Where Locals Eat

On our quaint island of Xiaooliuqiu, there lies a culinary landscape perhaps undiscovered by the average tourist. While visitors flock to the most advertised eateries, seeking convenience or the dazzle of holiday specials, the local residents have their own cherished spots. 

Below are not in any particular order. 

Simple Eats (MAP)

After my course pool sessions nearby, I always find myself drawn to this hidden gem. Nestled in an alley, aptly named "end of alley" in Mandarin, it's overshadowed by one of the island's most popular eateries. However, for me, 'Simple Eats' stands out as the superior choice, devoid of the bustling crowds and long queues its neighbor constantly attracts.

Their fried rice noodles are a delightful treat, airy and remarkably low on oil. One of the island's delicacies is the dry cured mahi mahi, which they ingeniously use like bacon, sprinkling bits of it in their fried rice to create a mouthwatering dish. But the pièce de résistance? The Gold Brick. A unique creation reminiscent of the Cantonese radish cake, but ingeniously crafted with seafood and either sweet potato or pumpkin.

To wash it all down, they offer invigorating beverages like winter melon tea, mulberry juice, and roselle tea. And for a sweet finish, don't miss out on their mango ice popsicle, bursting with rich mango essence.

The Yang’s Sichuan Noodles (Map)

We were so smitten with this joint, we took the liberty of translating their menu into English—because, why not? Whether you're in the mood for a fiery feast or something milder, this is your carb-loading haven between dives. Their braised pork over rice? Most unique. And let's not even get started on the crowd-favorite Sichuan noodles. 

Cai Mama (Map)

And the trophy for "Most Likely to Be Open When You're Hungry" goes to... this spot! While other joints on the island play hard to get with their limited hours, this place is always there for you, like that reliable friend who answers your 2 AM calls. Dive into their mahi mahi fried rice, but let me spill some tea: the fish belly? Oh yessssssssss, that's the real star of the show. 🏆🐟😉

Zhou Taitai (Map)

Craving a veggie-packed, guilt-free meal? Say no more! Whenever my tummy's calling for something light yet satisfying, this is my go-to spot. Now, let me spill some beans (or should I say rice?): we Cantonese folks, we know our congee. It's our comfort, our soul food. And let me tell you, this place doesn't just pass the congee test, it graduates top of the class.

94 Duck (Map)

Duck fat? Oh talk dirty to me,, that's my love language! Anything drenched, drizzled, or delicately touched by duck fat, and I'm all in. So, it's no surprise that this joint's duck fat rice has me swooning—it's my island crush. And while clams might be the star in their soup, the real scene-stealer is the 3 cup tofu. Not a tofu fan? Prepare to be converted. Our love for this place? Let's just say it's so deep, we translated the menu into English. Because, why not? 🦆

San Ji Bistro (Map）

San Ji Bistro, a culinary gem rooted in the heart of Taiwanese flavors, has evolved from its humble beginnings as a food cart into a distinguished establishment known for its delectable bento-style cuisine. Embarking on a journey that celebrates the rich tapestry of Taiwanese culinary traditions, San Ji Bistro has garnered a loyal following by staying true to its roots while elevating the dining experience.

Yi Pin Taiwanese Buffet (Map)

Alright, foodie adventurers, here's the inside scoop: this joint is where the locals hang. Now, calling it a "buffet" might give you those unlimited grub vibes, but think of it more as a smorgasbord of Chinese delights. From a kaleidoscope of meats to a garden of veggies, it's a vegetarian's paradise on the island. Pro tip? Swing by around 11 am (they open at 9 am) to beat the lunch rush. By noon, it's buzzing, and by 12:30 pm, the pickings might be slim—they wrap up by 1:30 pm.

Now, let's talk moolah. Your bill depends on your plate's residents. Meats have a per-piece rate, while veggies are charged based on variety. Opt for five different greens? You'll pay the same as if you piled on just one type. So, I say, go big and stack those veggies high! 🥦🍖🥢😉

Take away or dine in. 

First Love (Map)

Stepping into this place is like stepping into a warm hug! It's got that cozy, "I've just walked into my family's dining room" vibe. Imagine the kind of Chinese food you'd be served if your folks spent the entire day in the kitchen, whipping up a feast to celebrate your return from uni. What's the cherry on top? The flavors here are like a well-choreographed dance—subtle, balanced, and oh-so-delicious. And while we're pretty sure they give MSG the cold shoulder (though we've never mustered up the courage to ask), every bite feels like pure, home-cooked love. The English-menu is a bonus.

Tao Hai Ran (Map)

Roll out the red carpet for the freshest face in town! If there was an award for the "favorite new kid on the block," this joint would be taking it home, hands down. Having thrown open its doors just shy of six months ago, it's the newbie on our list but packs a punch in the value department. Serving up scrumptious rice dishes and soul-soothing soups, it's a treat for the taste buds. And for the offal aficionados out there (yours truly included), their pig's tongue is a taste adventure you won't want to miss. 

Hai'an Seafood Stir Fry Restaurant (Map)

Out of the smorgasbord of stir-fry joints sprinkled across the island (and trust me, we've sampled a good handful), this spot shines a tad brighter. Why, you ask? Well, it's cozily nestled right by the ocean's embrace. While it might not give you that direct sunset money shot, those golden hues sneakily play peek-a-boo from the right, adding a touch of magic to the panorama. And here's a cheeky tip: if you're rolling in with a squad (think more than a duo), dive into the fish head stew. It's not just a flavor bomb but also bang for your buck! 

Community Noodles (Map)

Oh, talk about a blast from the past! I almost let this gem slip through the cracks, given it's been a hot minute since I last indulged there. But noodle aficionados, brace yourselves! Whether you're in the mood for noodle soup, dry delights, wheat wonders, slender strands, hearty thick noodles, or the delicate rice variety, they've got you covered. And a cheeky heads up: their chili sauce? It's not just good, it's "cancel-all-your-plans-and-slather-this-on-everything" kind of AWESOME. 🍜🌶️😉

Fisherman's Hotpot - All you can eat hot pot (Map)

Hot pot enthusiasts, assemble! And for those yet to dip their toes (or should I say, chopsticks) into the hot pot world, what are you waiting for? Every time I saunter in here, it's a straight beeline to the lamb and those delectable meatballs. Oh, the lamb! It's my protein-packed guilty pleasure. And those meatballs? Handcrafted little wonders, free from any sneaky fillers or preservatives. So good, in fact, that we bag 'em up as gourmet gifts for our pals in Taipei. And if I'm feeling a tad cheeky, I might just indulge in some ice cream. Because, why not? 

And there you have it, fellow food aficionados! A whirlwind tour of Xiaoliuqiu's culinary delights, from the cozy nooks to the ocean-side treats. Whether you're a noodle nut, a hot pot hero, or just in for the sunset views, there's a plate (or pot) waiting for you on this island. So, the next time you find yourself wandering these shores, let your taste buds lead the way. Until then, keep those appetites adventurous and those palates cheeky!