When people say Taiwan, they always think of Taipei. But less than two hours away from Taipei is the city of Taichung where you will discover delicious food and amazing people that will serve you with a smile.
Arriving via an EVA Air flight from Manila to Taipei, we headed straight to Taichung. It was a few hours away from the big city, but Taichung has a heart of a big city. It boasts of bright lights and a distinct smell that lets you know you’ll go home with a full stomach, always.
Here is a quick guide on where to eat at Taichung!
Fu Din Wang
You will not be disappointed because Fu Din Wang has a variety of food you can choose from.
One thing we can suggest is the Braised Pork Belly which is served with side dishes and is perfect with rice.
The specialty of Fu Din Wang is the Pork Knuckles which are cooked to perfection and braised with spices and ingredients that you will surely love. You gotta save your appetite before visiting because you will surely order some extra rice.
Address: No. 560, Sec. 1, Taiwan Blvd., Central District, Taichung City 400, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Operating Hours: 11:00-20:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)
Han Lin Tea Room
Opened in 1986, Han Lin Tea Room first boomed in Tainan. Unlike most traditional tea houses, Han Lin Tea Room also offers food that is perfect to pair with hot or cold tea. The business was the first to offer tapioca and pearl milk tea which is now fondly called Bubble Tea.
If you like noodles or ramen, the tea noodles will surely fill your appetite.
But if you want rice and something heavier, you can try their famous three-cup chicken that is served with soup, vegetables, and rice.
Address: 1F, No.919, Section 2, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan, (R.O.C.)
Operating Hours: 11:00-22:00
J&G Fried Chicken
Started in 1973, J&G started with just a street sign on Jiguang Taichung. They use beer wheat to marinate their famous chicken fillets before frying to golden perfection and then spiced.
What we loved were the spicy chicken fillet and the squid. It is perfect to pair with some beer.
You can get a set so you can try all kinds. They also serve fries on the side! A stop at J&G is perfect after a long day of going around and shopping.
Address: No.91, Jiguang St., Central District, Taichung City, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Operating Hours: 11:30-22:00
Arashi
Located inside Taichung 2nd Market, Arashi is a friendly neighborhood restaurant that was founded by Ms. Lan in 1992. She says she learned her cooking techniques from her mom and now she cooks all the delicious food they offer.
Arashi is most known for their best-marinated minced pork sauce. They also serve meatballs and wonton that are super affordable.
The minced pork is best tasted over rice and topped with scallions. When you taste this, be ready to order more bowls!
Address: No.36, Sec.2, Sanmin Rd., Central Dist., Taichung City, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
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Taichung is a charming city with a food scene you can’t resist. Aside from these restaurants, you can also try one of Taiwan’s famous night markets where you can find more food. They’re sprinkled everywhere in the country, so don’t forget to visit one to complete your Taiwan experience! One of Taiwan’s biggest night markets, FengJia Night Market, is located in Taichung.
Want to read more about Taiwan? Check out The People, The Food, The Art: A First-Timer’s Perspective on Taiwan
