Malaysian travellers, known for their love of diverse culinary experiences, will find a rich selection in Taiwan’s vibrant food culture. This year, the Michelin Guide Taiwan 2024 Bib Gourmand selection has highlighted several Muslim-friendly establishments catering to the specific needs of Muslim travellers. With 126 outstanding yet affordable dining options, three of these restaurants stand out as ideal destinations, showcasing Taiwan’s culinary richness and inclusivity.
Featured Restaurants:
TAJ Indian Restaurant: Authentic Flavours from India
Located in Taipei, TAJ Indian Restaurant immerses diners in an ambience of authentic Indian decor, vibrant textiles, and intricate details. TAJ is one of the few halal-certified Indian restaurants in Taiwan, offering a taste of India prepared by native Indian chefs. The signature dish, the “Taj Flaming Lactate Carbon Grilled Chicken,” is a bold red delight marinated to tenderness, bursting with smoky flavours from traditional grilling techniques. This restaurant is a must for Muslim travellers seeking a genuine taste of India within Taiwan.
Halal Chinese Beef Noodle House (Da’an): Taipei’s Classic Halal Beef Noodles
Halal Chinese Beef Noodle House, with over 60 years of history, is a renowned Taipei institution beloved by Muslim visitors. Located near Taipei’s oldest mosque, this iconic eatery uses only halal-certified local beef to create a richly flavoured beef noodle soup with tender chunks of beef and chewy noodles. Its Michelin-recommended branch in the Xinyi District continues to attract long lines, offering a classic taste of Taiwan’s culinary culture thoughtfully crafted for Muslim travellers.
Little Tree Food (Da’an): Healthy and Creative Vegetarian Cuisine
There’s no shortage of vegetarian restaurants in Taipei, but few position themselves as the vegetarian equivalent of an American bistro. Little Tree Food stands out with an eclectic menu that draws on the head chef’s experience in Sichuan and Western cuisines, showcasing unique international flavours. Alongside pasta and pizzas, diners can enjoy Sichuan-inspired spicy dumplings with a tofu filling, Korean-style fried cauliflower coated in gochujang glaze, and the Thai-inspired “Pad Krapow Burning Bowl” salad. Little Tree Food is ideal for Muslim travellers seeking a creative, vegetarian-friendly dining experience with a global twist.
Abe Chou, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration Office in Kuala Lumpur, shares, “Taiwan is renowned for its culinary diversity, and these Muslim-friendly restaurants exemplify Taiwan’s commitment to inclusive, diverse dining. We hope Malaysian Muslim visitors feel a warm welcome in Taiwan, with access to halal-certified meals across Taipei, Taichung, and Tainan. With more establishments gaining halal certification, Taiwan strives to create a truly Muslim-friendly travel environment.
Diverse Taiwan, Welcoming to All
From traditional street food to creative culinary experiences, Taiwan emphasises inclusivity with increasing Muslim-friendly services, such as halal-certified dining and prayer facilities. According to the 2024 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), Taiwan ranks 3rd among non-OIC destinations, following Singapore and the UK. Taipei also received the “Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Destination City Award,” with over 60 Muslim-friendly hotels and restaurants and more than 30 prayer rooms and ablution facilities across the city’s public areas and attractions.
For more information, please contact the Taiwan Tourism Administration Kuala Lumpur Office at +603-20706789 or email tourism@taiwan.net.my.