Sun Moon Lake, nestled in the heart of Taiwan, is not only renowned for its stunning natural beauty but also for its delectable culinary offerings. From local specialties to traditional indigenous flavors, Sun Moon Lake boasts a diverse range of dining experiences that are bound to tantalize your taste buds. Therefore, join us as we explore 27 Sun Moon Lake food vendors, restaurants, tea and café.
Ita Thao Pier
Nestled on the shores of Sun Moon Lake, Ita Thao Pier is not only a cultural hub but also a food lover’s paradise. For instance, The vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood is known for preserving the Thao indigenous traditions and flavors. As we explore the food scene here, you’ll discover how Ita Thao’s authentic dishes showcase a deep-rooted connection to the land and its people, providing a unique and enriching experience for your taste buds.
President Fish Rolls 總統魚酥捲
Source: President Fish Roll Facebook page
The President Fish Roll, also known as “Zongtong Yu Su Juan,” is a unique delicacy found only at Sun Moon Lake. The fish used in this dish is the President Fish, or “Quyao Yu,” known for its sweet and delicate meat. In fact, the name “President Fish” originated from its popularity with Chiang Kai-shek, the former president. At Sun Moon Lake, you can not miss the President Fish Rolls. These rolls are made by hand, with fresh fish paste wrapped in a thin layer of tofu skin and deep-fried. Especially, the crispy tofu skin envelops the fish paste, offering a delightful combination of textures. They are then coated with a special sauce and garnished with cilantro. The result is a mouthwatering treat that’s best enjoyed while taking in the beautiful scenery of Sun Moon Lake.
📍95 Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 12:00 – 18:00
Fan Fan Chicken Wings 飯飯雞翅
Source: 飯飯雞翅 Facebook
Fan Fan Chicken Wings is where culinary magic happens. They remove the bones from chicken wings, so it is possible to stuff them with sticky rice made by the Thao tribe. Moreover, this unique dish undergoes complex processes to create a crispy exterior and tender rice, paired with grilled chicken and a generous helping of spring onions. Finally, a touch of pepper adds a burst of flavor. You won’t find this Sun Moon Lake delicacy anywhere else!
📍 No. 22, Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 10:00 AM until sold out
Nianji Shiitake Mushroom and Cabbage Bun 年記做不復賣香菇高麗菜包
Source: 波波黛莉 POPDAILY
Handmade and generous in size, Nianji’s Shiitake Mushroom and Cabbage Bun is a hidden food at Sun Moon Lake. Priced affordably at 50 NTD, it features a filling of cabbage and shiitake mushrooms, with glass noodles added for a delightful texture. After that, the buns are fried to a golden crisp, creating a satisfying combination of crunchy crust and savory fillings. Just be cautious—it’s piping hot right out of the fryer! Moreover, Nianji’s operates in a self-serve style, where you can add your own sauce and make change yourself.
📍No. 75, Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 10:00 – 17:00 (Open until 18:00 on Sat and Sun, Closed on Wed and Thu)
Dula Bamboo Rice Cakes 杜啦 白鰻棍
Source: 波波黛莉 POPDAILY
While strolling through the old streets, you’ll spot people enjoying Dula Bamboo Rice Cakes, a unique and visually captivating treat. These millet rice cakes are wrapped around reed stalks, resembling eel skewers. “Dula” in Thao means millet cake, and the cakes are crisp on the outside and soft inside. The condensed milk flavor is a crowd favorite, generously drizzled on the cakes.
📍No. 101, Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 11:00 – 19:30 (Closed on Thursdays)
Fan Tea 翻茶
Source: Fan Tea 翻茶 Facebook
Fan Tea stands out with its mascot, a little monkey sipping a drink. They are famous for their Red Jade Tea and Assam Tea, both offering a smooth and delightful taste. Additionally, Fan Tea serves homemade Red Tea Ice Cream, prepared with fresh milk and Assam tea. The ice cream includes Sun Moon Lake Red Tea grounds, creating a natural, aromatic, and sweet delight.
