiung is Ruifeng Night Market. This market is known for its vast array of street food, including Taiwanese favorites like stinky tofu, beef noodle soup, and oyster-vermicelli soup. Make sure to try the oyster omelette at Jhongshan Oyster Omelette – it’s one of the best in the city.

Gang Yuan Beef Noodle Soup 🍲

If you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of beef noodle soup, head to Gang Yuan Beef Noodle Soup. This local establishment has been serving up delicious bowls of beef noodle soup for over 30 years. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the noodles are perfectly cooked.

Din Tai Fung 🥟

Din Tai Fung is a household name in Taiwan, and for good reason. This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its delicious steamed dumplings, which are handmade to order and filled with juicy pork or flavorful shrimp. Don’t miss the other delicious dishes on the menu, including the fried rice with pork chop and the braised beef noodle soup.

Cijin Seafood 🍤

If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, head to Cijin Island. This small island is just a short ferry ride from the main port in Kaohsiung, and it’s home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the city. Don’t miss the grilled squid at Shen’s Grilled Squid – it’s out of this world.

Jiu Zhen Nan 🍗

Jiu Zhen Nan is a local favorite for traditional Taiwanese dishes. The restaurant is known for its delicious chicken rice, which is served with succulent poached chicken, fragrant rice, and a flavorful sauce. Make sure to also try the stir-fried water spinach and the deep-fried pork chop – they’re both delicious.

A Liang Pork Ribs Soup 🍜

A Liang Pork Ribs Soup is a beloved local establishment that has been serving up delicious bowls of pork ribs soup for over 60 years. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the pork ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender.

Gao Yuan Lu Wei 🥦

Gao Yuan Lu Wei is a popular spot for Taiwanese hot pot. Choose from a variety of fresh vegetables, meats, and seafood to cook in a flavorful broth at your table. Don’t miss the signature lu wei sauce, which is a delicious blend of soy sauce, garlic, and spices.

Mei Sheng Xi Xian Guan 🍲

Mei Sheng Xi Xian Guan is a local favorite for Taiwanese-style hot and sour soup. The soup is made with fresh ingredients like bamboo shoots, black fungus, and tofu, and it’s packed with flavor and spice.

Lin’s House of Stinky Tofu 🧀

If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Lin’s House of Stinky Tofu for a taste of one of Taiwan’s most polarizing dishes. The tofu is marinated in a brine made with milk, vegetables, and Chinese herbs, giving it a pungent, slightly sweet flavor.

Le Cordon Bleu 🍽️

If you’re looking for a fine dining experience in Kaohsiung, head to Le Cordon Bleu. This French-inspired restaurant offers a range of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss the seared foie gras with fig compote and the wagyu beef fillet with truffle mashed potatoes.

Patisserie La Douceur 🍰

For a sweet treat in Kaohsiung, head to Patisserie La Douceur. This charming bakery offers a range of French-inspired pastries and desserts, including macarons, croissants, and tarts. Don’t miss the signature La Douceur cake, which is made with layers of hazelnut mousse and chocolate ganache.

Chun Shui Tang 🧋

Chun Shui Tang is the birthplace of bubble tea, and it’s still one of the best places in Kaohsiung to enjoy this Taiwanese favorite. Choose from a range of flavors, including classic milk tea, fruit teas, and matcha lattes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Must-Try Taiwanese Dishes in Kaohsiung?

Some must-try Taiwanese dishes in Kaohsiung include beef noodle soup, oyster omelette, stinky tofu, and bubble tea.

Can I Find Vegetarian and Vegan Food in Kaohsiung?

Yes! Kaohsiung has a growing vegetarian and vegan food scene, with many restaurants offering meat-free options. Some popular vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Kaohsiung include Loving Hut and The Green House.

Are There Any Food Allergies I Should Be Aware of When Eating in Kaohsiung?

Some common allergens in Kaohsiung cuisine include peanuts, soy, and seafood. Be sure to inform your server of any food allergies before ordering.

How Do I Order Food in Kaohsiung if I Don’t Speak