Exploring the Traditional "Old-Taste" Shuanglian Market in Zhongshan Taipei 50-Year-Old Savory Tangyuan and 35-Minute Wait for Hearty Spring Rolls

Shuanglian Market: Traditional Outdoor Market Showing Taiwan Food Culture

Shuanglian Market is a traditional outdoor market with nearly a century of history, operating only in the mornings. The market is relatively small, about 300 meters long.

In recent years, deep cultural immersion has become popular among travelers, and what better way to experience a place than by visiting its market? Shuanglian Market, also known as Shuanglian Vegetable Market, has retained its traditional charm since the Japanese occupation. The market is relatively small, about 300 meters long, primarily selling local produce and fresh meats, with a few stalls offering local cooked dishes. The stalls are arranged neatly on both sides, leaving a walkway in the middle, creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors are drawn not only by the authentic Taiwanese culture but also by the nearby Taipei Wenchang Temple, a hub of local spirituality. Additionally, many renowned Taiwanese food writers frequently highlight the culinary delights of the Shuanglian area, further attracting food lovers and tourists.

Visitors are drawn not only by the authentic Taiwanese culture but also by the nearby Taipei Wenchang Temple, a hub of local spirituality.

Shuanglian Market

Address: No.5-1,Lane 45, Minsheng West Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei

Opening Hours: about 07:00—14:30

Transportation: Shuanglian MRT Station Exit 1 and walk around 5-10 minutes

50-Year-Old Yanshan Tangyuan: Savory Tangyuan filled with Pork and Pork Liver

Yanshan Tangyuan operates from a cart filled with various meats and side dishes.

During the Mid-Autumn Festival and Winter Solstice, many Chinese enjoy tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) for their symbolism of reunion. Within the alleys of Shuanglian, Yanshan Tangyuan has been serving locals for nearly 50 years and is a popular breakfast spot. Their menu features savory tangyuan, pork belly, dry noodles, and rice with lard, all priced reasonably under 100 NTD. The shop operates from a cart filled with various meats and side dishes, along with a large pot for boiling. A bowl of savory tangyuan (65 NTD) comes with five glutinous rice balls, which are soft and chewy, filled with pork and pork liver seasoned with soy sauce. The overall flavor is savory and satisfying. For those who enjoy offal, they can add pork liver for a fresh and tender taste.

Savory Tangyuan (65 NTD)

Yanshan Tangyuan

Address: No. 12, Alley 9, Lane 45, Minsheng West Road, Taipei

Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/%E7%87%95%E5%B1%B1%E6%B9%AF%E5%9C%93-100067128767085/

Jian Guo Spring Roll: Always Long Queue Consisting of Local Residents

The shop owner quietly wrapped the spring rolls.

When it comes to Taiwanese snacks, many think of lu rou fan (braised pork rice), egg pancakes, and crispy fried chicken. If you're looking for something new, try the "Jian Guo Spring Roll" next to Shuanglian Market. This well-known eatery often sees long lines, primarily consisting of local residents, indicating its excellent reputation. The shop offers hearty spring rolls filled with ingredients like curried cabbage, bean sprouts, braised pork, shredded egg, cilantro, and peanut powder, all wrapped in layers of spring roll skin. Many customers buy three or four at a time, which explains the 35-minute wait even at 10 AM! The spring rolls burst with flavor, highlighted by the aromatic spices of the curried vegetables, creating a rich and appetizing experience. While spring rolls are less common in Hong Kong, they are worth trying if you're interested.

Customers need to queue for 35 minutes even at 10 AM!

Hearty spring rolls wrapped in layers of spring roll skin. Hearty spring rolls filled with different ingredients.

Jian Guo Spring Roll （建國潤餅）

Address: No. 11, Alley 3, Lane 45, Minsheng West Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei

Telephone: +886 2 2522 4266

Opening Hours: 07:00—Sold Out ( Close on Sat, Sun and public holiday)

Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/%E5%BB%BA%E5%9C%8B%E6%BD%A4%E9%A4%85-100063771712062/