📍 No. 122, Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 09:00–20:30
Koizumi Red Tea Swiss Roll (Gebi Red Tea Cake) 哖記紅茶蛋捲
Source: 哖記紅茶蛋捲
Koizumi’s Red Tea Swiss Roll is a delightful food souvenir from Sun Moon Lake. These rolls are made with the locally produced Red Jade Tea, known for its intense and aromatic flavor. Therefore, as you stroll along the old streets, the scent of freshly baked rolls fills the air. What’s more, you can even watch the rolls being made on-site, assuring their freshness. They come in various flavors, including butterfly pea, thumbprint, red bean, and green tea.
📍 118 Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 09:00 – 19:00 Closed on Wed
Lusihan 麓司岸餐坊
Source: 麓司岸餐坊 Facebook
Lusihan, meaning “New Year” or “Harvest Festival” in Thao, aims to provide visitors with a feast that feels like a grand celebration. Chef Ah-Sheng, a native of the Thao tribe, brings his five-star hotel culinary experience to create inventive tribal dishes. For instance, Lusihan’s “Banana Snack” won awards in a national culinary competition. It’s a unique treat with a crispy banana exterior, a change from traditional rice flour, wrapped around a fresh and soft banana. Moreover, the added twist of apples and tangy Japanese-style dressing elevates this dish, making it a refreshing appetizer. Another example, Lusihan is renowned for its “Crispy Pork with Roasted Bamboo Rice,” which is a creative Thao cuisine.
📍 No. 108, Wenhua Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 11:00–14:30, 17:00–20:30 Closed on Wed
Yuan’s Indigenous Cuisine 邵族頭目袁家美食
Source: 日月潭形象商圈名店網
For a taste of indigenous Taiwanese food, visit Yuan’s Indigenous Cuisine at Sun Moon Lake. This restaurant offers authentic dishes, including mountain boar and bamboo shoot, all served with a touch of tradition. As a result, the restaurant’s ambiance reflects the heritage of the local Atayal tribe, creating a unique dining experience.
📍 No. 97-1, Yiyong Street, Yuchih Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 11:00 – 14:30, 17:00 – 20:00 | Sat 11:00 – 21:00 | Sun 11:00 – 20:00 | Closed on Wed
Chila Mini Restaurant 支蠟小館
Source: 日月潭形象商圈名店網
Experience Sun Moon Lake’s famous “Swamp Eel” at Chishien Mini Restaurant, which has been serving Thao cuisine for over 40 years. Located right next to a 7-11 store in the Ita Thao business district, this is the place to enjoy “Swamp Eel” and “Presidential Fish,” among other upscale dishes. Not only Crispy swamp eel, but also delicious Presidential Fish, along with bamboo-tube-cooked rice, crispy Sun Moon Lake prawns, wild boar, and more, all combine to present the essence of Sun Moon Lake’s cuisine. Don’t miss this gastronomic treasure during your visit.
🥘 Must-Try: Swamp Eel, Presidential Fish, Bamboo-tube Rice, Crispy Prawns, Wild Boar
📍 No. 87, Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 08:00 – 19:00
Abu Sam’An 阿布莎夢安
Source: 愛食記
Abu Sam’An offers traditional Thao cuisine. They specialize in grilled mountain boar skewers, horse-hoof mountain boar sausages, and scrumptious grilled millet mochi. These local delicacies exhibit a unique indigenous flavor. The owner is hospitable and fun, making Abu Sam’An a must-visit spot for an authentic Thao culinary experience. Don’t miss the golden-brown, crispy millet mochi with a variety of flavors such as honey, brown sugar, seaweed, peanuts, chocolate, condensed milk, and salt and pepper.
📍 No. 298-306, Huanhu Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 10:00 – 20:00
Liu Shange Stone Grill BBQ 劉山哥石板烤肉
Source: Liu Shange Stone Grill BBQ Facebook page
Highly recommended by gourmet enthusiasts, Liu Shange Stone Grill BBQ draws you in with its tantalizing aroma. They are known for their signature dish of horse-hoof mountain boar meat and sausages. The chef expertly sautés onions with the pork, topping it generously with spring onions. Moreover, the portions of mountain boar and onions are substantial. Therefore, ensure you won’t be able to resist eating bite after bite, savoring the flavors.
