These are the must-try meatball soup and braised pork rice at Shilin — hidden in a traditional wet market!

Photos & Text /by Min G

Braised pork rice can be considered a national dish, but because it's so ubiquitous, shops with unique takes tend to stand out more.光辉肉羹 (Guanghui Meatball Soup), tucked inside the Huaron Market in Shilin, is one such gem. With its high-value-for-money braised pork rice and meatball soup, it has won over the taste buds of many locals. Come dinnertime, it’s often fully booked, and some even say it’s the kind of flavor you start missing if you go without it for a while — making it a top pick for Shilin residents when it comes to braised pork rice!

Although Guanghui Meatball Soup is located inside a market, since Huaron Market is primarily a morning wet market, just look for the shop with the bright orange sign once you’re inside — you can’t miss it. The menu is simple, featuring mainly braised pork rice and meatball soup, along with small sides like white croaker belly, fried tofu, and blanched greens. The focus is on straightforward, unpretentious fare. The star, braised pork rice, gives off an aroma the moment it’s served — the savory broth made from pork belly and pork skin hints at its quality. The seasoning isn’t overly salty; instead, the rich fragrance of the pork complements the rice, releasing its flavors bite after bite. The texture also avoids the common issue of braised pork rice being too heavy or greasy, offering a smooth and satisfying mouthfeel. And if a regular bowl doesn’t satisfy you, just ask for the “extra-large” portion — it’ll definitely fill up any braised pork rice fan to the brim.

Aside from that, foodies won’t want to miss the signature meatball soup. It includes three main ingredients: meatballs, shredded bamboo shoots, and napa cabbage. The meatballs are large and incredibly chewy, giving a very satisfying fullness with every bite. The bamboo shoots and cabbage may play supporting roles, but they add delightful textural contrast to the soup. The soup isn’t overly thickened with starch, so it doesn’t feel overly heavy. A splash of vinegar adds a mild tang that whets the appetite, making the broth particularly refreshing. The interplay between the soup and the ingredients is truly greater than the sum of its parts — foodies would be doing themselves a disservice by skipping this one.

In truth, many delicious foods are tucked away in alleyways and side streets. Discovering them is all about keeping your eyes open. The flavors you cherish might just be right around the corner. Guanghui Meatball Soup is just like those hidden neighborhood gems — no flashy signs, no fancy decor — yet it has stood the test of time in the market with its comforting, unassuming flavors. As you enjoy the braised pork rice and slurp the meatball soup, it fills not just your stomach, but warms your heart and soul as well.

Guanghui Meatball Soup
Address: No. 21, Huarong St., Shilin District, Taipei City
Business Hours: Monday–Saturday 16:10–23:00 (Closed when sold out)

Author: Min G

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