The authentic sweet taste that “melts in your heart”—Red Bean Fried Mantou for just NT$5 each, and no price hikes in sight for 60 years of Taichung old-school flavor

▲ A classic sweet snack from a Taichung alley—Red Bean Fried Mantou for just NT$5 each. (Photo provided by IG user emma___.wu. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Travel Center / Compiled Report

While colorful Western-style sweets dazzle the eye and soothe the soul, traditional Taiwanese-style classic snacks can hold their own in the flavor department too. The little street vendor “Everyday Mantou,” located near Taichung’s Second Market, is a long-time favorite known to locals. It has been featured on major TV stations, and its classic fried red bean mantou is so addictive, you just can’t stop at one.

▲ A red bean fried mantou you can enjoy every day, with no price hike for decades. (Photo provided by IG user emma___.wu. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

▲ Customers bring their own containers to carry these golden little buns. (Photo provided by IG user brave0113. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

The owner’s over 60 years of skill were passed down from a Japanese master. His wrinkled hands insist on kneading the dough by hand, wrapping and making each piece fresh on the spot. Each wrapper is stuffed with a generous filling of specially made traditional red bean paste, then deep-fried until golden and crispy. The not-too-sweet filling pairs perfectly with the non-greasy crust—bite into one while it’s hot and you’ll be enchanted. On weekends, be prepared to line up to get your hands on one.

▲ The old man’s craftsmanship is the taste most familiar to locals. (Photo provided by IG user goshen7125. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Everyday Mantou has been open every day since its founding in 1949. To ensure customers can enjoy these delicious little buns daily, it never closes—even operating year-round (except on special holidays). The golden, crispy mantou are filled with traditional red bean paste, and each one costs just NT$5. For ten years, there’s never been a price increase. This affordable, down-to-earth treat has become a beloved classic flavor among locals.

Everyday Mantou
Price: NT$5 per piece
Address: Intersection of Section 1, Taiwan Boulevard, Taichung City, No. 336 Lane
Business Hours: 9:00–19:00, year-round (except special holidays)