It’s not every day that you wake up in a different city with a different culture. Along with these new experiences comes the excitement of discovering local cuisine — and we were no exception.
After researching with my dear friends, we discovered that one of the best restaurants in Taiwan is the renowned Yong Kang Beef Noodles. The advice we read was simple: follow where the crowd is. While that may not always be true, when it comes to food, I’d say it’s spot on.
From a distance, we could already spot a line of umbrellas clustered like wet mushrooms — a clear sign that we had found the right place. Fortunately, we were accommodated quickly since diners here seem to follow a simple routine: eat, then leave.
Food Experience
I ordered the Spicy Beef Noodles with Soybean Sauce, while my friends opted for the version with cattle tendons. My dish was an explosion of flavor — spicy, rich, and utterly delectable. The warmth of the broth paired perfectly with the cold and rainy weather, making each spoonful even more satisfying.
The Australian beef was tender, and the noodles were just right — not too firm, not too soft. The broth had a delightful hint of star anise, adding depth to the overall flavor. It was truly worth a contented “mmm” at our table.
For our appetizer, we ordered the steamed hog large intestines. Surprisingly, it was flavorful and enjoyable as well.
Service and Atmosphere
A funny moment happened when I asked for water. The attendant responded in Chinese, and I stood there, completely puzzled. Thankfully, her gestures and tone made it clear that this was a self-service restaurant, and she pointed me toward the water station in the corner. Got it — lesson learned!
Yong Kang Beef Noodles is a two-story restaurant that can accommodate a large number of diners. The ambiance is simple and a bit dated, which makes sense since the restaurant has been operating since 1963. The tables are closely packed, and because of the crowd, seating is efficiently managed. If you’re dining solo or in a pair, expect to be seated with other guests — a common practice in busy Asian restaurants.
Final Thoughts
The prices are reasonable, and the servings are generous. The service is generally fast, though I felt the attendant gave me a bit of a cold shoulder — perhaps just part of the rush. Fortunately, the counter staff was pleasant.
If you’re not used to spicy food, you might find the broth’s heat overwhelming. Luckily, my love for Korean cuisine had already trained my palate for the challenge.
Overall, Yong Kang Beef Noodles is a must-try for anyone craving authentic Taiwanese flavors — just be ready for a spicy kick and a bustling dining experience! 🌶️🍜
Ambiance: 4/5
Price: 5/5
Serving: 5/5
Service: 3.5/5
Taste: 4.5/5
Yong Kang Beef Noodles address: 106, Taiwan, Taipei City, Da’an District, 金山南路二段31巷17號
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. Photo watermark is named after my old site.
