A foodie hub loved by locals: A collection of 7 popular spots at Taichung Second Market

▲ The signature braised pork rice at Smart Braised Pork Rice. (Photo / Orange Dog Loves Candy)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

With nearly 80 years of history, Taichung Second Market gathers many beloved and delicious Taiwanese snacks, holding cherished childhood memories for many locals. It’s also a go-to breakfast spot for residents, offering everything from pasta, braised pork rice, turnip cakes to various other breakfast favorites. Today, Ttoday and ETtoday News Cloud have compiled a list of 7 popular local vendors. Next time you’re in Taichung, don’t miss the chance to try them out.


▲ Shanhe Braised Pork Rice. (Photo / From Taichung City Central District Second Market Facebook)

Shanhe Braised Pork Rice
Braised pork rice is one of the most iconic comfort foods in Taiwan. At Shanhe Braised Pork Rice in Taichung Second Market, the shop opens as early as 5 AM. The braised pork rice here differs from that found in greater Taipei, being more similar to that of Changhua — featuring hearty chunks of tender, flavorful meat. Eating a bowl here in the morning will keep you full well into the afternoon.

Address: No. 372, Section 1, Taiwan Boulevard, Central District, Taichung City
Business Hours: 05:00 – 15:00


▲ Li Hai Braised Pork Rice. (Photo / From Taichung City Central District Second Market Facebook)

Li Hai Braised Pork Rice
Li Hai Braised Pork Rice and Shanhe Braised Pork Rice are two of the most popular vendors in Taichung Second Market. Both are famous for their large chunks of meat in the braised pork rice. They operate from 5 PM to 7 AM the next day, making them a favorite late-night or even early-morning meal option. Some locals even choose a bowl of braised pork rice for breakfast to energize their day. In addition to braised pork rice, the menu also includes cabbage stew, fried tofu, pork liver soup, and pork heart soup.

Address: No. 87, Section 2, Sanmin Road, Taichung City
Phone: 04-2226-0180

Smart Braised Pork Rice
This is also an old shop with an 80-year history, now run by the third generation. Among the three braised pork rice shops in the market, it has the smallest space, but you can enjoy your meal without waiting in line.

Address: No. 221, Zhongzheng Road, Central District, Taichung City (Entrance near Zhongzheng Road, Second Market)
Phone: 04-22260180
Business Hours: 11:00 – 19:00


▲ Old Wang’s Turnip Cake (Photo / From Taichung City Central District Second Market Facebook)

Old Wang’s Turnip Cake
This is a popular local breakfast spot. Its signature combo is turnip cake paired with a choice of fillings, all made fresh in-house. It’s savory and satisfying. There are also other soup options such as chicken liver soup and pork ball soup.

Address: No. 87, Section 2, Sanmin Road, Taichung City (First stall on the right inside the central entrance of the market)
Phone: 04-2224-2318
Business Hours: 07:00 – 18:00


▲ Three Generations Fuzhou Pasta. (Photo / From Taichung City Central District Second Market Facebook)

Three Generations Fuzhou Pasta
The menu includes Fuzhou pasta, Fuzhou fish balls, wontons, various braised items, swordfish balls, shrimp balls, and pork rib soup. The highlight, of course, is the Fuzhou pasta — handmade noodles topped with savory minced pork, bursting with aroma. Pair it with a bowl of wonton soup or a mixed meatball soup for the ultimate experience.

Address: No. 1-7, Section 2, Sanmin Road, Taichung City
Phone: 04-2220-4335
Business hours: 08:00～18:30

Zou Ji Pie
This stall has been passed down to the second generation. The menu is very simple, selling only scallion pancakes, pork pies, beef pies, and leek dumplings.

Address: Entrance of Taichung Second Market (at the intersection of Zhongzheng Road and Sanmin Road)


▲ Yan Ji Meat Buns. (Photo / From Taichung City Central District Second Market Facebook)

Yan Ji Meat Buns
A long-established shop in the Second Market for over 50 years, currently run by the third generation. They only sell meat buns and wonton soup—simple but delicious.

Address: No. 103, Section 2, Sanmin Road, Central District, Taichung City
Phone: 04-2225-3234
Business hours: 08:00～17:30

Mao Chuan Meatballs
Address: No. 401, Section 1, Taiwan Boulevard, Central District, Taichung City
Phone: 04-2227-7477
Business hours: 11:00～19:00