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Wondering where Keelung locals go for a great breakfast? The following hidden gems have been local favorites since childhood—these eateries may not be on every tourist’s radar, but they still attract long lines of loyal fans. Read on to find out which Keelung breakfast spots are must-tries, and don’t miss our fun “hidden approach” that starts in the middle of the night!

Keelung Local Breakfast: Ren’ai Market Sashimi

If you’re an adventurous foodie looking for an unusual experience, start your day in the wee hours of the morning! The Ren’ai Market fish market in Keelung typically kicks off around 3:00–4:00 AM, right when fishing boats return with the day’s fresh catch. As vendors set up stalls, you can buy ultra-fresh seafood—or, if you’re a night owl, dig into some sashimi made from fish that just arrived onshore. You’ll find multiple stalls selling sashimi in the market, all guaranteed fresh. Simply pick the one that catches your eye, and enjoy!

Keelung Local Breakfast: Zhou’s Scallion Pancake

Among the most famous breakfast spots in town, Zhou Family Scallion Pancakes is a can’t-miss stop. They offer a wide range of breakfast items and are known for their aromatic, freshly made soy milk—ground and cooked daily for that authentic beany flavor. Their “scallion pancakes” are not what you might expect; they’re grilled fresh each day, and you can add an egg to transform it into a “dan bing” (egg wrap). Don’t worry if you order an egg wrap and it looks different from typical Taiwanese versions—this is just their special style!

Business Hours: 04:30–12:30 (Closed Mondays)

Keelung Local Breakfast: Far East Lai’s Shui Jian Bao

They can’t make these pan-fried pork buns fast enough to meet demand—sometimes four pans at once aren’t enough! A star in the Keelung breakfast scene, Far East Lai’s Shui Jian Bao wins over diners with their thin wrapper and generous fillings. The buns are pan-fried to a golden crisp, delivering a pleasant crunch. The filling remains juicy yet not greasy, offering multiple layers of taste and texture. Each bun is conveniently sized, making it easy to eat on the go. Affordable, tasty, and immensely satisfying—what more could you ask for?

Business Hours: 05:30–18:00

Keelung Local Breakfast: Jinyu Salty Rice Porridge

Another cherished local breakfast spot in Keelung, Jinyu Salty Rice Porridge (sometimes called xián zhōu) is a true classic. Their signature dish draws crowds with its unique flavor. You’ll see fresh shrimp, oysters, and other seafood lined up in the preparation area. The broth is simmered with dried shrimp, dried fish, and fried shallots, creating a rich, savory base. Topped with chopped celery, the porridge is both comforting and full of flavor. Pairing the smooth texture with fresh seafood equals pure breakfast bliss!

Business Hours: 06:30–14:30 (Closed Thursdays)

Keelung Local Breakfast: A-Xi Rice Vermicelli Soup

Right next door to Jinyu Salty Rice Porridge is A-Xi Rice Vermicelli Soup, a budget-friendly spot offering hearty bowls of thin rice noodles in a pork bone broth. They also serve a wide variety of side dishes—known as “black and white platters”—like dry noodles, jīgúlā (fish paste rolls), pork belly, and their noteworthy fried fish balls. This is the perfect place to bring a group of friends and sample a bit of everything. You can easily go back and forth between this spot and Jinyu Salty Rice Porridge for a double breakfast treat!

Business Hours: 06:30–14:30 (Closed Thursdays)

Keelung Local Breakfast: Dong Lin Pan-Fried Dumplings

Tucked away in a small alley, Dong Lin Pan-Fried Dumplings is easy to miss—but once you try them, you’ll understand why customers keep coming back. The menu focuses on just one item: perfectly pan-fried dumplings. Other items, like their hot and sour soup or black tea, merely play supporting roles. Dong Lin’s dumplings feature a golden, crispy exterior that’s thin but not tough. Inside, you’ll taste fresh, juicy pork and veggies; while they don’t exactly “burst” with soup, they can still be quite hot—be careful when you bite in! Watching the team’s well-practiced workflow—from prepping the filling to nonstop pan-frying—shows just how popular these dumplings are.

Business Hours: 07:30–13:00

Keelung Local Breakfast: Keelung Pig Liver Sausage

A real Keelung specialty, pig liver sausage may look like an ordinary sausage, but the flavor is entirely different! Made with minced liver, pork, and seasonings, it has a distinct liver taste and a tender, silky texture—best suited for those who don’t mind a stronger offal flavor. Once roasted or grilled, it takes on a tempting smoky aroma, especially tasty with the shop’s homemade chili sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, add this unique delicacy to your Keelung food itinerary!

Business Hours: 08:00–17:00

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