Jensen Huang’s Taipei Food Journey: 10 Essential Eats and Night Markets to Explore in 2025

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Published at 09/24/2025

Ever wondered what dishes catch the eye—and palate—of Jensen Huang, the AI visionary, when he’s back in his hometown of Taipei? This isn’t just a rundown of his favorite spots; it’s your insider’s guide to experiencing the true heart of Taipei’s food scene. From tucked-away private kitchens to the lively buzz of night markets, come along and savor the authentic, unforgettable flavors that define this vibrant city through the eyes of its most celebrated food lover!

Top Eats in Taipei: Dive into the AI Godfather’s Private Kitchen and Essential Taiwanese Flavors

Whether you’re after indulgent meals fit for tech titans or cozy, homemade dishes that feel like a warm hug, Huang Renxun’s curated list of restaurants perfectly captures Taipei’s vibrant food scene. These spots don’t just satisfy your taste buds—they offer a genuine taste of local culture and heartfelt hospitality. If you’re planning a trip to Taipei in 2025, make sure these gems are on your must-try list.

Zou Ji Eatery: Taipei’s Hidden Treasure for Authentic Home-Cooked Flavors

If you’re dreaming of tasting Taipei’s most elusive home-style dishes, look no further than Zou Ji Eatery—a place so popular that booking a table means planning more than a year ahead. Don’t expect fancy interiors here; the charm lies in its simplicity, with just two round tables creating an intimate dining experience. The magic happens in the kitchen, where owner Zhou Xiaoqin crafts every dish with masterful skill. What started as a humble spot serving snacks and noodles has evolved into a coveted destination for politicians and business leaders eager to savor authentic Jiangsu and Zhejiang flavors. Highlights like the crispy, aromatic chive spring rolls and the rich, silky crab roe noodles turn straightforward ingredients into unforgettable indulgences.

Step Back in Time at Brick Oven Nostalgic Restaurant: Experience the Heart of Traditional Taiwanese Banquet Cuisine

Walk through the doors of Brick Oven Nostalgic Restaurant, and you’re instantly whisked away to Taiwan’s vibrant 1950s and 60s. The walls tell stories with images of the beloved Datong baby, the classic Heisong iron sign, and vintage movie posters that evoke a bygone era. The atmosphere buzzes with warmth and nostalgia, while the mouthwatering scents remind you of those joyful gatherings when Huang Renxun would host his team. Don’t miss the tender white-cut chicken with its silky skin, the hearty taro rice noodle soup simmering with rich flavors, and the glossy, aromatic braised pork that tastes just like a comforting home-cooked meal—each dish a delicious trip down memory lane.

Hua Niang Bistro: The Wok-Sizzled Gem Even AI Godfather Can’t Get Enough Of

Ever since it opened its doors, Hua Niang Bistro has been turning heads—especially with multiple visits from none other than Jensen Huang. What’s the secret? That irresistible wok-fired aroma that fills the air and beckons you in. This cozy spot specializes in comforting home-style dishes from Sichuan, Shanghai, and Taiwan, but the real star you can’t miss is the “Fly Head,” a personal favorite of the Godfather himself. Imagine the crisp bite of chive flowers mingling with savory minced pork and the deep, sweet punch of fermented black beans, all balanced with just the right kick of spice. It’s the kind of dish that keeps you coming back for more—seconds, thirds, maybe even fourths. Best of all, the prices won’t break the bank, making Hua Niang Bistro a true Taipei treasure for food lovers on the hunt for authentic flavors without the hefty tag.

December Congee, Tea, and Home-style Dishes: A Cozy Feast Beginning with Clay Pot Congee

If you find yourself in Taichung, don’t miss out on the beloved "December Congee," a place that’s won over food lovers with its authentic Chaozhou-style clay pot congee. Picture a steaming pot filled with tender rice grains swimming in a sweet, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re savoring the indulgent crab leg congee or the sophisticated truffle mushroom congee, each bite feels like a comforting hug. Foodie Huang Jen-hsun and his family once ordered an entire table’s worth of dishes here, and one standout that you simply have to try is the "Crispy Taro Duck." Imagine a crispy taro paste shell giving way to juicy, tender duck meat inside—a perfect harmony of textures and rich flavors that lingers long after the last bite.

Chun Jiu: Discover the Magic Behind the “Fantastic” Golden Chicken Soup

Tucked away in Taipei’s Zhongshan District, Chun Jiu is a hidden gem—a private Taiwanese kitchen without a menu, where every dish feels like a well-kept secret. The star of the show? Their legendary “Golden Chicken Soup.” This isn’t your everyday broth; it’s a labor of love, simmered for a full 15 hours with a whole chicken, fragrant Jinhua ham, and a blend of special ingredients that yield a rich, silky, golden elixir. The soup’s depth and color are so impressive that even tech mogul Jensen Huang was heard praising it as “Fantastic!”—and he didn’t hesitate to take some home for his wife. Visiting Chun Jiu is more than just a meal; it’s an immersive experience that delights both your taste buds and your senses, perfect for anyone craving a refined and unforgettable dining adventure in Taipei.

Vegetarian Tea Restaurant: A Culinary Revelation That Even Meat Lovers Admire in Taipei

Think vegetarian food can’t excite your taste buds? Think again. Nestled in the heart of Taipei, the "Vegetarian Tea Restaurant" has earned the nickname “the Din Tai Fung of vegetarian dining,” and for good reason. This spot brilliantly reinvents classic dim sum and Sichuan dishes into mouthwatering vegetarian creations. Take their "Crispy Ginger Sausage," for example — king oyster mushrooms are masterfully prepared to mimic the satisfying chew of real sausage. Or try the "Sweet and Sour Chicken Cubes," whose tangy glaze and meaty texture have won over even the staunchest carnivores. Each dish here is a testament to how vegetarian cuisine can be both inventive and irresistibly delicious.

