Visiting New Taipei Christmas Town isn't enough—don’t miss these five must-try nearby delicacies

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Editorial Team

New Taipei City's Happy Christmas Town officially lit up at the "Christmas Town Opening Show" on November 24. Even during the test lighting, it had already drawn gasps of amazement from surrounding visitors. With themed music and twinkling city lights, the area was already filled with Christmas atmosphere. In addition to enjoying the light shows and performances, don’t miss the food spots around the city hall. Below are five recommended restaurants in the area from Banqiao Station to the City Hall Plaza—perfect for adding to your list.

1. Liu Biju Chaoshan Claypot Porridge
Liu Biju is Taiwan’s first claypot porridge specialty store, bringing authentic Chaoshan-style claypot porridge from inland China to Taiwan. Chaoshan claypot porridge is a savory porridge cooked exclusively in a clay pot. The porridge itself is the main ingredient. Since the Chaoshan region is coastal, seafood is abundant, and it is often used as the base for the porridge, along with unique seasonings from Chaoshan cuisine, giving it a distinctive style that is popular across the country.
 
Main Branch (Zhongshan Road): No. 160-3, Section 1, Zhongshan Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City
Minquan Branch: No. 3, Minquan Road, Banqiao District, New Taipei City

2. Merci Cafe

Merci café takes its name from the French word for “thank you,” as a gesture of gratitude to every customer. The shop insists on using fresh fruits and vegetables for its salads and homemade yogurt, served in well-portioned dishes to ensure a healthy, guilt-free meal.

The interior of the café has a distinctive style, blending vintage elements with modern dried flower decorations and plenty of antique furniture, creating a calm, refined, and minimalist atmosphere. It’s not only a popular local café and brunch spot but also attracts many customers from other cities.

 
Address: No. 17, Lane 7, Xinmin Street, Banqiao District, New Taipei City
Business Hours: 09:00 - 21:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)