Hidden Gems: Night Markets Locals Actually Visit

Let’s be honest: Shilin Night Market is huge, and Raohe is beautifully lit, but both are often overcrowded with tourists. If you want to experience Taipei’s street food culture like a local (and often pay lower, local prices), you need to venture a little off the beaten path.

Here are three night markets that might not be in every guidebook, but are absolute legends among Taipei residents.

1. Nanjichang Night Market (南機場夜市)

"The Foodie’s Paradise: Where the locals go for Michelin Bib Gourmand."

This market is famous for one thing: having an incredibly high density of delicious food. Because there is no MRT station right next to it, it sees fewer tourists, keeping the vibe authentic and the prices reasonable.

Unlike Shilin, you won’t find many games or clothes here. This place is purely for eating.

[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "strong", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop Shan-Nei Chicken Rice (山內雞肉), Steamed Stinky Tofu (臭老闆現蒸臭豆腐), and the legendary braised foods.

[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "strong", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop It’s a 15-minute walk from MRT Xiaonanmen Station (Green Line), or a quick Uber ride from Ximen.

2. Jingmei Night Market (景美夜市)

Located in the southern part of Taipei near Shih Hsin University, Jingmei is a favorite among students. This means huge portions and very friendly prices.

The vibe here is incredibly relaxed. Locals come here in their slippers to grab dinner after work. It functions as a wet market during the day, so the ingredients are always fresh.

[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "strong", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop Pan-fried soup dumplings, BBQ sticky rice cakes, and generic Taiwanese steak (don’t knock it til you try it!).

[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "strong", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop Take the MRT Green Line to Jingmei Station. Exit 1 or 2 will drop you right into the action.

3. Yansan Night Market (延三夜市)

If you want to taste what Taipei was like 40 years ago, go to Yansan. Located in the older Datong district, the stalls here are often run by second or third-generation owners.

There are no flashing neon lights here, just rows of serious cooks making serious food on the roadside.

[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "strong", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop Savory Cabbage Rice (高麗菜飯), Mochi Ice (麻糬冰), and Fresh Fish Soup.

[@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "strong", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop Take the MRT Orange Line to Daqiaotou Station.

How to Order Like a Pro

Don’t be shy! Even if the menu is only in Chinese, pointing and smiling works wonders. Most vendors are very friendly to foreigners.

However, if you want a deeper dive into the history and hidden stories of these markets, having a local guide can transform your experience.