This is what breakfast looks like for the people of Tainan: 7 must-try savory porridges in Tainan

Travel Center / Compiled Report

When it comes to breakfast, many people’s first thought is Western-style burgers or toast, or Chinese classics like shaobing (Chinese sesame flatbread) and youtiao (fried dough sticks). But for the people of Tainan, breakfast should definitely be savory porridge and minced pork rice—savory porridge has even become one of Tainan’s iconic local dishes.ETtoday EBC News Cloudhas curated a list of 7 must-try savory porridges in Tainan that will completely transform your idea of porridge and make you realize just how lucky it is to be a Tainan local.

▲ A-Han Savory Porridge. (Photo / Viviyu)

1. A-Han Savory Porridge
Ranked among Tainan’s top three savory porridges, A-Han Savory Porridge lets you enjoy the essence of an entire milkfish in one bowl. Their signature milkfish porridge features a whole boneless milkfish simmered in broth, with oysters added to enhance the umami richness. With every bite of the rice grains in the porridge, the savory juice bursts forth, perfectly complementing the tender milkfish meat. Both the broth and fish are inseparable from the milkfish theme—no wonder it’s called a porridge where you can taste the essence. If you prefer something drier, their savory fish congee rice is appetizing and filling, making it another great choice.

Address: No. 169, Gongyuan South Road, Tainan City
Phone: (06)221-8669
Business Hours: Monday to Sunday, 06:10–22:00

▲ Wang’s Fish Skin

2. Wang’s Fish Skin
Just by looking at the name, you’d probably think this is a stir-fry eatery—but it’s actually a legit savory porridge spot. What makes it special is its variety of soup options that cater to soup lovers. The crispy fish porridge is a must-try—crispy fried fish combined with savory porridge will give you a whole new perspective on this dish. And of course, don’t miss the mixed savory porridge, where fish, oysters, and crispy fish float on the surface, making your mouth water before you even take a bite. The sweet and savory flavors burst as you eat, and pairing it with a bowl of milkfish soup makes for a breakfast that’s almost too luxurious.

Address: No. 612, Anping Road, Anping District, Tainan City
Phone: (06)228-8095
Business Hours: Monday to Sunday, 04:00–14:00 (until 14:30 on holidays)

▲ Nameless Savory Porridge on Dayong Street. (Photo / Reporter Huang Shengmin)

3. Nameless Savory Porridge on Dayong Street
This unassuming savory porridge spot on Dayong Street is actually located near the famous Liulian Beef Soup. After enjoying a bowl of beef soup, visitors can come here to savor the beauty of Tainan’s savory porridge. Out-of-towners will be amazed by the incredibly good value for money. Of course, don’t forget the star of the show—the savory porridge. Though called “savory porridge,” the sweet and savory broth is so delicious that you’ll forget you’re even eating porridge. Aside from the porridge, the minced pork rice here is another highlight, with an aroma so enticing you won’t be able to stop at just one bowl. Paired with flavorful fried tofu and marinated eggs, you might just start regretting that you don’t live in Tainan.

Address: No. 83, Dayong Street, West Central District, Tainan City
Business Hours: Monday to Sunday, 05:00–13:00
Note: Closes when the market closes

▲ A-Tang Savory Porridge. (Photo / Provided by Era Publishing)

4. A-Tang Savory Porridge
A-Tang Savory Porridge is one of Tainan’s top three savory porridges, and it comes with equally high renown. What’s special about its mixed savory porridge is that the fish is pan-fried beforehand, adding an extra layer of fragrance to the broth beyond just the umami. The porridge itself isn’t heavily seasoned—it relies entirely on the broth and ingredients to shine, yet that’s precisely what makes this bowl of porridge so enchanting. It’s no wonder this is one of Tainan’s most popular savory porridges—truly well-deserved.

Address: No. 728, Section 1, Ximen Road, Tainan City
Phone: (06)213-2572
Business Hours: Monday to Sunday, 05:00–12:00 (closed on Tuesdays)

5. Ah Xing Savory Congee
This Ah Xing Savory Congee has been a local institution in Tainan for over fifty years. Even locals have to queue up for this classic spot. The owner insists on using brackish water milkfish, which reduces the fishy taste of the milkfish itself and enhances the flavor. Their milkfish congee also comes with a special dipping sauce, making it quite unique. The generous toppings are sure to wow you as soon as it’s served. And don’t worry about fish bones—there’s someone on hand to remove them so you can enjoy the deliciousness of the milkfish with peace of mind. It’s truly thoughtful service.

Address: No. 289, Section 3, Minzu Road, West Central District, Tainan City
Phone: (06)220-0941
Business Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 06:00–13:00

▲ Yuejin Savory Congee. (Photo / Gui Xiaosun)

6. Yuejin Savory Congee
If you suddenly crave savory congee, Yuejin Savory Congee will definitely not disappoint—it’s open 24 hours a day, so you can enjoy its deliciousness at any time. It’s also known as one of Tainan’s “Three Great Savory Congees.” Once the fish congee arrives at your table, its rich aroma fills the air. As you take each bite, you can taste how ingredients like milkfish slices are elevated in flavor by the broth, creating an even more intense umami experience. Paired with rice, it’s both filling and delicious. They also offer shrimp rice here, so you can sample a wide range of local snacks all in one place.

Address: No. 332, Section 2, Ximen Road, West Central District, Tainan City
Phone: (06)222-8490
Business Hours: 24 hours

▲ Ah Zhong Fish Congee. (Photo / Orange Dog Loves Candy)

7. Ah Zhong Fish Congee
Ah Zhong Fish Congee may look ordinary from the outside, but it hides a simple yet delicious charm inside. The owner personally goes to the fish market every day to select the freshest ingredients, ensuring customers get only the best. Their signature Mixed Fish Congee is made with a broth that uses fish bone stock. The thickhead fish, milkfish slices, and oysters inside are not only plump but also burst with a rich umami flavor. Eating it with rice and broth gives you a full sense of comfort and happiness. The garlic pork fried rice here is also a must-try dish. Made with a variety of spices and fish bone stock, each grain of rice is distinct and carries a fragrant hint of garlic—a taste you won’t forget.

Address: No. 262, Section 2, Minzu Road, West Central District, Tainan City
Business Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 17:00–23:00