Visiting New Taipei Christmas Town alone isn’t enough — don’t miss these five must-try nearby delicacies

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

New Taipei City’s Happy Christmas Town officially lit up at the “Christmas Town Illumination Show” on November 24. Even during the test lighting, visitors nearby couldn’t help but gasp in amazement. With the theme music and twinkling lights across the area, a festive Christmas atmosphere has already filled the surroundings. Aside from admiring the light shows and performances, you shouldn’t miss the food spots around the city hall. Here are five recommended restaurants located from Banqiao Station to the City Hall Plaza area that travelers might want to add to their list.

1. Liubuji Chaozhou Claypot Congee
Liubuji is Taiwan’s first-ever claypot congee specialty store, bringing authentic Chaozhou-style claypot congee from inland China to Taiwan. Chaozhou claypot congee is a savory rice porridge cooked exclusively in a claypot. The congee itself is the main ingredient, and since the Chaozhou region is coastal, it’s rich in seafood. Seafood is used as the base for the congee, along with unique Chaozhou seasonings, resulting in a distinctive style that is popular across the country.
 
Zhongshan Road Flagship Store: No. 160-3, Section 1, Zhongshan Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City
Minquan Branch: No. 3, Minquan Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City

2. Merci Cafe

Merci Café takes its name from the French word for "thank you," as a gesture of gratitude to every customer. The shop is committed to using fresh fruits and vegetables for salads and homemade yogurt, with well-portioned servings to ensure a healthy and guilt-free meal.

The café’s interior features a distinctive style, combining retro elements with modern dried flower décor and an abundance of vintage furniture. The space presents a calm, refined, and minimalist aesthetic. It’s not only a popular local café and brunch spot, but also attracts many visitors from outside the area.

 
Address: No. 17, Lane 7, Xinmin Street, Banqiao District, New Taipei City
Business Hours: 09:00 - 21:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)