Why Hong Kong Food Has a Special Place in Taiwan’s Heart

Why Hong Kong Food Has a Special Place in Taiwan’s Heart

I’ve lived in Taiwan for a few years now, and one thing I’ve noticed—aside from the endless bubble tea options and the late-night fried chicken stalls—is how much love there is for Hong Kong-style food. Whether it’s a cozy cha chaan teng tucked into a side street in Taipei or a bustling dim sum spot in Taichung, Hong Kong flavors have carved out a loyal following here.

And honestly? I get it. There’s something about the way Hong Kong food balances comfort, richness, and nostalgia that just clicks with Taiwanese taste buds.

Dim sum is a social experience  

In Taiwan, food is rarely just about eating—it’s about gathering. Dim sum fits perfectly into that culture. Families and friends love sitting around a table with bamboo steamers stacked high, sharing bite-sized dishes like siu mai, har gow, and turnip cake. It’s casual, communal, and endlessly customizable. Plus, many Taiwanese grew up visiting Hong Kong or watching Cantonese dramas, so dim sum feels familiar and comforting.

Cha chaan teng vibes hit different  

Hong Kong-style diners (cha chaan teng) are popping up all over Taiwan, and they’re more than just trendy. Locals love the mix of East-meets-West dishes—think macaroni soup with ham, baked pork chop rice, or milk tea with condensed milk. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and surprisingly satisfying. Taiwanese diners appreciate the fast-paced, no-frills vibe, especially when paired with a strong cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea.

Flavorful but not overwhelming  

Taiwanese cuisine tends to be subtle and balanced, but there’s a growing appetite for more intense flavors. Hong Kong food brings that—without going overboard. The soy-based sauces, roasted meats, and slightly sweet-savory combos like char siu appeal to locals who want something richer than a typical Taiwanese lunchbox, but not as heavy as Sichuan spice bombs.

Cultural connection and curiosity  

There’s a deep cultural link between Taiwan and Hong Kong, especially among older generations who remember the golden age of Hong Kong cinema or pop music. Eating Hong Kong food is a way to reconnect with that era. For younger Taiwanese, it’s also about curiosity—trying something that feels both familiar and foreign. It’s not uncommon to hear someone say, “This reminds me of my trip to Kowloon,” while sipping lemon Coke at a cha chaan teng.

It’s just really good  

Let’s be real: Hong Kong food is delicious. Roast goose, egg tarts, pineapple buns with butter—these aren’t just gimmicks. They’re well-crafted, satisfying dishes that hit all the right notes. Taiwanese people know good food when they taste it, and Hong Kong cuisine delivers. Whether it’s a high-end dim sum restaurant or a hole-in-the-wall diner, the flavors are layered, the textures are spot-on, and the experience feels special.

Final thoughts  

Taiwan’s food scene is already one of the most diverse in Asia, but the love for Hong Kong-style eats adds another layer. It’s not just about importing dishes—it’s about embracing a shared culinary language. And as someone who’s tasted both sides, I can say: when Hong Kong flavors meet Taiwanese hospitality, it’s a match made in food heaven.