Six Must-Try Affordable Meat Buns Across Taiwan

By MOOK Scenic Spots Wu Pin-xuan, compiled and reported

Whether as a main meal or an afternoon snack, a hot, juicy meat bun is undoubtedly a beloved budget-friendly treat. But with so many bun shops on every street, which one should you choose? Here’s a list of six must-try delicious meat buns across Taiwan, from north to south and east to west. Not only can you savor local flavors, but the prices are also very affordable—guaranteed to leave you both happy and satisfied.

Gongzheng Buns

When in Hualien, you absolutely cannot miss the famous “Gongzheng Bun Shop.” The texture is like “giant xiaolongbao,” and the marinated filling makes the buns even more fragrant and delicious. Each bun costs just NT$5—great value and a must-try for every visitor to Hualien.

【Info】
Gongzheng Buns
Address: No. 199-2, Zhongshan Road, Hualien City
Phone: 03 834 2933
Hours: 6:00–20:30
 

Ke Lin Taiwanese Bun

Located near the Confucius Temple in Tainan, Ke Lin Taiwanese Bun is renowned for its best-selling Eight-Treasure Meat Bun. The filling combines pork collar and pork belly, along with green onions and egg yolks, resulting in a fresh and delicious taste. Made entirely by hand, the buns are generously stuffed, not greasy at all, and offer a 100% delicious rating.

【Info】
Ke Lin Taiwanese Bun
Address: No. 218, Section 1, Fuzhong Road, Tainan City
Phone: 06 222 2257
Hours: 8:00–21:30
 

Minxiong Meat Buns

The huge sign reading “Minxiong Meat Buns” is practically a landmark of Chiayi. The popular “Egg Yolk Minxiong Meat Bun” hides a sunny-looking egg yolk inside. The savory, sandy texture of the salted egg yolk pairs perfectly with the lean meat and dried bamboo shoot filling, offering a taste that’s especially satisfying with zero meaty aftertaste.

【Info】
Minxiong Meat Buns
Address: No. 171, Section 1, Jianguo Road, Minxiong Township, Chiayi County
Phone: 05 226 7323
Hours: 24 hours
 

Black Cat Buns

The Black Cat Buns that squirt meat juice out when you bite into them are a specialty of the Black Cat Bun Shop on Beimen Old Street in front of the Hsinchu City God Temple. With a history spanning over a century and passed down through five generations, the buns feature a crust made from traditional fermented dough and a filling of premium black pork. The fat is simmered for three hours before being mixed with lean meat, resulting in a truly unique flavor.