Courtesy of Yoti Hsueh (Yung-Ting Hsueh) & tutufoodaholic
The renowned British lifestyle magazine “Tatler” recently named Hualien one of Asia’s 8 most underrated foodie cities, praising its culinary scene influenced by indigenous and Hakka cultures. Highlights include wild boar sausage, flavor-packed seafood fried rice, Hualien beef noodles, and local craft beers, all drawing the attention of food lovers worldwide.
When Mullet Roe Meets Fried Rice｜Fu’s Handmade Wontons
Fu’s Handmade Wontons has been serving the community for some time. Known for its wontons and affordable fried rice dishes, it offers options from classic egg fried rice to Yangzhou fried rice and fried rice with sakura shrimp & eggs. The standout, however, is the mullet roe fried rice, where the aroma of egg and the savory depth of mullet roe create a rich, layered flavor. A subtle briny essence blossoms on the palate, making each bite so irresistible you just can’t stop.
Another local favorite is the handmade wontons. These thin skins contain savory, juicy fillings, and the broth is enhanced with shallots, giving it a sweet, clean flavor. The shop also offers spicy red oil wontons, which are tangy and appetite-whetting—a must-try for regulars.
INFO｜Fu’s Handmade Wontons
Address: No. 256, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City
Telephone: 0981-123475
Business hours: 11:30-14:00、17:00-20:30（Closed every Friday）
Lavatory: No
Timeless Flavors Rooted in Craftsmanship｜Jin Ming Noodle House
Located on Nanjing Street, Jin Ming Noodle House opened in October last year. It specializes in beef noodles and herbal chicken soup noodles, and has even begun offering hot pots made from these beloved broths. The chef apprenticed under Chef Ming, a renowned culinary figure in Hualien, and named the restaurant “Jin Ming” in honor of his mentor.
Their braised beef noodles feature a bold, slightly spicy broth with springy noodles that soak up the flavor well. The long strips of beef are tender, juicy, and satisfyingly meaty. Meanwhile, the herbal chicken soup noodles use sliced boneless chicken thighs, served in a generous and hearty bowl. The broth is sweet and herbal without being bitter. Besides that, you absolutely can’t miss the freshly made daily side dishes - green beans with sausage and chilled tofu skin with wood ear mushrooms - both bursting with flavor and sure to whet your appetite. They’re waiting for you to come and enjoy!
INFO｜Jin Ming Noodle House
Address: 1F, No. 272, Nanjing St., Hualien City
Telephone: 0981-123475
Business hours: 11:30-14:00、17:00-20:00（Closed every Tuesday）
Lavatory: Yes
Bittersweet Pomelo - Organic Wheat Ale｜Dongfong Organic Farm
Located along County Highway No. 193 in Yuli, Dongfong Organic Farm has made a name for itself in recent years through its dedication to organic farming. To promote the philosophy of sustainable coexistence with nature and organic farming, Dongfong Organic Farm has developed an educational fish-rice symbiotic environment and offers a range of organic food and farming experiences. These include DIY organic rice pudding, organic tofu-making, and workshops on craft brewing with organic wheat.
Their signature craft beer, “A Brew Most Bittersweet”, is brewed with pomelo, wheat, and hops and undergoes a slow 45-day fermentation. What sets it apart is that the pomelo is brewed with the wheat rather than simply adding juice later. The result is a refreshing beer with a smooth mouthfeel and the natural fragrance of pomelo. The name “A Brew Most Bittersweet” plays on words to reflect the post-Mid-Autumn surplus of pomelos and the challenges of market balance. Travelers curious about Dongfong's organic soy milk, craft beer, or black bean tea don’t have to go all the way to Yuli - they’re also available right in Hualien City.
INFO｜Dongfong Organic Farm (Hualien Store)
Address: No. 96, Zhonghua Rd., Hualien City
Telephone: 03-8330668
Business hours: 11:00-19:00
Lavatory: No
Stop for the Scent｜Makauy Sausage at Jian Qingxiu Temple
Jian Qingxiu Temple in Jian Township is a must-visit attraction for many visitors to Hualien, and right by the temple’s parking lot is an equally unmissable treat—Makauy sausage. This indigenous-flavored sausage is a rare find in the city, and it’s the owner’s warm hospitality and expert grilling that truly take the flavor to the next level.
As the sausage sizzles on the grill, it slowly browns to perfection. You’ll notice generous bits of makauy (mountain pepper) studded throughout. Once cooked, it has a beautiful, even color. The casing is crisp but not dry, and the juicy filling is so hot it might burn your tongue! Its springy texture, balanced fat and lean meat, and the citrusy, peppery aroma of makauy make it utterly unforgettable. Paired with fresh makauy on the side, it delivers a refreshing, whole-body satisfaction. They close once sold out, so don’t come too late if you want a bite!
INFO｜Makauy Sausage at Jian Qingxiu Temple
所在地：Zhongxing Road, Jian Township, Hualien County (beside the parking lot of Telephone: 0918-204666
Business hours: 08:30-16:30（Closed every Monday）
Lavatory: No