Courtesy of Tutu Foodaholic
Thanks to Michelin guides and culinary competition shows, many food lovers travel great distances just to taste acclaimed dishes after new rankings are announced. The 500 Bowls Award, hosted by United Daily News, highlights beloved street foods from a local perspective. And of course, Hualien has plenty of unforgettable flavors waiting for visitors to explore.
A Scallion Pancake with a Savory, Crispy Crust｜Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake
When it comes to Hualien’s famous fried egg scallion pancakes, most foodies already have a few must-visit spots in mind. Among them, Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake is often mentioned as a top local favorite. Located near the Mingli Road & Datong Street intersection, the stall has no flashy signs, but its Tiffany-green awning is a recognizable landmark.
Most places fry the pancake with the egg together, but here, the pancake and egg are cooked separately and combined at the end. The thinner, more elastic dough retains its chewiness, while the lighter sauce enhances the pancake’s natural aroma. Spice lovers, take note! Their house-made chili sauce packs a punch—even the mild version has a serious kick! If you’re looking for a savory afternoon snack while exploring Hualien City, Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake is sure to satisfy.
INFO｜ Mingli Road Lin’s Scallion Pancake
Address: No. 18-3, Mingli Rd., Hualien City
Telephone: 0965-006589
Business hours: 13:00-18:00
Lavatory: No
Over 50 Years of Tradition｜Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup
Established in 1968, Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup has been serving up comforting bowls for over half a century. Though the building and shopfront bear the marks of time, the flavor has remained almost unchanged—except for slight adjustments to the thickness of the rice noodles over the years. Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup was recognized in the second 500 Bowls Award, drawing even more food lovers to line up for a taste. The dish was originally created by Mama Chuang from Yilan, who adapted her hometown’s recipe into a unique local specialty that has been enjoyed for 56 years—a true taste of nostalgia for Hualien residents.
The rice noodle soup is rich in ingredients, with thick rice noodles that are chewy and complemented by crunchy wood ear mushrooms, carrots, and Kamaboko(cured surimi), which add layers of flavor to the dish. The shop’s special tea-braised eggs are sweet and flavorful, with a texture similar to iron eggs, making them a satisfying accompaniment to the rice noodle soup. Popular items in the shop also include rice balls and rice pudding, but they tend to sell out quickly, so travelers should come early to try them.
INFO｜ Tatung Lanyang Rice Noodle Soup
Address: No. 284, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City
Telephone: 03-8323258
Business hours: 07:00-17:30
Lavatory: No