Hidden gourmet gems at the South Airport Night Market – the must-visit list for foodies

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family, compiled and reported
 
At the South Airport Night Market in Taipei’s West District, there’s long been a legend: poorly tasting eateries basically can’t survive here. Within just a few steps, you'll come across a 30-year-old establishment, and the next corner over might be another bustling food spot. Here, if you don’t want to queue, you won’t get to eat.

1. Keelung Oden Mixed with Taiyaki
The oden stall that’s always packed at the South Airport Night Market – the few tables out front are always occupied. It’s affordable and delicious, with a big plate available for just NT$100. In addition to the basics like oden, daikon, and bitter melon pockets, there are also less common items such as fried dumplings, rice sausages, and dragon-phoenix legs. All are dipped in a uniquely sweet-and-salty sauce, making it quite different from your typical oden.

2. Changhua Rice Balls
This handmade, self-made, and self-sold Changhua rice ball has been a bestseller for 30 years. From making the outer skin with sweet potato starch, selecting fillings, to frying them in oil — everything is done by the boss and his wife. They only sell for two hours a day, with a limit of 300 pieces. Once sold out, the stall is gone. You can't find it during off-hours. To taste this internationally renowned Taiwanese gem, be prepared to wait about 30 minutes in line. It's available for dine-in or takeout.

3. Badong Round Dumpling Soup
Badong Round Dumpling Soup has stood firm in the South Airport Night Market for at least 20 years. Its standout offerings are the wine lees dumplings and longan sticky rice porridge. The glutinous rice here is cooked until soft and tender, and when paired with energy-boosting longan, it's suitable for any season, summer or winter. Additionally, the wine lees sesame balls with egg are a fan favorite — almost a must-order dessert for every customer. The purple rice wine lees flavor is enchanting, not harsh or pungent like regular wine lees, but mild and sweet, leaving a memorable taste.

4. Shan-nai Chicken
Located right at the entrance of the South Airport Night Market, Shan-nai Chicken is always bustling in the evenings. The chicken here has crispy skin and tender meat, with generous portions — truly great value. The shop closes at irregular times, and if you want to order chicken legs, it’s best to arrive before 8 PM to have a chance of getting some.