1. What are some popular local dishes that I should try in Keelung?
Some popular local dishes to try in Keelung include seafood hotpot, braised whale meat, fried milkfish, and oyster omelette.
2. Are there any restaurants in Keelung that specialize in seafood?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Keelung that specialize in seafood. Some popular options include Keelung Miaokou Night Market, which has a variety of seafood dishes from different stalls, and Miao Fu Fish Soup, which serves traditional fish soup made with fresh fish from the local market. Other notable seafood restaurants in Keelung include Yeh Seafood Restaurant and PanTai Seafood Restaurant.
3. Is there a night market or street food scene in Keelung?
Yes, there is a night market and street food scene in Keelung. The Keelung Miaokou Night Market is well-known for its wide variety of local snacks and dishes, such as oyster omelettes, fried pork rolls, and shaved ice desserts. Other popular street food areas in Keelung include Anle Market and Zhengbin Fishing Port.
4. Can you recommend any must-try snacks or street foods in the area?
Yes, I can recommend trying local favorites such as pupusas, empanadas, and elotes from food stands or street vendors. Other popular street foods may include baleadas, tacos, and tamales. It’s always a great idea to ask locals for their recommendations as well to discover hidden gems in the area.
5. Are there any vegetarian or vegan dining options available in Keelung?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan dining options available in Keelung. Some popular restaurants include Bliss Kitchen, Veggie One Cafe, and BAO Vegan Fusion Cuisine. There are also many street food stalls that offer vegetarian and vegan options such as noodle dishes and tofu snacks. It is also common for traditional Taiwanese dishes to have vegetarian versions, so make sure to ask if they can accommodate your dietary preferences when dining out in Keelung.
6. What is the price range for meals at average restaurants in Keelung?
The price range for meals at average restaurants in Keelung can vary depending on the type of cuisine and location, but generally it ranges from NT$100-400 per person.
7. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants or upscale dining options in the city?
Yes, there are several Michelin-starred restaurants and upscale dining options in the city. Some notable ones include Restaurant de l’Hôtel de Ville in Crissier, Hof van Cleve in Kruishoutem, and The Jane in Antwerp.
8. Can you suggest a good restaurant for a romantic dinner with ocean views?
Yes, I suggest looking into waterfront restaurants such as the Cliff House in San Francisco or The Beach House in Malibu. Both offer stunning ocean views and a romantic atmosphere perfect for a dinner date.
9. Where can I find traditional Taiwanese breakfast options such as soy milk and fried dough sticks (youtiao) in Keelung?
You can find traditional Taiwanese breakfast options such as soy milk and fried dough sticks (youtiao) in Keelung at local breakfast shops or traditional markets. Some popular places that offer these dishes include Yong Kang Soy Milk, Ren Mi Dou Hua, and Shou Xi Lai Yuan.
10. Do I need to make reservations at popular restaurants in advance, or can I walk-in?
It is best to make reservations at popular restaurants in advance to ensure you have a table available.
11. What is the best area in Keelung to find a variety of different food options?
The best area in Keelung to find a variety of different food options would be the Miaokou Night Market.
12. Are there any specialty markets or stores where I can buy local ingredients or snacks to take home?
Yes, there are usually specialty markets or stores in many cities where you can find local ingredients or snacks to take home. These can include natural food stores, farmer’s markets, and locally-owned shops that specialize in selling products from the surrounding area. It’s worth doing some research or asking locals for recommendations to find the best options for purchasing locally-sourced items.
13.Aside from seafood, what other types of cuisine are popular and readily available in Keelung?
Some popular and readily available cuisines in Keelung include Taiwanese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Western cuisine. They can be found in various restaurants and food stalls throughout the city.
14.Can you recommend any authentic tea houses or coffee shops for a relaxing break during my trip to Keelung?
Yes, I can recommend a few authentic tea houses and coffee shops in Keelung for a relaxing break. Some popular options include:
1. Sen Yuan Tea House: Known for its traditional Taiwanese tea ceremony experience and delicious teas, this tea house is located in the heart of Keelung and offers a serene atmosphere to unwind.
2. Lattea: This charming coffee shop has a cozy, vintage-inspired interior and serves up creative drinks made with freshly brewed coffee or tea.
3. Tengheil Coffee Shop: Located near the famous Miaokou Night Market, this cafe offers gourmet coffee and pastries in a laid-back setting perfect for taking a break from sightseeing.
