Juicy and Aromatic: 3 Beloved Pig’s Trotter Rice Spots Loved by Taipei Foodies

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

When it comes to pig’s trotters, many people immediately think of Wanluan pig’s trotters from Pingtung. But in fact, there are also quite a few specialty shops for pig’s trotters in Taipei City, among which the most popular is probably the veteran spot, Old Zhang’s Pig’s Trotters. The trotters are stewed until tender yet still have a bit of chew. Aside from Old Zhang’s, two other spots — Zheng Ji Pig’s Trotter Rice, with over 60 years of history, and Ah Shui Lion Pig’s Trotter King — also enjoy considerable popularity.

▲ “Old Zhang’s,” located on Minzu West Road, is a rather well-known shop. (Photo provided by Old K)

Old Zhang’s Pig’s Trotters
From trotters, mid-section legs, leg shank meat, to pig’s feet — you name it. Even the side dishes, including fried tofu, shredded bamboo shoots, and pig skin, come in a wide variety. As for the pig’s trotters, one bite reveals a rich, savory sauce flavor. They’re stewed until soft but still have a bit of bite, and you can even taste the springy texture of the tendons — the mouthfeel is truly excellent. As for the sides, the fried tofu isn’t just flavorful, it’s hearty with an aromatic hint of the stewing broth, making it perfect to order in multiple servings.

Address: No. 296, Minzu West Road, Datong District, Taipei City
Phone: 02-2597-2519


▲ The glistening pig’s trotters at Ah Shui Lion Pig’s Trotter King. (Photo provided)

Ah Shui Lion Pig’s Trotter King
The “Ah Shui Lion Pig’s Trotter King” in Taipei’s Eastern District originated in Taichung. Although its Taipei branch is only its second location, it remains hugely popular. The amber-hued pig’s trotters have foodies drooling. Inheriting the legacy of the original store, the trotters here are simmered in a time-honored brine made with soy sauce, scallions, garlic, brown sugar, and rice wine, with the addition of sugarcane juice for extra flavor. After being braised for four hours in this aged brine, the trotters are further steamed for half a day. Additionally, the owner has specially created the “Ultimate Challenge: Taiwan’s Best Pig’s Trotter Noodles.” Not only are the noodles stir-fried in sesame oil, but they are also drizzled with the pig’s trotter braising liquid and chicken soup stock.

Address: No. 235-1, Section 4, Zhongxiao East Road, Taipei City
Phone: 02-2752-1997

▲ Zheng Ji Pig’s Trotter Rice. (Photo provided by 25°C of Blankness)

Zheng Ji Pig’s Trotter Rice
Founded in the 42nd year of the Republic of China and boasting over 60 years of history, Zheng Ji Pig’s Trotter Rice is located near Taipei’s North Gate, on the same street as the Futoi Street Western-style Building. Now managed by the second generation, the unassuming shopfront is a must-visit spot for trotter enthusiasts, with some who don’t usually eat pig’s trotters becoming big fans of Zheng Ji’s version. The second-generation owner uses the front leg of the pig, and the aged brine is further enhanced with fried shallot bits to infuse rich flavor.

Address: No. 22, Yanping South Road, Section 2, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
Phone: 02-2371-1366