Creative New Ways to Enjoy Gua Bao: A Local Favorite in Taichung

By MOOK Travel Editorial Team
 
When traditional gua bao meets modern creativity, the blend of old and new can spark something unique. Located in the Taichung Railway Station commercial area, “Shengqiao Gua Bao” is a cozy 5-ping shop filled with a strong retro Japanese vibe. What they sell are gua baos without the usual pork belly and pickled vegetables—instead, you’ll find creative combinations like fries, salted pork, fried noodles, and even ice cream. The unlikely pairings result in surprisingly delicious flavors.

“Shengqiao Gua Bao” offers six different gua bao flavors, plus a surprise hidden flavor each day. One popular option is the “Dongquan Fried Noodles Gua Bao,” which stuffs the iconic Taichung breakfast dish—fried noodles—with the well-known Dongquan chili sauce, turning it into a creative filling. The rich minced pork and chewy noodles are so good, you might miss out if you come too late.

Another signature item, the “Fried Red Bean Ice Cream Gua Bao,” features a gua bao shell that’s been deep-fried to give it a floury aroma and crispy texture. It’s then stuffed with the shop’s specially made red bean ice cream, packed with red bean bits, and finally drizzled with condensed milk—definitely a hit among sweet lovers.