is a product of a unique meeting of cultural, historical and geographical factors in Taipei.

Culturally, food occupies such a central place in Chinese society that the people commonly greet each other at mealtime by asking, "Have you eaten yet?" Even in the fast-paced life of Taipei, people find time to slow down and appreciate a good meal with family and friends, and the evidence is clear in the quantity and quality of restaurants in the city.

The local love of food aside, Taipei's culinary scene has benefited from its place as a magnet for immigrants from nearly every region of China. While the local Taiwanese cuisine is heavily influenced by the diet of Fujian province, from which many of the old-time city residents hail, the newer mainland arrivals have brought to Taipei the secrets of every major regional Chinese cuisine. So whether you're craving spicy Sichuan or exotic Cantonese cuisine, expect dishes meeting the highest standards of authenticity when dining out in Taipei.

The final ingredient making Taipei such an eaters' paradise is the ready availability of farm and sea fresh ingredients of every imaginable type. Tropical fruits and high mountain veggies all thrive in the fertile soil and sunny climate of Taiwan, producing a harvest of top-quality ingredients for equally first-rate cuisine.

Many of Taipei's top restaurants are conveniently located in major tourist hotels, but make sure also to venture further afield to fully appreciate the city's food attractions. Traditional Taiwanese breakfasts served with fresh-made soymilk, exotic wild-grown vegetables savored at a scenic mountainside restaurant, night market snacks, spicy hot pots and riverside seafood restaurants are just a few of the many mouthwatering experiences that await you in Taipei.