Affordable Pocket-Friendly Eats: Six Must-Try Popular Meat Buns Across Taiwan

By MOOK Scenic Spots Wu Pin-xuan, compiled and reported

Whether as a main meal or an afternoon snack, a hot, juicy meat bun is definitely a beloved affordable treat. But with so many bun shops on the streets, which one should you choose? Here’s a list of six must-try delicious meat buns across Taiwan—covering the north, central, south, and east regions. Not only can you enjoy local flavors, but the prices are also very budget-friendly, ensuring you’ll leave happy and satisfied.

Gongzheng Buns

When in Hualien, you absolutely can’t miss the famous “Gongzheng Bun Shop.” The texture is like that of “giant xiaolongbao,” and the marinated meat filling makes the buns even more fragrant and delicious. Each bun costs just NT$5—great value—and is a must-try delicacy for every visitor to Hualien.

【Info】】
Gongzheng Buns
Address: No. 199-2, Zhongshan Rd., Hualien City
Phone: 03 834 2933
Hours: 6:00–20:30
 

Ke Lin Taiwanese Buns

Located near the Confucius Temple in Tainan, Ke Lin Taiwanese Buns’ bestseller, the Eight-Treasure Meat Bun, features a filling made from a blend of pork shoulder and pork belly, along with green onions and egg yolks, resulting in a deliciously savory and juicy taste. Made entirely by hand, the buns are generously stuffed, not greasy at all, and offer a flavor rating of 100%.

【Info】】
Ke Lin Taiwanese Buns
Address: No. 218, Section 1, Fuzhong Rd., Tainan City
Phone: 06 222 2257
Hours: 8:00–21:30
 

Minxiong Meat Buns

The large sign reading “Minxiong Meat Buns” is practically a landmark of Chiayi. The popular “Egg Yolk Minxiong Meat Bun” hides a sun-like egg yolk inside; the salty, sandy texture of the yolk pairs perfectly with the lean meat and dried bamboo shoot filling, creating a particularly satisfying flavor with absolutely no meaty aftertaste.

【Info】】
Minxiong Meat Buns
Address: No. 171, Section 1, Jianguo Rd., Minxiong Township, Chiayi County
Phone: 05 226 7323
Hours: 24 hours
 

Black Cat Buns

The Black Cat Buns that squirt juice out when you bite into them！Located on Beimen Old Street in front of Hsinchu City’s Chenghuang Temple, the Black Cat Buns shop has a history of over 100 years and has been passed down through five generations. The outer crust is made from traditional old dough, and the filling uses carefully selected black pork — the fat is braised for three hours before being mixed with lean meat, creating a truly unique flavor.