📍 No. 27, Shuishalian Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 09:00 – 20:00
Sun Moon Winery – Millet Wine 日月酒莊
Source: Sun Moon Winery Facebook page
While exploring the Idashao Old Street at Sun Moon Lake, be sure to try some traditional millet wine. Sun Moon Winery is known for preserving the traditions of the Thao indigenous culture by crafting unique, pure, and low-alcohol millet wines. These wines not only taste great but also offer potential beauty benefits, thanks to their natural fermentation process.
📍 107 Wenhua Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 08:30 – 20:00
🌐 Website (❌English)
Tea18 Chaowu Tea Shop 朝霧茶莊 Tea18
Source: 儒儒的日常扎記 Blog
Tea18 Chaowu is a specialty tea shop that sells not only souvenirs but also offers various tea drinks. For example, they include Ruby Red Tea, Assam Tea, Kyoto Uji Matcha, and ice cream. They have outdoor seating, providing a relaxing space for visitors. More importantly, all tea products and leaves are certified through TAP production and sales records and are grown using pesticide-free, natural farming methods. As a result, their Ruby Red Tea has received multiple Michelin ITQI International Superior Taste Award recognitions, ensuring quality with every sip.
📍10-1 Dehua Street, Riyue Village, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 09:00 – 21:00
Shuishe Pier
When you step off the boat at Shuishe Pier at Sun Moon Lake, you’re not just greeted by breathtaking scenery but also by a world of culinary delights. This charming area at Sun Moon Lake offers a variety of food vendors, from traditional Taiwanese street food to unique fusion cuisines. Here are three must-visit restaurants at Shuishe Pier.
Riyue Restaurant 日月餐坊
Source: Nash 神之領域 Blog
Riyue Restaurant is a highly popular dining establishment at Sun Moon Lake. When visiting Shuishe Pier, it’s advised to make a reservation in advance as it’s often fully booked. The restaurant offers both a la carte and set menu options. The signature Presidential Fish dish is a must-try, along with scallion omelet rolls and fragrant bamboo-tube-cooked rice. The restaurant combines traditional Taiwanese flavors with the distinct taste of the Thao tribe. The chef insists on using locally sourced seasonal ingredients, delivering dishes that are both visually appealing and exceptionally flavorful.
📍No. 211-1, Zhongshan Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 11:00 – 14:00, 17:00 – 20:00, Closed on Wed
Morphine Cafe 碼啡館
Source: 碼啡館 Facebook page
Morphine Cafe introduces indigenous-style set meals featuring dishes like millet pig trotters, garlic-flavored mountain pork, and three-cup chicken. You can enjoy these unique dishes even if you’re dining alone. The meals are beautifully presented in indigenous-style utensils, enhancing their appeal. Don’t miss the homemade Sun Moon Lake Taiwanese tea No. 18 or millet wine with Assam black tea jelly for dessert, perfectly complementing the dining experience. The restaurant offers a stunning view of Sun Moon Lake, with second-floor seating allowing you to overlook the entire lakeside, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon.
📍 No. 11, Mingsheng Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 11:00 – 14:00, 17:00 – 20:00, Closed on Mon
Chef A-Fong Restaurant 阿豐師餐廳
Source: Chef A-Fong Restaurant Facebook page
Tucked away in a quiet corner near the Dragon and Phoenix Temple at Sun Moon Lake, Chef A-Fong Restaurant is a hidden gem known for its innovative and visually stunning dishes. Chef A-Fong is renowned for his culinary creativity, using locally sourced ingredients to create artful presentations that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Be prepared for an exquisite dining experience that blends traditional Taiwanese flavors with modern culinary techniques. (Make sure to reserve a seat for dinner in advance!)
