Sunset Row Food Guide: Discover Local Eats and Hidden Gems

On the island's west side, a new culinary hotspot is emerging, which we've named Sunset Row. This area, comprising Duzaiping Road, Huandao Road, Fuxin Road and Shanfu Road, is perfectly positioned to capture spectacular sunsets, making it a scenic backdrop for dining and socializing.

May Gu Chard 

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May Gu Chard is situated at the site of the former public camping grounds near Beauty Cave. This spot is our favorite when we want to savor the sunset with a cocktail, coffee, or other non-alcoholic drinks. The view from here is particularly breathtaking, given its location atop a seaside cliff.

The cliff nets allow you to sit or lie down perched atop the cliff, sipping a cocktail and reading a book—perfect for capturing some very Instagrammable moments. If the nets aren't your style, you can still enjoy the sunset comfortably seated on one of the many outdoor lounge sofas. It's also an incredibly romantic spot for a date. 

Every time friends visit the island, we make sure to bring them here—it's quite possibly the highest endorsement we can give.

BLACKOUT BBQ

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Blackout BBQ offers a unique dining experience with its fresh, premium ingredients and a stunning seaside setting. Guests rave about the superb quality of dishes such as the Matsusaka pork, kimchi rolls, and a standout favorite—the sliced fish stomach. 

The menu includes a variety of delightful offerings from seasoned skewers to substantial seafood porridge, all served amidst a relaxed, picturesque environment perfect for watching the sunset. Though more pricey than your average meal on the island,  the quality and portion sizes are substantial, justifying the expense for many.

The dining atmosphere is enhanced with thoughtful touches like mosquito coils to ensure comfort and an outdoor torii gate that adds a cultural charm and a beautiful Instagram moment. While there might be a wait time, the attentive and friendly service, coupled with the ability to order and pay via a convenient QR code system, makes for a seamless experience. 

Blackout BBQ’s commitment to quality and atmosphere, alongside modern conveniences and a scenic view, makes it a standout choice for those visiting the island.

Fu Lu So Se Taiyaki 

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If you're seeking a sweet treat on the island, Fu Lu So Se Taiyaki is an absolute must-visit. This delightful dessert shop has quickly become my favorite spot for indulging in sweets. The taiyaki here, with its perfect texture—crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside—and just the right amount of sweetness, is an irresistible treat, gluten-free too! 

Best enjoyed warm, these fish-shaped delights come with a variety of fillings like chocolate, custard, cheese, and taro, ensuring every visit offers a new flavor to savor. I loved this place so much that during my first discovery, I visited five times in one week and sometimes has two taiyakis in one sitting!  The friendly staff, drink selection, and the option to relax with a draft beer as the sun sets make Fu Lu So Se Taiyaki not just a dessert spot but a serene escape for anyone visiting Xiaoliuqiu. I officially rate this place f*ck me this is so good you have to try. 

Sea Daze Liuqiu

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Sea Daze Liuqiu emerged as a wicked surprise on the Xiaoliuqiu bar scene, transforming the local nightlife and boosting the island's cool factor significantly. After a 4 month absence from the island last year, I was elated to return to find this bar, which perfectly captures the essence of a relaxed beach bar with its sandy floor and mesmerizing sunset views. 

The ambiance at Sea Daze Liuqiu is nothing short of magical, making it a prime spot for both starting and ending a night of bar hopping. The bar is well-known for its laid-back island vibes, friendly staff, and engaging activities like cornhole, adding to the fun. My wife, Sheila, appreciates the availability of Guinness beer, a rare find on the island, which is just another reason to love this place. Whether you're there for the cocktails, the company, or the stunning ocean view, Sea Daze Liuqiu is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Xiaoliuqiu's nightlife.

As the local organizer of Deep Week Taiwan, I knew this is where we had to have the week-ending party. 

Cheers Beer and BBQ 

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There are a plethora of all-you-can-eat BBQ joints on the island but If you're looking for the best BBQ experience, look no further than this place, my personal favorite for its comfort and quality. 

With its indoor seating equipped with air conditioning and a robot that delivers your meat selection right to your table, the atmosphere is as innovative as it is welcoming. The variety of foods, from quality meats to an impressive array of seafood and non-BBQ options, ensures there's something for everyone. 

They've recently updated their menu (April 2024), enhancing an already extensive selection that includes seafood like squid, oysters, shrimp, abalone, scallop and clams which I found exceptionally tasty (the oysters were my favorite seafood item). Their attention to detail is evident, from frosty cold mugs perfect for enjoying the all-you-can-drink Captain's Beer—a local favorite—to regularly refreshed offerings like their much-loved duck blood.

