2. Royal Yuan’s Ice-Fire Glutinous Balls
This ice shop, with branches in TungHua and Raohe Night Markets, is famous for its “ice-fire fusion” combo of glutinous balls and shaved ice. Biting into hot, steaming glutinous balls alongside cool, crunchy shaved ice creates an amazingly satisfying contrast you've never experienced before.
Even better, there are “lemon juice” and “osmanthus wine” on the counter that you can drizzle over your ice — such a treat. Especially the lemon juice, with its sweet-tart freshness, cuts through the heat instantly. Next time you’re at TungHua or Raohe Night Market, give this combo a try.
Recommended reading:Is it OK for women to eat ice? Smart ways to enjoy ice without harming your health
3. Chengdu Star Fruit Ice
Located at Exit 6 of Taipei Metro’s Ximen Station, Chengdu Star Fruit Ice has been serving up its signature “star fruit ice,” “plum ice,” and “pineapple ice” since 1966 — a tradition that has lasted over 50 years. At peak hours, expect long queues. Its sweet, tangy, slightly salty star fruit ice is both thirst-quenching and addictive.
The unique flavor is the result of the owner’s dedication: fruits are hand-picked, cleaned, and marinated for “over three months” to ensure the perfect infusion of flavor — meeting the boss’s exacting standards. Honest taste, fair price — an essential summer refresher.
4.IceMonster
Operating with the philosophy of “upholding purity and nature’s pride, bringing Taiwan’s goodness to the world,” this is none other than Ice Monster (formerly Yongkang Ice), the inventor of the world’s first mango ice. Their mango ice was even ranked among CNN’s “World’s 50 Most Delicious Desserts,” making it unquestionably one of Taipei’s must-try ice treats.
And Ice Monster isn’t just in Taiwan — it has also expanded to Japan, China, and even Hawaii, truly earning the title “Taiwan’s pride in the ice world.”
Recommended reading:Kids eating ice as a main meal? How to maintain a balanced diet in summer
5. Qiwiqiwa
If you love Thai-style frozen treats, don’t miss the recently popular “Qiwiqiwa.” This Thai ice shop in Da’an District is actually the brand’s first overseas branch from its flagship store in Thailand.
The decor is white-themed, with wooden furniture and bright lighting, creating a fresh, relaxing vibe. A must-try is their signature “Thai Black Tea Royal Snow Ice,” made with milk snow ice and topped with pearls, almond flakes, and condensed milk — generous ingredients with creative flair.
Taipei really is a fantastic place for ice treats. From long-established classics to exotic new flavors, each has its own charm and story. But while ice is great for cooling down in summer, remember not to overdo it, or you might get a stomachache?!
[Authorized reprint from Women’s Learning | Original article: “Summer calls for ice cream: Top 5 popular and unique ice shops in Taipei — a frosty fairy tale of heritage vs. creativity”]
Executive Editor: Hovis
Copy Editor: Sherry