Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The most important thing to remember in Taiwan when it comes to food is that some
of the best eats are found on the street - gourmands know that some of Asia's best street
eats are found in night markets in and around Taiwan's cities.
Bars often keep long hours in Taiwan, opening in the afternoon and closing late at
night. Most bars offer a limited menu, while some offer full-course meals. Expect to pay
around NT$150 or more for a beer.
For a list of menu items,
Click here
.
Etiquette for Dining Out
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In restaurants, every customer gets an individual bowl of rice or a small soup bowl. It is
quite acceptable to hold the bowl close to your lips and shovel the contents into your
mouth with your chopsticks. If the food contains bones, just place them on the tablecloth
(it's changed after each meal), or into a separate bowl if one is provided.
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Remember to fill your neighbours' teacups when they are empty, as yours will be filled
by them. You can thank the pourer by tapping your middle finger on the table gently. On
no account should you serve yourself tea without serving others first. When your teapot
needs a refill, signal this to the wait staff by taking the lid off the pot.
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Taiwanese toothpick etiquette is similar to that of neighbouring Asian countries: one
hand wields the toothpick while the other shields the mouth from prying eyes.
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Probably the most important piece of etiquette comes with the bill: although you are ex-
pected to try to pay, you shouldn't argue too hard, as the one who extended the invitation
will inevitably foot the bill. While splitting the cost of the meal is fashionable among the
younger generation, as a guest you'll probably be treated most of the time.
