New TaipeiEat Recommendations

Liubiju Sandpot Porridge in Banqiao District specializes in Chaozhou-style sandpot congee, celebrated for its premium offerings like hairy crab porridge, abalone porridge, and emperor porridge. The first floor has limited seating, while the second floor is more spacious. A fish tank near the kitchen adds to the fresh seafood atmosphere. Given its stellar reputation, reservations often need to be made a week or more in advance, with callers frequently having to redial. The porridge is rich, hearty, and generously portioned, paired with assorted seafood and shellfish — ideal for family dinners or group gatherings. Phone reservations are accepted though online booking is not available.

Wagyu Shabu Japanese Hot Pot All-You-Can-Eat, Banqiao Culture Branch at No. 280, Sec. 1, Culture Road, 2F, Banqiao District, is a premium wagyu-focused buffet hot pot restaurant. It serves Australian A5 wagyu, Angus beef, and other premium cuts, alongside creative dishes like seared wagyu sushi and wagyu black curry — three wagyu experiences in one meal. The self-service bar offers over 70 kinds of vegetables, seafood, and sauces with fresh ingredients and abundant choices at excellent value. A 3-minute walk from MRT Xinpu Station Exit 2, with parking also available. Average spending is about NT$1,920, suitable for gatherings, families, and friend dinners.

Handsome Goose Meat Shop at No. 12, Lane 76, Fuhe Road, Yonghe District hides inside the Zhulin Road market alleys and is a beloved local goose eatery. Signature dishes include minced goose over rice, smoked goose legs, and goose intestine soup, with a limited daily portion of free goose broth. The tender, generously portioned meat draws a loyal following of gourmands and tourists, often resulting in queues. Arrive late and you might miss the best dishes. The no-frills setting is perfect for a quick taste of authentic goose.

Xiao Er Braised Pork Rice near Datong North Road in Sanchong District is a beloved affordable braised pork rice shop that regularly draws queues. The signature glossy, melt-in-your-mouth braised pork over rice is paired with springy shrimp soup and a variety of sides including braised cabbage, fried tofu, and bamboo shoots for a complete street-food experience. Open 11:00-21:30, a single bowl costs just NT$30, with a large upgrade only NT$5 more. Recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand with a 4.1-star rating, it's a Sanchong must-visit for authentic local flavor at unbeatable prices.

Shititian Japanese Soufflé Specialty Shop at No. 2, Alley 10, Lane 202, Minquan Road, Banqiao District is a wallet-friendly dessert café specializing in Japanese-style soufflé pancakes. Flavors include taro, matcha, crème brûlée, roasted flour tea, and tiramisu, starting at NT$99 with an average spend of about NT$270. The soufflés are cloud-soft and jiggly, with sauces cascading like a waterfall, winning rave reviews from customers. A short walk from Banqiao Station, phone reservations (02-2271-1203) are recommended to avoid queuing.

Qiqi Stone Hot Pot at No. 77, Chang'an Street, Luzhou District is an all-you-can-eat stone pot restaurant. Diners enjoy over 20 types of hot pot ingredients, seven kinds of freshly sliced meats (beef, pork, lamb, chicken, etc.), plus vegetables, noodles, gyudon rice, a drinks bar, and ice cream — all unlimited. Prices start at NT$369, with weekday lunches and pre-4 PM visits offering the best value; premium seafood and wagyu packages are available at higher tiers. Seating is limited, so online reservations are recommended. QR code ordering is available for convenience.