Taichung’s vibrant food scene blends traditional flavors with modern innovation. From bustling night markets to upscale restaurants and creative dining spaces, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Whether you’re searching for affordable eats or stylish restaurants, this guide introduces must-visit Taichung restaurants—from yakiniku to fusion cuisine—all of which make the list of Taichung’s best food spots.
Departure Café: A Midnight Café in a Renovated Vintage House
Ambiance & Features
Located near Audit Village, Departure Café is a retro-style café set in a renovated old home.
Known for its seasonal strawberry desserts and handmade mille-feuille pastries, it embodies the vibe of a refined Taichung café.
Why Visit
• Open until midnight – perfect for post-dinner relaxation
• Reservation-only seating, cozy ambiance, and Instagram-worthy decor
Hours & Dining Info
Hours: Daily 12:00–00:00
Reservation: Recommended, especially on weekends & holidays
📍 Address: No. 67, Shengping St., West Dist., Taichung City
Lunjia Café: Cozy Brunch with Cats in a Vintage House
Ambiance & Features
Located on Zhongshan Road Section 2 in Taiping District, Lunjia Café is a pet-friendly spot with three adorable cats.
The second-floor seating and handmade furniture provide a relaxing brunch setting with stylish presentation.
Why Visit
• Vintage home setting with quality décor
• Elegant brunch platters with drinks and desserts
• Pet-friendly, with cats adding charm to the experience
Hours & Dining Info
Hours: 09:00–16:30 (Closed Mon & Tue)
Minimum order: 1 item per person; 90-minute limit
📍 Address: No. 138, Sec. 2, Zhongshan Rd., Taiping Dist., Taichung
WOW COOL Yakiniku: Japanese Grill in a Vintage Home with Art Installations
Ambiance & Features
Located in Central District, WOW COOL Yakiniku is housed in a renovated building with a vintage Japanese aesthetic.
A perfect blend of fine dining and ambiance.
Why Visit
• Elegant design with generous portions—great for gatherings
• Close to Taichung Station
• High-quality ingredients, highly rated in Taichung food rankings
Hours & Dining Info
Hours: Daily 17:00–22:00
Reservation: Recommended
📍 Address: No. 16, Minquan Rd., Central Dist., Taichung
Offer oh: Fusion Dishes with a Trendy Twist
Ambiance & Features
Tucked in Zhongcheng Street near SOGO and Calligraphy Greenway, this restaurant combines retro vibes with modern style.
Its signature flower buns and fusion cuisine are local favorites.
Why Visit
• Creative menu that sparks conversation
• Spacious for group dining
• Excellent value for money—top CP-rated spot
Hours & Dining Info
Hours: Daily 11:00–21:00
Reservation: Recommended
📍 Address: No. 91, Zhongcheng St., West Dist., Taichung
Shan He Folk Cuisine: Michelin-Recommended Taiwanese Fine Dining
Ambiance & Features
Known for its locally sourced ingredients and creative twists on classic Taiwanese dishes, Shan He has received multiple Michelin Guide recommendations.
Why Visit
• Innovative presentation of traditional home-style dishes
• Elegant setting and hearty portions
• Ideal for family gatherings or entertaining guests
Hours & Dining Info
Hours: 11:30–14:30 / 17:30–21:00 daily
Reservation: Recommended
📍 Main Branch: No. 21, Cunzong St., West Dist.
📍 City Hall Branch: 7F, No. 480, Shizheng Rd., Xitun Dist.
Zhu Rou Rong: Bib Gourmand-Approved Taiwanese Cuisine
Ambiance & Features
Hidden in an old factory area in East District, this small restaurant combines Taiwanese, Japanese, and Western techniques for refined yet hearty meals.
Why Visit
• Creative, warm Taiwanese fare
• Must-tries: Sakura Shrimp Braised Pork Rice, Red Wine Beef
• Great for families and friends
Hours & Dining Info
Hours: 11:00–14:00 / 17:30–21:00 daily
Reservation: Recommended
Minimum spend: NT$400/person, cash only
📍 Address: No. 10-2, Ln. 17, Sec. 4, Fuxing Rd., East Dist., Taichung
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions About Taichung Restaurants
Taichung Restaurants Q1: Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes—especially for popular spots like Departure Café, WOW COOL, Shan He, and Zhu Rou Rong.
Taichung Restaurants Q2: Are there time limits for dining?
Many places have limits (90–120 mins). For example, Lunjia Café limits to 90 mins; Shan He adjusts based on guest flow.
Taichung Restaurants Q3: What are the minimum charges?
• Lunjia Café: 1 order per person
• Zhu Rou Rong: NT$400 minimum, cash only
Other restaurants vary based on set menu prices.
Taichung Restaurants Q4: Which items are good for takeaway?
• Café items like desserts and brunch are usually available to-go
• Dishes at high-end restaurants are best enjoyed dine-in
Taichung Restaurants Q5: Which restaurants are accessible or near transport?
Most are near main roads or stations. WOW COOL is near the station; Offer oh is close to Calligraphy Greenway.
Taichung Restaurants Q6: Do any restaurants allow pets?
Only pet-friendly cafes like Lunjia Café do—and feeding the animals is not allowed.
Learn Chinese Through Food: Oyang Language Center
Why just eat when you can learn too? Oyang Language Center offers immersive Chinese + Lifestyle courses where students visit Taichung restaurants and practice ordering, describing flavors, and chatting in Mandarin.
Course Highlights
- Small group classes focusing on speaking
- Restaurant visits to apply real-life Mandarin skills
- Cultural modules: night markets, food DIY, teahouse visits
- Short-term or long-term programs available
Enjoy top food from Taichung while learning useful Mandarin—it’s effective and immersive!
