Tamsui, a coastal town in New Taipei City renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance, is equally celebrated for its delicious food. The local food scene is a packed with Taiwanese flavors, offering a great mix of traditional dishes and modern interpretations. From the iconic fish ball soup to the delectable oyster omelets and the irresistible grilled squid, Tamsui’s seafood and street food are a must-try for any visitor. In this post, we will list out all the best Tamsui restaurants and must-eat local favorites that have made Tamsui a foodie’s heaven.
Tamsui Old Street
Source: newtaipei.travel
After exiting Tamsui MRT station and taking a right turn, you’ll arrive at the famous Tamsui Old Street. It is a pedestrian-only street brimming with historical charm and tasty offerings. This popular tourist spot is lined with traditional shops, trendy boutiques, and most importantly, a plethora of food stalls and restaurants serving up local favorites.
As you stroll through the older sections like Jianchen Street, admire the well-preserved architecture and the views of the Tamsui River. Qingshui Street, with its historical temples and cultural significance, is also worth exploring. Don’t miss the opportunity to pay your respects at the Qingshui Temple. You can also learn about Dr. Mackay’s contributions to the town. Most importantly, be sure to indulge in the mouthwatering local delicacies that have made Tamsui Old Street a foodie’s paradise. Many of our recommendations will be on Tamsui Old Street, so be sure not to miss out on it.
Source: SmileTaiwan
We understand some people might want to escape the hustle and noise of street food and night market. No worries, you still have plenty of options. If you want to dine in a restaurant for a more complete experience, head to the later sections.
Tamsui Agei and Fish Balls
Source: HARRYPAN
If you’re in Tamsui, you simply must try Agei. This is the most iconic food in Tamsui. The name “Agei” is derived from the Japanese word for “fried tofu.” To make Agei, a hole is carved into fried tofu and filled with stir-fried vermicelli. It’s then sealed with fish paste and steamed before being drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce or the shop’s secret recipe. Yum!
There are plenty of restaurants that offers Agei and fish balls, we have listed out a few here if you want to try them out.
Tamsui Wenhua Agei 文化阿給
Source: bobby.tw
Wenhua Agei (文化阿給) is a must-try local delicacy when visiting Tamsui. Locals and students from Tamkang University highly recommend the original Wenhua Agei shop, located on Zhenli Street, up the hill from the bustling ferry pier. This shop has garnered a 4.1-star rating on Google Maps with over 5,000 reviews, so the hype is real. It’s a testament to its enduring popularity that they still wrap their takeout orders in newspaper, just like in the old days, making it a nostalgic treat for former students.
The Tamsui Ferry Pier Agei Old Shop 淡水渡船頭阿給老店
Source: David & Milly
The Tamsui Ferry Pier Agei Old Shop is a local favorite known for its delicious Agei. The multi-layered texture of the fried tofu skin, combined with the sweet and savory sauce, is simply irresistible. The generous filling of vermicelli ensures that you’ll feel satisfied after just one serving. This popular spot is always packed with customers, but they manage to serve food quickly, so you won’t have to wait long. Besides the must-try Agei, their fish ball soup and steamed meatballs are also worth trying.
Old Shop Tamsui Fish Ball 老店淡水魚丸
Source: Old Shop Tamsui Fish Ball Facebook
Old Shop Tamsui Fish Ball has been a beloved local institution for 45 years. With its spacious and air-conditioned dining area, it’s a comfortable place to enjoy a meal. While the seating is limited, it’s more spacious than before, and the friendly service adds to the charm. This old-school eatery is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Tamsui cuisine. Be sure to try their signature fish balls, Agei, and sweet potato cakes. We also recommend their meat buns, which were delicious. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.
Good Fortune Tamsui Fish Balls 福又又
Source: Good Fortune Tamsui Fish Ball Facebook
Right next to Old Shop Tamsui Fish Ball, you’ll find Good Fortune Tamsui Fish Balls, another popular spot for traditional Tamsui snacks. With high ratings online, it offers many classic local favorites. One unique item on their menu is the “Mini Agei,” which comes in a serving of three for NT$55 but is limited in quantity. Good Fortune offers a wide variety of affordable snacks and even offers set meals.
The shop has recently undergone renovations, providing a much more comfortable dining environment. Their Agei is particularly noteworthy, featuring a special sauce. The shrimp rolls are also highly recommended for their crispy texture and hearty filling. And don’t forget to try their colorful and delicious small meatball soup.
