Eastern Taiwan: Breathtaking Coastal Views & Top 10 Must-Try Foods in a Handy Guide

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

The Eastern Taiwan region, blessed with a long and narrow coastline, is best known for its majestic ocean views. But beyond the scenery, the urban areas also hide many culinary gems worth exploring, including popular snacks, restaurants, night markets, and more—so why not combine nature sightseeing with a food adventure?

1. Hualien Country Mother's
Located on Meilun Street in Hualien, Country Mother's is a popular local eatery famous for its queue-worthy reputation. It specializes in authentic American cuisine, with every element—from sauces and bread to the dishes themselves—made by hand. Menu items include omelets, eggs Benedict, sandwiches, handmade bagels, pancakes, French toast, wraps, as well as homemade bread and seasoned fries.
 
Address: No. 34, Fuqian Rd., Hualien City, Hualien County

2. Hualien – Gongzheng Baozi
Gongzheng Baozi, located on Gongzheng Street in downtown Hualien, serves buns that are handmade and freshly wrapped on-site. The dough is fragrant and chewy, while the fillings are sweet and savory. In addition to the must-try xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), their steamed dumplings are also highly recommended.
 
Address: No. 199-2, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City, Hualien County

3. Hualien – Ye Xiang Bian Shi
With over 80 years of history, Ye Xiang Bian Shi has been passed down through four generations, even attracting former President Chiang Ching-kuo on multiple visits. The wontons are handmade fresh daily—each wrapper is thin yet has three delicate layers, the filling uses premium thigh meat for ideal texture, and the broth is slow-simmered from pork bones.
 
Address: No. 42, Xinyi Street, Hualien City, Hualien County

4. Hualien – Classic Fried Egg Scallion Pancake
A Hualien specialty, the classic fried egg scallion pancake has been delighting locals for nearly 50 years. Made with handmade dough to preserve its traditional taste, the pancake is crispy on the outside with a golden-brown crust. Take a bite and you'll experience the rich yolk filling bursting with flavor.
 
Address: No. 2, Lane 110, Fuxing Street, Hualien City, Hualien County