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Taiwan ain’t just bubble tea and beef noodles, we got some wild international eats too! Everyone knows you can find Japanese, Korean, Thai, and American food all over the island, but what about the underrated spots? This time, we’re bringing you some fire international flavors you probably never thought about. Argentinian BBQ, Middle Eastern kebabs, legit Indonesian dishes, and more—let’s get into it!

Hidden International Flavors In Taiwan

Mamak檔 – Malaysian & Indian Street Food

If you’ve been craving some bomb Southeast Asian flavors, Mamak檔 is where it’s at. This spot is all about authentic Malaysian & Indian eats, serving up dishes that smack you with spice, coconut, and deep, rich flavors.

Must-Try Dishes:

Cheese & Beef Roti – Crispy on the outside, soft inside, stuffed with seasoned beef and melted cheese. A straight-up flavor bomb!

Nasi Lemak Fried Chicken – The name might sound scary (“Spicy Mother Fried Chicken” in Malay), but it’s not even that spicy. Think coconut rice, crispy chicken, and sambal sauce all working together like magic.

Teh Tarik (Pulled Milk Tea) – A Malaysian classic—smooth, creamy, and slightly frothy, brewed with Sri Lankan, Kenyan, and Indonesian tea leaves.

Milo Dinosaur – Chocolate malt + coffee = pure energy boost.

Where it’s at: Taipei City, Da’an District, Dunhua S. Rd. Sec. 1, No. 187, Alley 72
Call: 02-2731-6086
Hours: 11:30 AM – 10 PM (Fri & Sat till 11 PM)

Gaucho – Argentinian BBQ

Meat lovers, this one’s for you. If you like thick steak, juicy ribs, and ice-cold beer, Gaucho in Zhongshan is calling your name. This place is run by guys who grew up in Argentina, so you already know the grill game is strong.

Must-Try Dishes

BBQ Meat Platter for Two – A mix of beef, pork, chicken, and sausage, grilled just right over charcoal. Dip it in their homemade chimichurri sauce for an extra punch of flavor.

Milanesa – A Latin-style fried steak coated in crispy breadcrumbs and topped with melted cheese. It’s like Japanese katsu, but with a South American twist.

South American Beer – Available in half-liter or a massive three-liter tower. If you never poured a beer from a three-liter jug, now’s your chance.

Address: Number One, Yumen Street, Zhongshan District, Taipei
Call: 0227316086
Hours: 1200 PM to 200 PM, 600 PM to 1000 PM, closed on Mondays
How to Get There: Short walk from MRT Yuanshan Station

Mr Kebab – Egyptian and Middle Eastern Flavors

If you never had Middle Eastern food, Mr Kebab in Taichung is about to change your life. The owner is Egyptian, and the menu is packed with shawarma, falafel, and hummus that’ll keep you coming back.

Must-Try Dishes

Hummus and Pita – Creamy, garlicky, and crazy addictive. Perfect for dipping.

Egyptian Beef Pie – A golden, crispy pastry stuffed with seasoned beef. Give people one bite, and you’ll understand why people keep talking about this one.

Rice Pudding – A Middle Eastern take on a classic dessert. Thick, creamy, and lightly spiced, it’s a solid way to end your meal.

Address: Number 145, Jingcheng South Road, Nantun District, Taichung
Call: 0424730851
Hours: Wednesday to Friday from 500 PM to 1000 PM, Saturday and Sunday from 1130 AM to 230 PM and 500 PM to 1000 PM, closed on Tuesdays

Sate House – Indonesian Heat

This Taipei spot has been on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list for three years straight. If you like bold flavors, spicy sauces, and that perfect balance of sweet and savory, this is your place.

Must-Try Dishes

Rendang Beef – Slow-cooked, fall-apart tender beef in a rich coconut curry sauce.

Chicken Satay – Grilled skewers covered in peanut sauce that just hit different.

Indonesian Oxtail Soup – Deep, rich broth with tender oxtail that makes for the ultimate comfort food.

Address: Number 15, Leli Road, Da’an District, Taipei
Call: 0227325048
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 1130 AM to 230 PM and 530 PM to 900 PM, closed Monday and Tuesday

Taksim Turkish Cuisine

If you’re looking for real-deal Turkish food in Kaohsiung, Taksim Turkish Cuisine has you covered. Freshly baked flatbreads, slow-cooked meats, and a heavy dose of Mediterranean spices make this one a must-visit.

Must-Try Dishes

Tavuk Pilav – Spiced-up Turkish chicken served over fluffy rice. Simple but packed with flavor.

Mixed Grill Platter for Three – Lamb, beef, and chicken with grilled veggies and yogurt potatoes.

Turkish Rice Pudding – Creamy, sweet, and the perfect way to wrap up a meal.

Address: Number 53, Linquan Street, Lingya District, Kaohsiung
Call: 0905126075
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 1130 AM to 200 PM and 530 PM to 900 PM, closed on Mondays

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