Heartwarming Recommendations for Sesame Oil Dishes｜2025 Sesame Oil Culinary Competition Traditional Category Classic Restaurants

Sesame oil dishes hold a special place in Taiwanese culinary traditions, rich with history and flavor. For the 2025 Sesame Oil Culinary Competition, ten outstanding restaurants have been handpicked to showcase their mastery in the traditional category. From the bustling streets of Taipei to the vibrant food scene of Kaohsiung, this lineup features everything from Michelin-starred gems and luxurious five-star hotels to beloved local spots celebrated for their distinctive takes. Each venue brings its own unique flair to sesame oil cuisine. Come along with Kinnso as we explore the heartfelt stories and expert craftsmanship behind these unforgettable dishes!

When you think of classic Taiwanese ingredients, sesame oil instantly stands out as a beloved staple cherished by locals. Extracted from fragrant black sesame seeds, this golden elixir holds a special place in Taiwan’s food culture. More than just a cooking ingredient, sesame oil is a wintertime comfort and a nostalgic taste that evokes warm memories of home. Its rich, nutty aroma is woven into the fabric of Taiwanese life, making it one of the most iconic traditional flavors you simply have to experience.

If you’re craving a taste of genuine homestyle cooking, the Family Banquet Chinese Restaurant at Taipei Kaida Hotel is the place to be. This spot is all about bringing the comforting flavors of "home" right to your table. They pride themselves on using the freshest local ingredients, blending culinary traditions from Taiwan, Guangdong, and Shanghai to craft dishes that are both unique and delicious. Every plate is thoughtfully prepared, making sure you get a meal that’s as fresh and carefully cooked as if it were made in your own kitchen.

Imagine savoring tender white-cut chicken bathed in a rich broth that’s been lovingly simmered for eight hours, all brought together by the legendary 'Xincheng Black Sesame Oil' brand. What truly sets this dish apart is the natural sweetness from fresh sugarcane and a blend of aromatic herbs, which lift the classic sesame oil chicken to new heights—light, refreshing, and never greasy. Each bite bursts with juicy goodness, perfectly balanced by the warm, fragrant medicinal herbs and the deep, nutty aroma of sesame oil. This is, without a doubt, the ultimate Taiwanese sesame oil chicken soup experience!

If you’re on the hunt for an unforgettable taste of Taiwan, Shanhai Lou is a must-visit. This gem has proudly held a Michelin star for seven years running and has also earned the Michelin Green Star for five years—a true testament to its dedication to sustainability and quality. What sets Shanhai Lou apart is its passion for preserving traditional Taiwanese cooking techniques, passed down from master chefs. Every dish here is more than just food; it’s a story that connects generations. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, dining here offers a genuine taste of Taiwan’s rich culinary heritage, all while showcasing Taiwanese cuisine on the world stage.

We start with whole, free-range ancient chickens to create a deeply flavorful broth that forms the heart of this dish. To add a unique twist, we use traditional roasted sesame seeds, ground fresh to release a rich, aromatic black sesame oil. Then comes the organic glutinous rice from Hualien, paired with slices of aged ginger and shiitake mushrooms. These ingredients are gently simmered over low heat before being steamed, allowing the broth’s essence to fully infuse the rice’s fragrant aroma. The cooking journey begins by sautéing ginger slices and shiitake mushrooms in that fragrant black sesame oil until they release their inviting scent. Next, we stir-fry the chicken and morels until they turn a beautiful golden brown, seasoning with rice wine, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar to bring all the flavors together. Finally, everything is combined with the glutinous rice and steamed to perfection, resulting in tender chicken and plump, chewy rice that’s bursting with rich, layered flavors.

Step into "The Guest House" at the Taipei Sheraton Hotel, where traditional Chinese hospitality meets a masterful fusion of flavors. Here, the bold, spicy notes of Sichuan cuisine are perfectly balanced with the refined, delicate techniques of Huaiyang cooking, resulting in dishes that are both authentic and innovative. The restaurant’s design draws inspiration from the serene Jiangnan water towns, with mirrored hallways, shimmering reflections on water, and gently flowing curtains that evoke a modern vintage charm. This thoughtful blend of cultural heritage and warm hospitality creates a dining atmosphere that feels like a welcoming home, embodying the grace and elegance of Eastern tradition.

Imagine this: premium Japanese Koshihikari rice gently soaked in fragrant rice wine, then lovingly sautéed in rich black sesame oil with a hint of fresh ginger. The magic begins as the iron pot heats up, releasing the aroma of rice wine, before tender chicken joins the party along with a splash more rice wine. Next comes the star—Koshihikari rice—stir-fried to perfection. The dish then simmers slowly for thirty minutes, allowing the rice to develop a beautiful, translucent sheen. Each grain soaks up the flavorful broth, while the harmonious blend of sesame oil and rice wine delivers a warm, nostalgic taste that lingers delightfully on your palate. A true comfort food experience you won’t forget!