Best Tamsui Seafood and Savory Street Food
Ah Xiang Shrimp Roll 阿香蝦捲
Source: LINE, TripAdvisor
Ah Xiang Shrimp Roll offers a truly authentic Taiwanese snacking experience. The crispy, golden-brown shrimp rolls are a testament to the skill of the cooks. Despite the constant stream of customers, the friendly staff and quick service make the wait worthwhile. If you’re looking for a taste of local life in Tamsui, head over to Ah Xiang and indulge in their delicious shrimp rolls.
Ah Xiang Quail Eggs with Anchovies 阿香魩仔魚烤鳥蛋
Source: stancylife.com, IG@foody__eason
If you’re visiting Tamsui Old Street and looking for a unique and delicious snack, you have to try Ah Xiang’s Quail Eggs with Anchovies. It is located right by Ah Xiang’s shrimp roll. With so many quail egg vendors on the street, it’s important to seek out this particular one. They’re famous for being incredibly generous with their anchovies, guaranteeing at least 50 anchovies on every skewer! What’s more, their special sauce is a game-changer, and customers can even add their own homemade garlic soy sauce for an extra kick.
If you love seafood, we think you really should also head to Kaohiung’s Cijin Island or Orchid Island if you have time.
Ye’s Wonton 百葉溫州餛飩
Source: yeswonton.com
Ye’s Wonton is a well-known 50-year-old restaurant located on Tamsui Old Street. It’s a popular spot not only for tourists but also for locals. Many people are curious about the “Jay Chou Set Meal” and its connection to the famous Taiwanese singer. As a former student of Tamkang High School, Jay Chou was a regular customer at Ye’s Wonton. His go-to order was the Wonton Soup and Roasted Chicken Leg, which are two of the restaurant’s most popular dishes. If you’re visiting for the first time and unsure what to order, simply follow in Jay Chou’s footsteps and give this classic combination a try.
Le Tang Bao Soup Dumpling 樂湯包
Source: kaikk.tw
Le Tang Bao is a popular spot for delicious soup dumplings located just outside of Tamsui Market. They offer freshly steamed soup dumplings, shrimp dumplings, and steamed buns, and they open as early as 6:30 AM. This makes them a convenient choice for many commuters who stop by to grab a box for breakfast. Their thin-skinned soup dumplings are filled with hot, flavorful broth and are a real treat.
Hao Hao Shi Guangdong-style Steamed Rice Rolls 好好食廣東腸粉
Source: Books Travel
Hao Hao Shi offers a taste of authentic Guangdong cuisine right in Tamsui. Their steamed rice rolls are a must-try, featuring layers of thin, translucent rice noodle sheets filled with a generous amount of ingredients. The shrimp and egg rolls are especially popular, with plump, fresh shrimp and a flavorful sauce. The combination of soft, chewy rice noodles, savory fillings, and a touch of spice creates a truly satisfying dish.
Ya Ma Xiao Mi Scallion Pancake 亞麻小米蔥餅
Source: Ya Ma Xiao Mi Scallion Pancakes Facebook
Right next to Hao Hao Shi’s Guangdong-style steamed rice rolls, you’ll find Ya Ma Xiao Mi Scallion Pancake.Made with a unique blend of millet and flaxseed, these pancakes are offered in various sizes to suit your appetite. Cooked without additional oil and with a special technique to create a crispy edge, these pancakes are both satisfying and healthy. For those who prefer a bit more flavor, you can ask for a brush of sauce. The quality of the dough is so good that many customers even purchase it to make their own pancakes at home.
Tamsui Lin Ji Meatball 林記肉圓
Source: Food panda
Tamsui Lin Ji Meatball has been delighting locals with its delicious food for over 30 years. Their signature meatball is a must-try, and you can also enjoy it in a combo with their oil rice cakes and rice dumplings. The meatballs are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor, and they pair perfectly with their special sauce. We highly recommend ordering a bowl of their Four Gods Soup to complete your meal. It’s loaded with ingredients and has a rich flavor that will leave you wanting more. Whether you prefer to enjoy your meal fresh and hot or take it home to freeze for later, Lin Ji Meatball has you covered.
A Po Iron Eggs 阿婆鐵蛋
Source: apoironegg.com
Exploring Tamsui’s vibrant food scene wouldn’t be complete without trying the iconic tea eggs, fish crackers, and shrimp crackers. These savory snacks have become synonymous with the town. These local treats make for great souvenirs. A Po Iron Eggs, a beloved local shop with a 40-year history, is a must-visit for those seeking authentic Taiwanese flavors. Over the years, the range of flavors has expanded to cater to diverse tastes, making it even more appealing to visitors.
