Nostalgic authentic Taiwanese flavor—“Fengsheng” serves up hearty dishes!

Text and photography by Chi Binghui

Located in the prime foodie district of Yongkang Street, the area is home to many renowned long-established eateries. Aside from spots like Din Tai Fung, Ga Ji, and Yongkang 15, which have become “attractions” in their own right, you can also find Japanese cuisine, beef noodles, and pasta here, making it a must-visit destination for foreign tourists. Many local food enthusiasts also enjoy coming after work to explore and discover unique restaurants.

Walking along Yongkang Street toward Lishui Street, the area near Jinhua Elementary School feels quieter. You pass small shops like tea houses and art galleries before arriving at a quintessentially Taiwanese eatery, “Fengsheng Canteen.” The name evokes the Taiwanese concept of “generosity and abundance,” simple yet expressive. The restaurant specializes in homestyle farm-fresh dishes that appeal to all ages, using familiar ingredients to recreate the most nostalgic flavors of Taiwan.

Modern people may be accustomed to gourmet delicacies, but rarely do they return to the basics—simple garden vegetables and fresh, wholesome meats. Yet, meals don’t always need to be overly processed or fancy. With traditional farmhouse cooking techniques, even the simplest ingredients can offer unforgettable taste.

Step up the stone steps, and you’re surrounded by red brick walls, wooden tables and chairs, doors, and Hakka floral fabric—an ambiance full of old-fashioned rural charm. Even the staff aren’t young; instead, you’ll find sincere, warm smiles. The owner hopes customers feel the “hospitality” and human touch of the shop, creating a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of the 1950s. There’s no menu—just head to the counter and order directly from the wooden signboard. You can also choose seasonal vegetables or seafood from the glass display case, where the staff will explain and introduce the options.