Since opening its doors in 2017, Yuzhuan Delicacies Anhe Branch has proudly continued the tradition started by its original Nantun location, which first welcomed diners back in 2008. This spot is a go-to for those craving tasty Northern-style noodles and Hu-Cai dishes—think Shanghai and Sichuan flavors—without breaking the bank. Their standout soup dumplings and succulent meat noodles have earned rave reviews, thanks to their commitment to using authentic, high-quality ingredients. By artfully blending different culinary traditions, Yuzhuan Delicacies offers a flavorful, wholesome dining experience that’s both satisfying and affordable for everyone.

Imagine tender duck from Changhua, carefully chosen for its lean quality and packed with nutrients. This duck undergoes a special process—electrical slaughtering and freezing—to trim away excess fat while locking in that pure, mouthwatering meaty aroma. The cooking journey starts by awakening the scent of old ginger, gently infused into cold-pressed black sesame oil. Next, the duck is slowly braised in a rich black bean soy sauce, allowing the flavors to deepen and mingle. The result? A luscious sauce that perfectly complements the naturally sweet duck meat, creating a broth rich with duck essence. Each bite bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors, marrying traditional tastes with a modern, health-conscious twist. It’s a dish that truly celebrates the best of both worlds!

Perched on the 9th floor of Kaohsiung’s Han-Lai Hotel, Fuyuan Taiwanese Seafood Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Taiwanese flavors paired with the freshest seasonal seafood. Every day, the kitchen sources its seafood straight from the nearby fishing port, ensuring dishes packed with freshness. The chef’s standout creations, like the Spicy Bass Stir-Fried Noodles and the tangy Vinegar Shrimp, have won over diners time and again. Perfect no matter the season, these dishes capture the wholesome, vibrant spirit of Taiwanese cooking.

Discover a fresh twist on the beloved classic, Three-Cup Chicken! It all starts with the sizzling scent of ginger and garlic gently fried in fragrant sesame oil. Then, tender free-range chicken thighs hit the pan, releasing a mouthwatering aroma that’s hard to resist. The magic continues as Kaohsiung’s famous Jiaxian black plums are slowly simmered in, soaking up all those rich flavors. Just before serving, a sprinkle of chopped scallions and a dash of chili add the perfect kick. The result? A warm, nutty sesame aroma beautifully blended with the bright, sweet-and-sour tang of black plums. The savory broth finishes with a subtle sweetness, delivering a comforting taste that truly captures the heart of traditional Taiwanese cooking!

For over three decades, Qinqing International Banquet Catering Group has been a standout name in the banquet scene, blending culinary traditions from across regions with a modern twist. Their unique approach fuses the heart and soul of classic Chinese cooking with global influences, creating a fresh and inventive take on Taiwanese cuisine. This exciting blend not only reignites a passion for Taiwanese flavors among younger food lovers but also proudly puts Taiwan’s culinary heritage on the world map. Step inside, and you’ll find an atmosphere buzzing with international vibes, while every dish stays true to the rich, authentic tastes of Taiwan.

Imagine the rich aroma of authentic black sesame oil mingling with the zing of fresh ginger, all brought to life by the freshest shrimp from Penglai Island. This isn’t just any vermicelli dish—it’s Kinmen vermicelli cooked to perfection, soaking up every bit of the flavorful broth. The result? A silky-smooth texture with a gentle whisper of wine that teases your senses. The ginger slices add a cozy, warming spice that pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s tender sweetness. This dish is a delightful symphony of flavors and scents, nourishing without heaviness, and perfectly capturing the essence of Taiwanese seafood tradition combined with wholesome, healthful cooking.

If you find yourself in Sanxia, New Taipei City, don’t miss out on Chu Xin Chu Shi—a spot that’s been delighting diners with top-notch Chinese cuisine for almost ten years. This charming restaurant takes pride in using fresh, local ingredients, skillfully blending the rich flavors of Shanghai with the unique tastes of New Taipei. The talented chefs carefully handpick the best seasonal produce and tweak their menu to match, ensuring every dish feels fresh and authentic. Step inside, and you’ll be welcomed by a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying the comforting, familiar flavors of home-style Chinese cooking.