The friendly and efficient staff, cleanliness of the premises, and fresh ingredients all contribute to making this BBQ place a must-visit. 

One of our favorite things to do on the island is start off with a sunset cocktail and Sea Daze and then walk across the street to here for sick culinary indulgence. 

The Witch 

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The Witch cafe offers a serene and charming experience for anyone looking to relax and enjoy a beautiful afternoon by the sea. This cozy spot boasts an unmatched sea view and the charming company of a resident cat that guests can pet. 

The menu includes a variety of enticing desserts like fruit chiffon cakes and an array of exquisite drinks, with the Witch Caramel Milk Tea highly recommended for its unique flavor. Guests can indulge in freshly prepared meals and a selection of decadent desserts such as tiramisu, each served with meticulous care. 

The Witch also takes special care to accommodate pet owners, making it one of the few pet-friendly establishments in the area. Furthermore, the cafe is equipped with indoor seating for those who prefer to enjoy their sweets in the comfort of air conditioning while still offering the option to sit outdoors and soak in the sunset views. 

Come to The Witch if you are looking for a perfect blend of natural beauty, culinary delight, and relaxed vibes.

Aburi Kojima 

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Aburi Kojima is the standout Japanese restaurant on Xiaoliuqiu after starting out as a much smaller establishment tucked away in a small alley.  Renowned for its fresh, beautifully presented dishes and a welcoming dining environment. The quality and portion sizes provide excellent value, particularly in comparison to Taipei. 

The ingredients, from seafood to the unique rice bowls, are impeccably fresh, and dishes like the chawanmushi and seafood miso soup are highlighted for their authenticity and flavor. The restaurant also offers a modern convenience with QR code menus that display meal photos and prices, enhancing the dining experience. 

Guests have praised the atmosphere as comfortable and the setting ideal for cooling down after a sunny day outdoors, with additional perks like well-behaved pet dogs adding to the charm. While the wait times can be long, especially on weekends, the overall consensus is that Aburi Kojima is worth the wait for its memorable dining experience on the island.

Wild BBQ 69

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Wild BBQ 69 is a charming little spot inside ruins of an ancient building, celebrated for its sumptuous BBQ offerings and enchanting outdoor setting under market lights. The BBQ skewers are the highlight, alongside the beef, chicken, lamb, fish and veggies. Diners appreciate the affordability of the meals and the efficient service, despite the outdoor setting lacking air conditioning. The location is ideal for watching sunsets at Sanfu pier followed by a starlit dinner, adding a touch of romance to the evening. 

The restaurant caters to comfort with thoughtful amenities like mosquito repellent and refreshing beer on tap, enhancing the outdoor dining experience. The connection to nature is a significant part of its charm, as diners can listen to the waves and stargaze without the interference of light pollution. 

With friendly staff and a welcoming owner familiar to some from his other location in Jiaoxi, Yilan, Wild BBQ 69 promises a memorable dining experience for both locals and tourists alike.

Hey Hey Bar

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Hey Hey Bar is the quintessential spot to unwind on the island, known for its cool vibes and chill atmosphere. This unique venue offers excellent cocktails, hookah and lively music.

The bar features a refreshing pool option where guests can take a dip to cool off on hot days.  Additionally, Hey Hey Bar doubles as a dive pool, making it a versatile destination. This is my first choice when booking pools to teach confined water sessions during one of my freedive courses.

The service is consistently praised, with a friendly staff that adds to the relaxed ambiance. And if you're a fan of adorable pets, you might meet the resident Pomeranian. I never knew a dog could be so ugly and adorably cute at the same time.

Whether you're looking to relax, enjoy good music, or simply escape the heat in their air-conditioned section or pool.

Smoked Wood 

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This restaurant is carving out a niche for itself with its mouth-watering American smoked specialties. Among their standout offerings are the smoked beef brisket, slow-fired smoked pulled pork, and smoked wood spicy chicken wings, each dish earning high praise from diners. 

The beef brisket, in particular, is a favorite for its exceptional tenderness and flavor, enhanced by superior hamburger buns that set it apart from the competition. The generous portion sizes also add to the overall satisfaction, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate hearty, flavorful meals.

This emerging culinary corridor is not just a place to eat and drink; it's a destination where every meal is enhanced by stunning sunset views that paint the sky with colors as rich and varied as the food offerings on your plate. From the bustling energy of its bars to the intimate charm of its restaurants, Sunset Row promises not just a meal, but an experience worth savoring.