Ningxia Night Market is a bustling nighttime market located in the Datong District of Taipei, Taiwan. Known for its traditional food options and lively atmosphere, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking to experience authentic Taiwanese street food and culture.
Website Ratings:
Google: 4.2/5
TripAdvisor: 4/5
Official Website: Ningxia Night Market (xn--yes-897eo9j.taipei)
Main Positive Reviews:
Variety of Food: A wide range of traditional Taiwanese snacks and dishes, including oyster omelets, taro balls, and stinky tofu.
Atmosphere: Vibrant and lively ambiance with a true local market feel. Affordability: Reasonably priced food and products, offering great value for money.
Convenience: Easily accessible by public transportation, particularly near several MRT stations.
Cleanliness: Despite being a busy night market, many visitors noted that it was relatively clean and well-maintained.
Main Negative Reviews:
Crowded: Can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, making it difficult to navigate.
Seating: Limited seating available, often requiring visitors to eat while standing or walking.
Noise Levels: The market can be quite noisy, which might be overwhelming for some visitors.
Wait Times: Long queues for popular food stalls, requiring patience.
Weather Dependency: Being an outdoor market, the experience can be affected by weather conditions such as rain.
Recommendation:
1. Liu Yu Zi Taro Balls (劉芋仔)
Description: Famous for its crispy taro balls filled with salted egg yolk, these are a must-try for anyone visiting the market.
2. Ah Zong Mian Xian (阿宗麵線)
Description: A popular stall known for its oyster vermicelli soup, which includes vermicelli noodles, oysters, and a rich, flavorful broth.
3. Fried Milk (炸鮮奶)
Description: Cubes of milk pudding that are battered and deep-fried to golden perfection.
4. Pork Liver Soup (豬肝湯)
Description: A hearty soup made with fresh pork liver, known for its rich and nourishing flavor.
5. Grilled Squid (烤魷魚)
Description: Fresh squid that is grilled to perfection and often served with a variety of seasonings and sauces.
6. Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐)
Description: Fermented tofu that is deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage and sauce.
7. Fried Chicken Cutlet (炸雞排)
Description: Large, crispy fried chicken cutlets seasoned with a variety of spices.
8. Pepper Cakes (胡椒餅)
Description: Savory pastries filled with minced pork and green onions, baked in a clay oven.
Overall Analysis
Cost: Approximately NT$100 - NT$300 per person.
Ningxia Night Market is highly regarded for its extensive variety of traditional Taiwanese food, vibrant atmosphere, and affordability. It offers a genuine local experience that appeals to both tourists and locals. However, the market's popularity means it can get very crowded and noisy, with limited seating and long wait times for popular stalls. The weather can also impact the overall experience, as it is an outdoor venue.
Is it Worth Visiting:
Yes, Ningxia Night Market is definitely worth visiting if you want to experience authentic Taiwanese street food and local culture. Its variety of food and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit spot in Taipei. However, be prepared for crowds and potential wait times. If you are willing to navigate these minor inconveniences, you will likely find the market to be a highlight of your trip.