Get ready to treat your taste buds to a truly luxurious culinary adventure that masterfully blends the best of land and sea! This standout dish features tender abalone and succulent black pork neck, all brought to life with the rich aroma of Yunlin black sesame oil, gently stir-fried over low heat. The pork is carefully soaked in a flavorful broth, locking in every bit of freshness and depth. Meanwhile, the scallops receive special attention with a two-step cooking process—soft boiling for tenderness, then frying for that perfect crispy edge. The glutinous rice is stir-fried to perfection, elevating the classic oil rice technique. To finish, the ingredients are sealed with high-temperature frying to keep the meat’s juices intact, then steamed to meld all the flavors beautifully. This traditional sesame oil dish has been reinvented into an opulent feast, offering a sensational fusion of tastes that’s sure to impress!

If you’re craving a taste of Taiwan that feels both traditional and fresh, Shànxīn is the spot to visit. This passionate team set out to craft more than just a meal—they want every visit to feel like stepping into a beautiful moment in time. Rooted deeply in the warmth and hospitality of classic Taiwanese cooking, Shànxīn brings a modern twist by blending “5 flavors × 22 ratios” — a clever way to balance tastes using innovative techniques alongside local ingredients. Their goal? To share the true, authentic flavors of Taiwan with food lovers everywhere.

Once the glutinous rice is steamed to tender perfection, it’s lovingly combined with aromatic ingredients like shallots, dried shrimp, and shredded mushrooms, filling the air with an irresistible fragrance. The star of the dish is the Yilan cherry duck, stir-fried in fragrant sesame oil and ginger until it’s crispy and bursting with flavor. This succulent duck is then layered atop the rice mixture before everything is steamed together to achieve a harmonious blend of tastes. A treasured recipe handed down by master chefs, every bite offers a comforting mix of nutty sesame oil and the chewy softness of the rice cake, evoking nostalgic warmth and heartfelt memories.

If you’re looking for a dining spot that blends style with substance, Lixiang Garden at Kaohsiung’s Fuhua Hotel should be on your radar. During the week, guests rave about the fresh and vibrant salad bar paired with beautifully crafted main dishes. Come the weekend, it transforms into a lively all-you-can-eat buffet that keeps everyone coming back for more. The restaurant’s spacious layout, complete with soaring ceilings and plenty of natural light, sets a relaxed yet refined mood. Step outside into the courtyard garden, where art installations play with the sunlight throughout the day, adding a unique touch to your meal. And with a talented five-star chef team at the helm, every dish promises a delightful and innovative culinary experience.

Imagine biting into a century-old Tainan handmade pancake, its outer layer perfectly pan-fried in low-temperature sesame oil to achieve a delightful crispness outside while staying tender within. Nestled at the center are fresh eggs, aromatic ginger slices, and sweet dried longan, cooked just right so the egg yolk remains half-runny, releasing an irresistible fragrance. The silky egg blend, combined with crisp, fresh lettuce, creates a refreshing contrast that elevates the dish. This culinary masterpiece beautifully balances tradition with innovation, offering layers of flavor that surprise and delight with every bite!

Step into Tang Yuan Chinese Restaurant at the Far Eastern Hotel, where Chef Cai Kuncheng brings a fresh twist to beloved Chinese classics. With a keen eye for seasonal ingredients, he handpicks organic vegetables and the freshest seafood straight from Hualien, ensuring every dish bursts with flavor. Here, the vibrant influences of Sichuan, Cantonese, and Taiwanese cuisines come together in perfect harmony, reflecting the chef’s deep respect for quality and craftsmanship. More than just a meal, dining at Tang Yuan is a heartfelt journey into Taiwan’s rich culinary heritage, promising a warm and memorable experience.

Imagine tender Shoufeng free-range chicken thighs paired with the rich, plump Hualien glutinous rice, all gently steamed with the warm, comforting scent of ginger. Each bite bursts with the fragrant goodness of Taiwanese sesame oil, perfectly sautéed to bring out a delightful sticky rice cake texture. This dish is a beautiful blend of top-notch local ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques, letting you enjoy the satisfying chew of the rice alongside the springy tenderness of the chicken. It’s truly a delicious celebration of classic Taiwanese flavors that you won’t want to miss!

Feeling hungry after checking out these 10 standout spots serving up sesame oil dishes? From the bustling streets of Taipei to the vibrant city of Kaohsiung, and all the way to the scenic beauty of Hualien, each restaurant offers its own special take on the rich, comforting flavors of traditional sesame oil cuisine.
Whether you’re craving the classic warmth of sesame oil chicken soup or looking to sample creative twists on this beloved ingredient, these eateries promise to delight your palate. Sesame oil dishes in Taiwan go beyond just food—they’re a heartfelt expression of family love and care. So, on your next trip to Taiwan, make sure to visit these gems to taste the most authentic sesame oil flavors and soak in the unique culinary culture that makes Taiwan so special!

Want the full list and more details? Dive into the 【2025 Sesame Oil Culinary Contest】 e-book here: https://www.tw-cuisine.tw/2025sesameoil/