4. Yueman Bookstore & Cafe: For book lovers, this cafe nestled inside a bookstore is the perfect spot to relax with your favorite read while enjoying some refreshing beverages.
5. Jianzhi Tea House: Set amidst lush greenery, this elegant tea house offers serene views of Keelung’s natural landscape along with an extensive selection of teas to choose from.
I hope these recommendations help you find the perfect spot to relax during your trip to Keelung!
15.Are there any regional specialties that I should look out for when dining out in Keelung?
Yes, there are several regional specialties that you should try when dining out in Keelung. Some popular dishes include braised pork rice, seafood hotpot, fried oysters, and stuffed squid. The city is also known for its fresh seafood, particularly its octopus and squid dishes. Be sure to also try the famous Taiwanese street food such as stinky tofu and tempura.
16.What are the most famous dishes specific to this region of Taiwan, and where can I find them in Keelung?
Some of the most famous dishes specific to Keelung, Taiwan include:
1. Keelung Miaokou Night Market snacks: Located in the center of Keelung City, this market offers a variety of popular snacks like oyster omelettes, braised pork rice, and tempura.
2. Roasted squid: A must-try seafood dish in Keelung, found at many street vendors or seafood restaurants.
3. Handmade fish balls: Another popular snack found at local markets and street vendors.
4. Fish thick soup (Taiwanese style): A creamy and flavorful fish soup served with rice noodles and various seafood toppings.
5. Iron eggs: A specialty snack in Keelung, these are quail or chicken eggs boiled in a secret sauce until they become chewy and savory.
6. Mochi: This Japanese-style dessert is a popular treat in Keelung, especially at the Zi Qiang Night Market where it is made fresh on-site.
7. Wu Lai stinky tofu: This infamous fermented tofu dish can be found at several stalls in Wu Lai Old Street.
8. Traditional shaved ice desserts: These refreshing treats can be found all over Keelung during the hot summer months, with various toppings such as fresh fruit or sweet red bean paste.
9. Fried milkfish (milkfish rice balls): A local specialty that is made by stuffing minced pork into milkfish belly and then steaming it before frying.
10. Big live shrimp sashimi: As one of the top destinations for live seafood in Taiwan, be sure to try this delicacy at any seafood restaurant in Keelung.
All of these dishes can be easily found by exploring the bustling night markets and local eateries within Keelung City.
17.Is it safe to eat street food in Keelung, and what are some precautions I should take?
It is largely considered safe to eat street food in Keelung, however it is always important to take certain precautions. Make sure to choose vendors who have clean and well-maintained carts or stalls, as well as observing the hygiene practices of the vendor. Avoid eating any raw or undercooked foods, stick to cooked items that are served hot. Also, be cautious of environmental factors such as flies and dust which can contaminate food. It may also be beneficial to bring hand sanitizer and use it before eating.
18.Can you recommend any budget-friendly dining options for travelers on a tight budget?
Yes, I would recommend checking out local street food markets or food trucks, as they often offer affordable and delicious meals. Additionally, researching and trying out smaller family-owned restaurants can also be a budget-friendly option. It’s always a good idea to ask locals for recommendations as well. Lastly, consider meal-prepping or packing snacks to save money on dining while traveling.
19.I have allergies/dietary restrictions – will it be difficult to find suitable food options in Keelung?
Yes, it may be difficult to find suitable food options in Keelung if you have allergies or dietary restrictions. However, with proper planning and communication, it is possible to find suitable accommodations that meet your needs. It is recommended to research and contact restaurants or accommodations beforehand to inquire about their menu options and ingredients used. Additionally, bringing some of your own food or snacks may also be helpful.
20.Are there any local food tours or cooking classes I can participate in to learn more about the cuisine and culture of Keelung?
Yes, there are several local food tours and cooking classes available in Keelung that offer opportunities to learn about the cuisine and culture of the city. Some popular ones include the “Keelung Culinary Delights Food Tour” which takes participants to various local restaurants and markets to taste dishes such as oyster vermicelli, braised pork rice, and shaved ice dessert. There is also the “Taiwanese Cooking Experience” where you can learn how to make traditional dishes like stinky tofu and bubble tea from a local chef. These experiences not only provide a chance to taste delicious food, but also learn about the history and influences behind them. Other options include private cooking classes with locals or small group walking tours that focus on street food. It’s recommended to do some research and book in advance to secure a spot in these popular activities.