Tzu Chi Hotel

For 20+ years, locals have been swooning over the pork knuckle rice here – ham hock braised in a marinade with spices and Chinese herbs, served with a glistening amber sauce; the peppery aftertaste is spellbinding. Steamed rice from Hualian and a julienne of crispy bamboo shoots cut through the richness. Marine fish cooked to order are also a firm favourite. Noodle lovers can't get enough of the umami-laden pork bone broth lifted by veggie sweetness.

In 1993, this dumpling shop began life as a street stall in a local market. Now it has become a household name throughout south Taiwan. Apart from steamed pork and beef dumplings, the variety filled with assorted vegetables also stands out – its plump, full skin enrobes a filling of shredded wood ear fungus, green bok choy, glass noodles and dried tofu. Pancake rolls that are crispy and nicely browned are also popular.

This simple shop is always jam-packed with customers. Its signature is undoubtedly the eponymous duck rice – smoked duck pieces on steamed rice drizzled with a secret sauce. Another speciality, hand-sliced duck leg rice, is available in limited quantity, boasting smoky and juicy flesh. And of course, the duck also goes well with the array of noodles on offer. Try assorted duck offal soup, and side dishes made with bean sprouts.

Converted from Taipower Company former staff housing, this tiny gem serves five Chinese double-boiled soups that come with a side, plus your choice of rice or noodles. Spicy food lovers shouldn't miss the oyster chicken soup with chillies – vegetables nicely complement the umami of free-range chicken legs and oysters from Yunlin . For staples, try Koshihikari rice from Japan mixed with Tainan No. 16 and topped with nori pork floss.

After selling sticky rice in a market for 10-plus years, the owner couple opened this shop in 2021. Tables are set on a plant-adorned porch with tiled floor and walls; the cartoon duck and handwritten logo create a strong visual identity. The signature boneless duck sticky rice entices with its sesame oil and ginger aromas, while taro pork rib soup boasts starchy tuber infused with meaty flavours. Honey black tea from Taitung makes the perfect pairing.

As opposed to typical braised pork rice shops that can sometimes feel a little dated, this one boasts a bright, simple interior with full-length windows. The cartoon pig logo also makes it appealing to a younger audience. Despite its fresh look, the menu focusses on good old Taiwanese favourites. Braised pork rice is a must, and you have the option to top it with an over-easy egg. Do also order sides like braised cabbage, and pork tendon.

Since 2000, this shop has been famous for its oversize steamed bun sandwiches packed with tasty fillings. The must-try is definitely the assorted gua bao stuffed with crisp pickled cabbage, half-fatty soy-braised pork, ground peanut sugar, and the secret red chilli sauce, all working miraculously together. There is even a plant-based version for vegan customers. Healthy drinks such as Job's Tears milk or almond soy milk are also on hand to quench your thirst.