While Shilin is the largest, Raohe is often the local favorite. It is a single, long pedestrian street marked by an ornate, glowing gate next to the beautiful Ciyou Temple. The market is a sensory overload of sizzling grills, bubbling vats of soup, and the controversial scent of stinky tofu.
The market is famous for its specific stalls, many of which have received Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition. It is a linear market, making it easy to navigate: you walk down one side and back up the other, eating as you go.
One fun fact people love:
The most famous snack here is the Black Pepper Bun (Hujiao Bing). You’ll see a massive queue at the entrance near the temple; the buns are stuck to the side of a traditional clay oven and pulled out piping hot and crispy.
Where in Taipei is it?
Songshan District, right next to the Songshan MRT Station (Green Line).
Things nobody tells you:
Don't eat a big dinner before going! The best way to experience Raohe is to share small portions of many different dishes with a friend so you can try 5–10 different snacks in one night.