Liyuan Soup Dumpling House: Juicy Delights Loved by Office Workers Without Breaking the Bank

If you’re craving soup dumplings that even Huang Renxun raves about, but don’t want to spend a fortune, Liyuan Soup Dumpling House should be at the top of your list. Their xiaolongbao boasts delicate, thin skins wrapped around a generous, juicy filling. One gentle bite releases a burst of fresh, sweet broth that’s simply unforgettable. Beyond the classic original flavor, don’t miss their innovative Basil Oyster Soup Dumpling—a first in Taiwan—that blends the fragrant notes of basil with the natural sweetness of fresh oysters. It’s a unique taste adventure that’s definitely worth making a special trip for.

Discover Taipei’s Night Markets: Irresistible Flavors That Even AI Enthusiasts Crave

If Taipei’s restaurants showcase the city’s polished culinary scene, then its night markets reveal its true heartbeat. Join Huang Renxun as he explores these bustling bazaars, tasting the unforgettable street snacks that have left a lasting impression on him. Dive into Taipei’s nightlife and experience the city’s most authentic and lively flavors firsthand.

Discover Ningxia Night Market: Taipei’s Michelin-Approved Food Haven

If you find yourself wandering through Taipei after sunset, Ningxia Night Market is a must-visit spot, especially for food lovers like Huang Renxun. This lively market buzzes with energy and is packed with stalls that have earned Michelin’s stamp of approval. One standout gem is "Douhua Zhuang," a beloved 60-year-old spot famous for its silky smooth traditional tofu pudding drenched in sweet syrup—a comforting treat that’s stood the test of time. Don’t miss "Zhanji Fruits," either, where you can savor ginger-syrup tomatoes, a nostalgic southern Taiwanese specialty. The clever blend of salty and sweet sauces paired with fresh tomatoes creates a flavor combination that’s both surprising and utterly delicious.

Linjiang Street Night Market (Tonghua Night Market): A Local Favorite for Late-Night Bites

Unlike the crowded night markets filled with tourists, Linjiang Street Night Market offers an authentic slice of local life. Even Huang Renxun has shared his love for the "Apo Fruit Stand" here. This nearly half-century-old stall is famous for its fresh, budget-friendly fruit platters. One standout is their tomato slices topped with a unique ginger soy sauce—a comforting flavor that many Taiwanese have cherished since childhood. For the AI guru, this dish brings back warm memories of home, making it a truly special taste experience.

Roundabout Oyster Omelette: Where Crunch Meets Chew in Perfect Harmony

At the heart of Ningxia Night Market, the “Roundabout Oyster Omelette” stands out as a true culinary gem worth every minute of the wait. With a proud 60-year history and a nod from Michelin, this spot elevates the humble oyster omelette to an art form. The chef expertly fries the batter on a sizzling hot plate, creating edges that are irresistibly crispy—think cookie-like crunch—while the center stays wonderfully chewy. Add in the plump, sweet Dongshi oysters and a mysterious secret sauce, and you’ve got a mouthful bursting with flavor and texture. If you’re exploring Taipei’s night markets, this is one dish you simply can’t miss.

Q1: 清單中的「鄒記食舖」或「春韭」看起來很難訂位，一般旅客有機會吃到嗎？

A1:

的確，像是「鄒記食舖」與「春韭」這類私廚，因為座位稀少且名氣響亮，預約難度非常高，通常需要提前數月甚至一年以上。如果行程緊湊，建議可以先從同樣在名單上，但相對親民的店家入手，例如「花娘小館」、「犁園湯包館」或是「十二月粥品」，同樣能品嚐到教父認證的美味，待未來有充裕時間再挑戰預約困難店。

Q2: 如果預算有限，跟著這份美食地圖該如何選擇？

A2:

這份名單豐儉由人，選擇非常多樣。若預算有限，夜市絕對是首選！可以到寧夏夜市品嚐「圓環邊蚵仔煎」和「豆花莊」，或是在臨江街夜市尋找「阿婆水果攤」。餐廳方面，「花娘小館」和「犁園湯包館」也以高CP值著稱，能讓人在百元區間就享受到令人滿足的美味，非常適合小資族規劃行程。

Q3: 如果只有一天的時間，該如何安排路線才能體驗到最多精華？

A3:

建議可以採取「白天餐廳、晚上夜市」的策略。例如，午餐可選擇交通方便的「犁園湯包館」或「花娘小館」快速品嚐經典菜色。傍晚後直攻寧夏夜市，因為這裡集中了黃仁勳喜愛的「圓環邊蚵仔煎」、「豆花莊」和「詹記水果」，可以在短短一條街上一次收集到多款小吃，效率最高，也能充分感受台北熱鬧的夜生活氣氛。

Q4: 同行的旅伴吃素，這份名單上有適合的選擇嗎？

A4:

絕對有！名單中的「不葷主義茶餐廳」就是專為蔬食者設計的，甚至被譽為「蔬食界的鼎泰豐」。這裡的餐點精緻到連葷食者都讚不絕口，像是糖醋雞丁、薑絲脆腸等都非常推薦。安排行程時將這一站加入，就能讓所有旅伴都盡興而歸。