1. What are some must-try local dishes in Yilan County?
Some must-try local dishes in Yilan County include sticky rice noodles, Luodong pork rice, Yilan spring onion pancakes, and Ali Mountain black tea.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan dining options in Yilan County?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan dining options in Yilan County. Some popular restaurants include Veggie Farm, Dragonfly Farm Cafe, and Zen Love Vegetarian Kitchen. Additionally, many local food markets and night markets offer a variety of plant-based dishes to choose from.
3. What is the most popular night market for trying street food in Yilan County?
The most popular night market for trying street food in Yilan County is the Luodong Night Market.
4. Are there any traditional seafood restaurants in Yilan County?
Yes, there are several traditional seafood restaurants in Yilan County, including Luan Sheng Seafood Restaurant, Ai Lin Seafood Restaurant, and DongShan Seafood. These restaurants offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes that are popular among locals and tourists alike.
5. How is the coffee culture in Yilan County? Any recommended cafes?
The coffee culture in Yilan County is slowly developing, but it is not as prevalent compared to other larger cities in Taiwan. There are a few notable cafes that can be found within the county, such as Kebukes and Wood & Brick Café. However, it is not uncommon for locals and tourists to grab their morning coffee at convenience stores or chain coffee shops instead.
6. Are there any famous local food souvenirs that I can bring back from Yilan County?
Some famous local food souvenirs from Yilan County include rice crackers, pineapple cakes, and dried fruits such as plums and figs. These are popular items that visitors often purchase to bring back home as gifts or to enjoy themselves. Additionally, Yilan County is known for its high-quality seafood, so products such as dried squid and fish floss are also popular choices for souvenirs.
7. Is there a food tour or cooking class available in Yilan County?
Yes, there are various food tours and cooking classes available in Yilan County. You can find information about these tours and classes online or through travel agencies that specialize in this area. Some popular options include the Yilan Food Tour, which takes visitors to local markets and food stalls to sample traditional dishes, as well as hands-on cooking classes at local farms or restaurants.
8. What is the price range for meals at local restaurants in Yilan County?
The price range for meals at local restaurants in Yilan County varies and depends on the specific restaurant. It is recommended to check menu prices or ask the individual restaurant for more information.
9. Can I find international cuisine options in addition to Taiwanese food in Yilan County?
Yes, there are various international cuisine options available in addition to Taiwanese food in Yilan County. These can include Chinese, Japanese, Western, and other Asian cuisines. Many restaurants and cafes in Yilan County offer diverse menus featuring dishes from around the world. Additionally, there are also food festivals and events that showcase international cuisine throughout the year.
10. Are there any famous local fruit farms or markets where I can try fresh produce?
Yes, there are many famous local fruit farms and markets around the world where you can try fresh produce. Some well-known ones include Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington; Union Square Greenmarket in New York City; and La Boqueria Market in Barcelona, Spain. It is always recommended to research and ask locals for recommendations when visiting a new area to find the best spots for fresh produce.
11. Where can I find the best breakfast options in Yilan County?
One can find the best breakfast options in Yilan County by asking locals for recommendations, researching online reviews and ratings, or exploring popular food markets and street vendors.
12. How do I know if a restaurant specializes in traditional Hakka cuisine from this region?
One way to know if a restaurant specializes in traditional Hakka cuisine from this region is to research the restaurant beforehand. Look for information on their website or online reviews that mention their focus on Hakka cuisine from this specific region. Additionally, you can also ask the staff at the restaurant about their menu and ingredients used, as well as any cultural influences on their dishes.
13. Where should I go for a romantic dinner with a beautiful view of nature or the ocean in Yilan County?
Some popular options for a romantic dinner with a beautiful view in Yilan County could be the Wild Coast Restaurant in Toucheng or the Sea View Restaurant at Jiaoxi Hot Springs Park. Both offer stunning views of the ocean and natural surroundings, perfect for a romantic evening. Reservations are recommended for both locations.
14. What are the top-rated restaurants among locals for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries?
Some top-rated restaurants among locals for celebrating special occasions include:
1. The French Laundry (Yountville, California)
2. Alinea (Chicago, Illinois)
3. Eleven Madison Park (New York City, New York)
4. Le Bernardin (New York City, New York)
5. Osteria Francescana (Modena, Italy)
6. El Celler de Can Roca (Girona, Spain)
7. Noma (Copenhagen, Denmark)
8. Attica (Melbourne, Australia)
9. Mirazur (Menton, France)
10.D.O.M. (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
Note: These restaurants are based on the list of World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2019 and may vary depending on location and personal preferences. It is always best to ask for recommendations from locals in the specific area you plan to celebrate a special occasion in order to find the perfect restaurant for your needs and budget.
15. Is it common for restaurants to offer English menus and have English-speaking staff?
Yes, it is common for restaurants in popular tourist areas or in countries where English is widely spoken to offer English menus and have at least one staff member who can speak English. This is to accommodate non-native speakers and make their dining experience more comfortable and seamless.
16. Can you recommend a family-friendly restaurant that offers children’s menu and play areas?
I can recommend XYZ restaurant. They have a designated children’s menu and also have a play area for kids to enjoy while dining.
17. Are there any Michelin-starred or highly recommended fine dining restaurants in Yilan County?
Yes, there are several Michelin-starred and highly recommended fine dining restaurants in Yilan County, Taiwan. Some examples include Kitcho, which boasts three Michelin stars and specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine, and YEN Chinese Restaurant, which has received one Michelin star for its creative Cantonese dishes. Other highly recommended options include Houdini Cafe by The River and Old World New Taste Cuisine.
18. Where can I find authentic Aboriginal cuisine from the indigenous tribes of Taiwan?
There are several restaurants in Taiwan that specialize in authentic Aboriginal cuisine, such as Mayan Yaya’s Table and Aunty Bear’s Kitchen. You can also visit local markets or night markets where indigenous vendors sell their traditional food.
19. Does Yilan County have any unique dining experiences, such as eating on a themed boat or train restaurant?
Yes, Yilan County has several unique dining experiences, including eating on a themed boat or train restaurant. The Su’ao Cold Spring Themed Restaurant allows diners to enjoy a meal while sitting in a train carriage designed to resemble the Japanese colonial era. There is also the Sansing Green Tunnel Themed Restaurant, where diners can experience eating inside an actual train tunnel. Other unique dining experiences in Yilan County include the Dongshan River Floating Restaurant and the Zhuangwei Rice Paddy Restaurant, both of which offer a scenic and immersive dining experience in nature.
20 .Are there any hidden gems or secret spots for trying delicious but lesser-known local dishes?
Yes, there are often hidden gems or secret spots in a city or region where you can find delicious but lesser-known local dishes. These may be smaller, family-owned restaurants or street vendors that are not as well-known to tourists. To discover these hidden gems, it can be helpful to ask locals or do some research online to find highly-rated and authentic eateries that may not be as commonly known. It can also be worthwhile to explore off the beaten path areas rather than sticking to popular tourist hubs.