Source: Chef A-Fong Restaurant Facebook page
📍 No. 2, Lane 406, Zhongshan Road, Yuchih Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 11:00 – 14:30, 17:00 – 19:30, Closed on Tue
Sun Moon Lake Black Tea and Café
Sun Moon Lake isn’t just about stunning vistas and delicious street food; it’s also renowned for its exceptional tea culture. With thriving tea plantations in the region, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of black tea. In this section, we’ll take you on a tour of the local black tea culture and introduce you to charming lakeside cafes where you can savor a cup of aromatic tea with panoramic lake views.
Sun Moon Lake Tea Factory 日月老茶廠
Source: Sun Moon Lake Tea Factory Facebook page
Experience the rich history of Taiwan’s tea culture at the Sun Moon Lake Tea Factory, a charming tea factory turned cultural attraction. The factory, founded in 1959, has preserved its heritage while evolving to incorporate modern functions. Explore the tea-making process, taste different varieties of locally grown black teas, and immerse yourself in the world of Taiwan’s tea culture.
📍 No. 38, You Shui Lane, Yuchih Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 8:00 – 17:00
Lugao Coffee Estate 鹿篙咖啡莊園
Source: Lugao Coffee Estate Facebook page
Perched on a hill adorned with tea gardens and coffee trees, Lugao Coffee Estate offers not only a delightful caffeine fix but also a serene ambiance. The menu boasts a selection of estate-grown Italian coffee, single-origin brews, and Taiwanese teas, all served with care. The coffee beans used here are locally sourced, providing a smooth, fruity, and slightly acidic flavor profile. Don’t miss the chance to purchase freshly roasted coffee beans as souvenirs.
📍 No. 31-6, Fragrant Tea Lane, Yuchih Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 9:00 – 17:00
💸 Minimum order NT$ 120 per person
Hohocha 喝喝茶
Source: Hohocha Facebook page
Hohocha is a place where you can dive deep into the art of tea. Learn about the tea-making process and the stories behind each cup of tea. Try their signature red teas like Assam, Red Jade, and Red Rhythm. Don’t forget to savor their delightful tea-infused snacks and desserts, including tea-flavored ice cream, as you relax in this cozy tea haven. We have a detailed blog post about Sun Moon Lake Black Tea, Sun Moon Lake Milk Tea and more.
📍 No. 443-36, Yuchih Street, Yuchih Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 9:00 – 17:20
Desolate Coffee 蠻荒咖啡
Source: Desolate Coffee Facebook page
Desolate Coffee is a trendy café by Sun Moon Lake, known for its stunning white wooden structure and bright, clean interior. The café became an Instagram hotspot due to its picturesque design. While they don’t offer reservations and can get crowded, it’s worth the wait. They moved to a new location in early 2019, offering a dreamy café experience with beautiful artwork on display. Desolate coffee provides a wide variety of food including dessert, brunch and spaghetti, making it a great place to go when visiting Sun Moon Lake.
Source: Desolate Coffee Facebook page
📍 41 Wenhua Lane, Zhongming Village, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 10:00 – 18:00
🌐 Website (❌English)
February Coffee 二月咖啡
Source: 涼子是也 Blog
February Coffee is a local favorite at Sun Moon Lake. They serve a variety of delicious items, including thin-crust pizzas and pasta served with freshly brewed red tea. The café’s friendly felines often make appearances, making it a great choice for those who prefer individual dishes over-sharing. Keep in mind that they’re open only on weekends.
📍 86-3 Zhongxing Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️Weekends 11:00 – 20:00
Monster Lake Coffee (Mizukami Café) 湖の怪物咖啡
Source: 帶著心去旅行 Blog
Monster Lake Coffee embraces a Japanese style, offering indoor seating with tatami mats that require shoe removal. The café’s wooden sliding doors provide great views of the outdoor scenery and beautiful natural light. They serve traditional red turtle cake in an innovative way, using custom molds to bake variations like peanut, sesame, and matcha flavors. The result is a cute and Instagram-worthy “Monster Cake” set, complete with red bean cakes and cookies inspired by traditional English afternoon tea. Enjoy a fusion of local snacks in a Japanese atmosphere with a cup of coffee or tea.