DAPUNZ 達胖滋
Source: Uber Eats
DAPUNZ is a hidden gem in Tamsui that offers a unique twist on the classic American burger. Despite its humble appearance, this small eatery is committed to providing customers with high-quality, made-to-order burgers. With a wide range of toppings to choose from, they can customize a burger that fits perfectly to your taste.
Best Tamsui Drinks and Desserts
Jumbo Ice cream 淡水巨無霸霜淇淋
Source: jumbo Ice Cream Facebook, IG@52_foodie
Soft serve ice cream is a beloved treat for people of all ages, and Tamsui’s Jumbo soft serve ice cream is no exception. These extra-long ice cream cones have become quite the attraction, drawing crowds with their impressive size. During the hot summer months, it’s almost a given that visitors to Tamsui Old Street will be spotted with one of these towering treats in hand. With multiple branches scattered throughout the old street, and a whopping nine flavors to choose from, satisfying your sweet tooth with a giant, creamy cone is a must-do when visiting Tamsui.
Corner Cone Gelato
Source: IG@cornerconegelato
Forget about regular ice cream, the newest must-try in Tamsui’s bustling Zhongzheng Road is the unbelievably cute hand made ice cream! Located amidst the famous fish crackers, a po iron eggs, and old-fashioned cakes, Corner Cone Gelato stands out with its adorable and lifelike Poodle and French Bulldog-shaped ice creams. These treats are so cute, you’ll hesitate to take a bite! You can also ask for custom made ice cream of a character you like!
A-mam’s Plum Juice 阿媽的酸梅湯
Source: newtaipei.travel, Taipei Fun Pass
There’s something truly special about sipping a glass of A-mam’s Plum Juice while exploring Tamsui. The sweet and tangy flavor, combined with the nostalgic charm of the drink, creates a memorable experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this iconic beverage is a must-try when in Tamsui.
Nanina Maru 淡水浪花丸
Source: Nanira Maru Facebook
Tamsui’s popular ice cream spot, Nanina Maru, has brought a taste of Okinawa to the area. Their signature colorful bear-shaped shaved ice is not only adorable and Instagram-worthy but also incredibly delicious. The best part? You can enjoy your sweet treat while taking in the calming views of Tamsui River. There’s nothing quite like savoring a refreshing shaved ice on a hot summer day with a beautiful waterfront backdrop.
Original Cake 源味本舖
Source: Original Cake Facebook
Original Cake is a must-visit bakery in Tamsui, always drawing crowds. Their traditional Taiwanese sponge cake defied my expectations. You will be pleasantly surprised by its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The cheese flavor was the perfect addition, providing a delightful balance of sweet and savory. It’s no wonder this bakery is so popular.
Fu Ge Stone Cake 福哥石頭餅
Source: ifoodie.tw
Fu Ge Stone Cake is a local treasure in Tamsui that offers a truly unique culinary experience. The stone cakes are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the best of red bean cakes, sponge cakes, pancakes, and croquettes. The endless flavor combinations make it easy to find your perfect match. If you’re looking for a delicious and affordable snack, Fu Ge Stone Cake is the place to go.
Grandma’s Mochi 麻吉奶奶鮮奶麻糬
Source: 奔奔小姐愛美食, newtaipei.travel
Grandma Mochi’s has quickly become a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. Their fresh milk mochi offers a unique and unforgettable taste experience. The soft, pillowy mochi, combined with the fragrant peanut powder, creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s no wonder that this small shop has become a popular destination in Tamsui.
107 Soybean Products 107豆製品手工豆花
Source: Uber Eats
Behind the trendy facade of 107 Soybean Products lies a 30-year tradition of tofu making. This local favorite supplies tofu to many of Tamsui’s most popular agei stalls, ensuring the freshest ingredients for their products. Their house-made soy milk and tofu desserts are a must-try for anyone visiting Tamsui. The peanuts and red beans are cooked to a perfect texture, complementing the silky smooth tofu perfectly.
Di Mu’s White Sugar Cake 迪母ㄟ白糖粿淡水鋪
Source: 貪吃熊小姐與小鳥胃先生, stancyteacher.tw
Di Mu’s White Sugar Cake offers a delightful twist on a classic Taiwanese snack. Beyond the traditional sesame and peanut flavors, they’ve introduced innovative options like matcha, guanyin tea, and sesame powder. Each bite offers a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, with the unique flavor of your chosen topping. It’s a nostalgic treat that will transport you back in time.
