微风精致酒店南子分店

This no-frills shop near the train station has been renowned for its migao since 1955. Glutinous rice mixed with dried shrimps and shallot is steamed in ceramic ramekins (rather than bamboo tubes). The rice cake is then turned out onto a serving plate, drizzled with braised pork sauce and topped with fish floss and pickled radish. They sometimes sell out early and the shop has irregular days off, so call ahead to avoid disappointment.

Ciaotou was the centre of Taiwan’s sugar production and this 6-decade-old joint fascinates its fans with terrific braised pork rice boasting a savoury-sweet taste. Pork shoulder and belly in a specific ratio are hand-diced and braised till melting before being drizzled over steamed rice. Pork thick soup, and assorted pork offal make perfect companions with the signature rice. Expect to queue any time of the day. It closes on major holidays.

Warm wooden hues, soothing curves and rich textures set the scene. The chef-owner has been in fine dining for over 20 years and his set menu marries his travel experiences with his Taiwanese heritage. Local flavours like dried cauliflower, black garlic and dried radish are cleverly woven into his recipes. In winter, line-caught fish from his home county Penghu are a nod to his childhood. Some wines can be ordered by the half glass.

Having honed his skills in some famous kitchens in Taiwan, Chef Kang, a Taipei native, chose to start his first venture in Kaohsiung. With an open kitchen and counter seats, the earth-toned room exudes warmth and understated elegance. The single set menu that is served features local and Japanese produce astutely prepared in Japanese-French style. The menu changes every season but always includes one course inspired by Kaohsiung culture.

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.

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.

Gangshan is famous for its goat and you can’t leave without trying caprine dishes. Before opening Joes in 1955, the founder had long been selling goat in the market. With his connections, Joes always has access to the freshest goats. Signature dishes include Angelica goat hot pot, an herbal tonic with ribs and skin-on cuts. Stir-fried goat with bitter melon, and blanched goat slices with chilli bean sauce are also good. Bookings aren’t accepted.