A local’s exclusive favorite—Tainan’s savory pork belly rice and fish ball soup

Text and photos bymimi Han

This major intersection of Datong Road, Fahua Street, and Fulian Road is also a hub for Tainan street food. Though there may not be many attractions nearby, and almost no tourists ever make it here, that also makes it a great spot for locals to grab a bite. Among the options, this place—Guorong Pork Belly Rice—is absolutely delicious. Just walk in, order a bowl of pork belly rice, some simple side dishes, or a bowl of fish ball soup, and you’ve got a super authentic meal. Up~

There’s no proper storefront—just a triangular lot at the junction of two roads with a makeshift metal shack serving as the kitchen. Even the tables and chairs look like a random hodgepodge: office desks, old square tables, newer-looking white metal tables… but somehow it all adds to the charm, XD

Aside from the signature pork belly rice, there are several other side dishes to choose from. The selection isn’t as extensive as at Futaifood tables, but it’s more than enough to fill you up.

At these kinds of local spots, not only is the boss super friendly, but the prices are incredibly reasonable too. The most expensive dish—the fish maw soup—is only NT$70, and the pork belly rice is just NT$15.

I ordered pork belly rice, fish ball soup, fish skin soup, and a marinated egg—pretty simple lunchtime snacks. Sometimes I eat lightly at noon and get starving by 4pm, so if I don’t eat something, I won’t make it to dinner.<"

BTW, if you’re a fan of fatty pork belly, you’ll absolutely love this bowl—it’s so tender, rich, and velvety!! And the aroma is totally irresistible. After mixing, the meat juice soaks right into the white rice. If I didn’t restrain myself, it’d be totally normal to polish off two bowls in one go. Absolutely delicious. Though I remember they used to put cilantro in it—I’m not sure why they didn’t this time, but I didn’t think to ask either.

Both shredded squid skin and fish ball soup are common Tainan street food choices. For just NT$20, this bowl of fish ball soup even comes loaded with crullers and diced chives—so good~ The squid skin is fresh and tender, and with a few slivers of ginger, it pairs perfectly with the pork belly rice.

The shop isn’t much to look at, but the aroma of the pork belly rice is simply irresistible—it’s the kind of deliciousness that makes you want to come back again and again. Even though it’s a bit far from my usual stomping grounds, I still make special trips here now and then. Next time you’re craving local specialties, why not swing by Guorong Pork Belly Rice?

Guorong Pork Belly Rice
Address: No. 142, Section 1, Datong Road, West Central District, Tainan City
Open: 11:00 AM – Late (closes when sold out)

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