Best Tamsui Restaurants
Memory Riverside Restaurant 時光樹影Memory河岸景觀餐廳
Source: camilleblog.com, ifoodie.tw
Memory Riverside Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers stunning river views and delicious food. Their menu features a variety of dishes, from comforting classics like braised pork leg and zhajiangmian to more unique options like long-marinated drunken chicken. For a sweet treat, indulge in their assortment of Western and Eastern pastries. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Memory is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal.
Water Front Restaurant Rongti Branch 水灣餐廳榕堤店
Water Front Restaurant Rongti Branch is a highly recommended restaurant for those visiting Tamsui. Known as one of the most beautiful oceanfront restaurants in the area, it boasts stunning panoramic views of the Tamsui River. The restaurant’s South-East Asian-inspired decor, combined with the preserved historical building, creates a relaxing atmosphere that transports you straight to Bali.
Source: waterfront.com.tw
The menu features exquisite and delicious dishes, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a meal with loved ones. Whether you’re on a romantic date, gathering with friends, or exploring with family, Water Front Restaurant is sure to enhance your experience. Combine your visit with a day trip around Tamsui to make the most of your journey.
RAYCA Coffe Bistro 文森食堂
Source: angelababy0822.com
RAYCA Coffe Bistro is a must-visit for food lovers seeking authentic French cuisine. Helmed by a former Le Cordon Bleu chef, the restaurant offers a delightful menu featuring homemade coffee, pasta, tiramisu, crème brûlée, and more. Their signature dish, the Penghu squid pasta, is a local favorite. With a rotating menu, regular customers can always look forward to new culinary surprises.
Pallet bistro 木棧板餐廳
Source: Pallet Bistro Facebook
Pallet Bistro is a charming restaurant that offers a taste of Europe in Tamsui. The bistro’s rustic, wooden decor and large windows provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal. The menu features a variety of international dishes, including hearty pasta and seafood options. With its beautiful river views and delicious food, Pallet Bistro has become a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike.
Hidden Burger 藏室
Source: Hidden Burger Facebook
If you’re looking for a truly exceptional burger in Tamsui, Hidden Burger is a must-try. Their burgers feature a crispy, chewy bun and juicy, flavorful patties. A standout on the menu is the Strawberry Cream Cheese Bacon Burger, which combines a perfectly cooked beef patty with a tangy strawberry cream cheese sauce and crispy bacon. The unique flavor combination is surprisingly delicious.
Eiles Bistro 艾莉斯餐酒館
Source: Eiles Bistro Facebook
For a special occasion in Tamsui, Eiles Bistro is the perfect choice. This elegant restaurant offers a fusion of Western and Asian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu features a variety of dishes, including homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty mains like German pork knuckle and steak. The intimate atmosphere and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a celebration with friends.
Best Tamsui Cafes
Gozenkamicha 御前上茶
Source: ifoodie.tw, huablog.tw
Gozenkamicha is a matcha lover’s paradise. This new shop in Tamsui offers a unique and authentic matcha experience. Using high-quality matcha from a renowned Kyoto tea house, Gozenkamicha creates a range of delicious drinks and treats. From the rich and flavorful “Kyoto Matcha Drink” to the refreshing “Matcha Lemon Green Tea,” there’s a matcha beverage for every taste.
LB Cafe 淡水長堤咖啡餐館
Source: fulffenblog.tw
While Tamsui Old Street is bustling with activity, there’s a serene seaside retreat just a short distance away. Nestled along the Tamsui River, LB Cafe offers a stylish and relaxing atmosphere. The cafe provides a diverse menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and risotto, making it perfect for a casual meal or afternoon tea.
For those seeking breathtaking views, the rooftop offers an exceptional vantage point of the Tamsui River. This picturesque setting provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle. And the best part? LB Cafe is open late, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a romantic evening and admire the nighttime cityscape.
Ancre Café 安克黑咖啡
Source: duringmyjourney.com
Ancre café is the perfect place to unwind and recharge. The café’s tranquil atmosphere, combined with its panoramic river views, creates a truly relaxing experience. Their signature donut pancakes and smiley face latte are not only visually appealing but also taste amazing. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date spot or a place to catch up with friends, Ancre café is sure to impress.
So there you have it, folks! A culinary adventure through Tamsui’s amazing food scene. From the iconic Agei and fish ball soup to the delectable local desserts and the beautiful water front restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Pack your bags, grab your appetite, and head to Tamsui for a food experience you won’t forget!
If you like our What to Eat series, you might want to checkout our other recommendations in Taipei, including Beitou, Yangmingshan, Ximending, Maokong and more. If you have the luxury to travel outside of Taipei, we think Alishan, Sun Moon Lake and Kenting Beach are great additions to consider. See you in the other posts!
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