Recommended by locals and netizens alike: Top 5 nostalgic desserts in Taichung you can't miss

▲ The creative almond tea in the middle, paired with the shop’s braised dishes and youtiao (fried dough sticks), is really warming. (Photo / Reposted fromSānshí Cháfáng fan page)

Travel Center / Comprehensive report

Taichung is home to many sweet treats, but the most popular are undoubtedly famous local specialties like sun cakes and pineapple cakes. In fact, there are still plenty of retro-flavored sweets in the city. ETtoday News Cloud has specially compiled a list of the top 5 must-try nostalgic desserts in Taichung. Don’t forget to give them a try on your next trip to Taichung!

▲ A generous pile of pineapple on top of ice delivers a tangy-sweet taste that leaves a deep impression on locals. (Photo / Reposted from?Hǎo Xīntiān Tiantiān Dōu Měihǎo fan page)

1. ?Hǎo: Pineapple Ice
The pineapple ice here uses pineapples that are half tart and half sweet, carefully simmered and then paired with an ice base that has a faint hint of cane sugar. What customers get is the fresh, fruity sweetness of the fruit itself—not the cloying sweetness of syrup. The shop also generously piles thick slices of fruit on top of the ice so every bite includes pineapple. Its sweet-and-sour flavor has earned unanimous praise from locals.

?Hǎo Pineapple Ice
Address: No. 256, Xiangshang North Road, West District, Taichung City
Phone: 04-2305-0058
Business hours: 11:00 AM ~ until sold out (irregular holidays, announced on the fan page)

▲ The rich signature almond tea (right photo), and almond tofu drizzled with pineapple jam (left photo). (Photo / Reposted fromSānshí Cháfáng fan page)

2. Sānshí Cháfáng: Almond Tea + Almond Tofu
Nestled in a narrow alley, Sānshí Cháfáng specializes in almond-based treats. The shop doesn’t use any artificial flavorings, instead employing traditional methods to slowly simmer almond slices and brown rice. The signature almond tea not only boasts a rich aroma but also warms the hearts of many. In addition, the shop’s almond tofu is another highlight—silky smooth with various creative toppings that are both delicious and fun.

Sānshí Cháfáng
Address: No. 11, Lane 107, Taiping Road, North District, Taichung City
Phone: 04-2225-1930
Business hours: Weekdays 12:00 PM ~ 8:00 PM / Holidays 9:00 AM ~ 8:00 PM

▲ In addition to the signature original and cheese flavors, the shop also introduces seasonal limited-edition fruit flavors. (Photo / Reposted from【Hóngtǔ Qiūlíng】 Tǔ Fènglí Sū | Zhēnxīn Yùní Qiú fan page)

3. Hóngtǔ Qiūlíng: Zhēnxīn Yùní Qiú (Honest Taro Balls)
Although Hóngtǔ Qiūlíng doesn’t have a physical store yet and is only available online, it has already gained immense popularity on the web. Its signature taro balls are generously made, featuring a subtle taro aroma and a dense, smooth texture that has won over countless online reviewers. Since no chemical additives are used, the product has a shelf life of just three days.

At the same time, the shop also offers limited-edition taro balls in seasonal fruit flavors, such as strawberry, mango, and kiwi. Fans also highly recommend the cheese flavor—taros balls stuffed with rich cheese that melt in your mouth as soon as you bite into them.

Red Clay Hills
Address: No. 3, Lane 129, Section 1, Liaoning Road, Beitun District, Taichung City
Phone: 0920-880-887

▲Signature Sesame Balls (left photo), Brown Sugar Sesame Balls (right photo). (Photo / Reposted fromTaichung Li Ji Caotun Sesame Balls)

4. Li Ji Sesame Balls: Signature & Brown Sugar Varieties
Unlike regular sesame balls, the highlight here is the chewy taro filling inside the crispy shell. The exterior is crispy, while the inside has a soft and fluffy texture with rich taro flavor. The chewiness is just right—not too sticky—and the taro aroma is strong. There’s also a layer of creamy black sesame paste in the center, which adds an extra layer of richness. Although it doesn’t come with ice cream, the sweet and savory combination is delicious on its own.

Li Ji Sesame Balls Address: No. 399, Section 1, Xitun Road, North District, Taichung City
Phone: 04-23239172
Business Hours: 9:00～22:00


▲Colorful Layered Taro Balls and Assorted Traditional Desserts. (Photo / Reposted fromNew Frozen Tender Grass Jelly Fan Page)


5. New Frozen Tender Grass Jelly: Grass Jelly + Fruit Popsicles
Located in the Dakeng Scenic Area, New Frozen Tender Grass Jelly uses an old-fashioned traditional method, boiling grass jelly over firewood for over 12 hours to create a smooth and tender texture. The shop insists on not using alkaline powder, ensuring food safety for customers. They also sell popular fruit popsicles that come in five different flavors distinguished by color, offering a refreshing treat for visitors during the hot summer months.

New Frozen Tender Grass Jelly
Address: No. 34, Section 2, Dongshan Road, Beitun District, Taichung City
Phone: 04-2439-2861
Business Hours: 10:00 ～21:00