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The 7 Best Restaurants in Hualien, Taiwan

Delicious dishes at i Oven
Delicious dishes at i Oven | Courtesy of i Oven

Planning a trip to Taroko Gorge and have some time to spend in Hualien? Or perhaps you live there and fancy trying out a new restaurant. Either way, you’re spoiled for choice in this coastal city where the local restaurant industry is enjoying a bit of a boom. From oven baked pizza to local dishes, it’s all on the menu at our pick of the seven best restaurants in Hualien City.

i Oven

Restaurant, Italian, European

Straight from the oven
Courtesy of i Oven

Now if you like real pizza from a wood-fired oven, then this should be your first port of call during your time in Hualien. The pizza is out of this world and there are plenty of tasty toppings to choose from. They also make some European style bread but you really need to time your visit carefully. The place is only open two days a week but despite this it is still one of the most popular restaurants in the city.

Dos Tacos

Restaurant, Mexican

A Mexican feast at Dos Tacos
Courtesy of Dos Tacos

There was a time not so long ago that you’d never find Mexican food in Hualien. Thankfully, Dos Tacos opened and now residents of the city can enjoy some incredibly tasty Mexican dishes in this highly recommended restaurant. In fact, this place is so popular that you’ll probably need to make a reservation. Call ahead to avoid disappointment!

Three Koalas

Restaurant, Australian, American

Sweet delights at Three Koalas
Courtesy of Three Koalas

Three Koalas is an Australian-run restaurant (surprise, surprise) that is as big on value as it is on taste. The owners try their best to ensure that not only do you get a great choice of international cuisine but that it’s also as affordable as possible. From risotto to pizza, there’s something for all western food lovers at this cozy little restaurant.

Furutsu

Restaurant, Japanese

Preparing todays catch
Courtesy of Furutsu

There are many places in Hualien where you can find Japanese style dishes but none can match the pure authenticity of the food served here. There’s a great menu and although the staff speak limited English they really do try their best to guide their foreign customers through the menu. The food is incredibly fresh and if you’re looking for sashimi in Hualien, then look no further.

Boom Burger

Restaurant, American

Boom! Now thats a burger
Courtesy of Boom Burger
Burgers in Taiwan are usually reserved for breakfast so it’s nice to see that a good burger joint has opened in Hualien. The menu is not just limited to burgers with pizza and a few other items to choose from. But let’s face it, you’re here for the burgers and you won’t be disappointed. Succulent and with just the right condiments, you’ve hit the jackpot at this place.

Salt Lick BBQ

Restaurant, American

So you like your barbecue but you’re struggling to find a decent spot in Hualien? Well, struggle no more. The uniquely named Salt Lick restaurant is the best place in the city for tasty ribs. The staff are super helpful and there’s a real friendly vibe about the place. Add to that the incredible apple pie and a fridge stacked with beers and you’ve got yourself the perfect spot for a great evening meal.

He Jia Huan

Restaurant, Asian, Taiwanese

For a real taste of local cuisine there’s no better place than He Jia Huan. Here you’ll find seriously good home cooked meals that include all the usual Taiwanese classics. From steamed dumplings to fried rice, all the best local dishes are on the menu and even better, they’re all cooked fresh to order.

About the author

An Irishman living in Taiwan since 2003. I used to teach but now I write words for a living and by some fluke of nature, people actually read them.

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