📍 118 Yiyong Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 09:00 – 19:00 Closed on Wed
Nomad Day Café 日月潭遊牧咖啡
Source: Nomad Day Café Facebook page
Nomad Day Café, located across from the Shuishe Visitor Center, is well-known for its breakfast and desserts. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a meal after a morning walk or a bike ride by Sun Moon Lake. The café is run by sisters who have spent significant time abroad, which is reflected in its international ambiance. The menu offers a fusion of French, Australian, and Taiwanese cuisine with locally sourced, seasonal produce and bread from the Yuguang Kiln Bakery in Yuchi. Don’t miss their popular “Cherry Duck Breast Caramelized Onion” sandwich or their homemade desserts, served with hand-brewed coffee or local red tea while enjoying the lakeside view.
📍 180 Zhongshan Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ Sun to Fri 09:30 – 17:00, Sat 09:30 – 17:00
Sun Moon Lake Tea Shop 日月潭紅茶館
Source: 樂活的大方 Blog
When you think of Sun Moon Lake, you think of tea. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to bring home some of this region’s finest tea. Sun Moon Lake is famous for its Black Tea No. 18 (Ruby Red), known for its deep, mellow fragrance. Black Tea No. 21 (Red Rhythm) is also a favorite, offering a fruity aroma and a refined, sweet taste. You’ll find a wide variety of tea products, making them great souvenirs to take home.
📍 441 Yuchi Street, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️08:30 – 17:00
Other Recommended Cuisines
Beyond the popular piers and well-known attractions, Sun Moon Lake hides a treasure trove of hidden culinary gems waiting to be explored.
Cloud Pavilion 雲月舫
Source: Fleur de Chine Hotel
The Cloud Pavilion is a high-altitude restaurant located on the rooftop of the Fleur de Chine Hotel, offering a 270-degree panoramic view of Sun Moon Lake. The views are breathtaking, and the quality of food and service is top-notch. However, it’s essential to note that the prices reflect the premium experience. Whether enjoying breakfast with an early morning lake view, afternoon tea with a sunset backdrop, or sipping on a drink while admiring the glistening lake at night, the Cloud Pavilion promises an unforgettable dining experience.
📍 No. 23, Zhongzheng Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️07:30 – 10:00, 16:00 – 23:00
Golden Granny’s Mushroom Tea Eggs 金盆阿嬤的香菇茶葉蛋
Source: 陳小可的吃喝玩樂 Blog
Golden Granny’s Mushroom Tea Eggs are a must-try delicacy when visiting Sun Moon Lake. Located at the Xuan Guang Temple pier, it offers a delicious treat that has been a staple for over 60 years. The eggs are marinated for a minimum of six hours, resulting in their rich flavor and deep brown color. Upon cracking the eggshells, the aromatic scent of tea and a subtle mushroom flavor greet your senses. While mushroom tea eggs can be found throughout Sun Moon Lake, this 60-year-old shop maintains its unique charm with a secret marinade recipe that’s irreplaceable.
📍 338 Zhongzheng Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County (map)
🕰️ 09:30 – 17:00
Sun Moon Lake isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a true delight for the taste buds. From the local flavors of Shuishe Pier and the Thao indigenous traditions at Ita Thao Pier to the aromatic black teas and hidden culinary gems, this stunning destination caters to every palate. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy good eats while basking in natural beauty, Sun Moon Lake has something for everyone. The diverse and mouthwatering offerings make this Taiwan gem a must-visit for those seeking a complete sensory experience. So, pack your appetite and embark on a gastronomic adventure in one of Taiwan’s most picturesque settings.
If you are planning a trip at Sun Moon Lake for 2 days, this ultimate guide may give you some ideas. Also, we recommend you to watch the sunrise and sunset while doing SUP on the lake. Here are 6 SUP operations for those water-sport lovers!
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