TainanEat Recommendations

A-Yu Beef Shabu Shabu Kunlun Branch is a longstanding beef hot pot restaurant in Rende District, Tainan, famous for freshly sliced warm-body beef, sweet broth, and self-service braised pork rice. The interior features greenery and art-gallery-style decor, making it a popular photo spot. The restaurant operates on a walk-in basis only—no phone reservations—with wait times around one hour. It is ideal for travelers wanting to experience traditional Tainan-style beef hot pot.

A-Feng Floating Milkfish Thick Soup is a classic snack shop on Bao'an Road in the West Central District of Tainan with over 60 years of history. The fish thick soup features genuine, generous chunks of milkfish in a sweet, rich broth, often described as silky yet springy. Operating hours are extensive—from 7 AM to midnight—so visitors can enjoy this beloved dish at almost any time. With its consistent quality and fish pieces you can really bite into, it is cherished by locals and tourists alike, and has even been served at state banquets. It is a must-eat delicacy when visiting Tainan.

Chen Jia Shantou Yi Noodles is located near the intersection of Gongyuan South Road and Haian Road in Tainan, close to the Tainan Transfer Station for easy access. This 70-year-old establishment is known for handmade fish rolls, dry yi noodles, and satay braised snacks at pocket-change prices. The setting is simple—most seating is on the sidewalk under the arcade, with red plastic chairs where diners can enjoy their meal while watching the street scene. The shop closes at 2:30 PM, so arriving early is advised. The braised snack selection is extensive, ranging from dried tofu and braised eggs to pig ears and duck wings, all paired with house-made satay sauce for a rich, layered flavor. Whether dining in for authentic Shantou dry noodles or taking home frozen noodles, Chen Jia is a must-visit old shop in Tainan.

Fucheng Sao Kao Jia is located at No. 122, Qianfeng Road in the East District of Tainan, near the rear exit of Tainan Train Station. Since its founding in 2008, it has been known for Taiwanese-style stir-fries and charcoal-grilled skewers, featuring fresh seafood and creative dishes such as Taiwan's first grilled red crab, grilled lobster, king crab, and charcoal-grilled red crab with pork fat rice. The semi-open tin-roofed space is equipped with air conditioning and UV-sterilized tableware cabinets, with flexible seating for 4 to 6 people, suitable for group dining. Pricing is based on self-grilling, averaging around NT$400 per person, offering a wide variety of grilled meats, shrimp, fish, and specialty beer chicken, popular with locals and tourists alike.

Hanshin Harbour Restaurant is a high-floor buffet restaurant inside the Hanshin Arena in Kaohsiung, offering seafood, carved steaks, Japanese, European, and other international cuisines alongside city and ocean views. The restaurant is known for fresh seafood, a rich dessert selection, and spacious dining areas, making it a popular choice for group dining, year-end parties, and traveler meals. Although specific pricing and hours are not listed, its high quality and diverse menu have earned it a reputation for excellent value.

Zhulu Charcoal BBQ is a well-established all-you-can-eat yakiniku restaurant in Tainan, featuring a dual charcoal grill and hot pot concept. The menu includes imported American beef, pre-shelled shrimp, Haagen-Dazs ice cream, and a wide array of self-serve dishes. The interior is designed with a martial-arts, cave-dwelling aesthetic, offering a spacious and comfortable dining experience perfect for group gatherings. Pricing is set at NT$629 per adult (plus 10% service charge), with a discounted option at NT$539 plus 10%. Advance reservations are recommended as there is no dedicated parking lot and nearby spaces can be hard to find.