Zhongshan Taipei Guide 2026: Best Cafes & Spicy Noodles

Zhongshan Cafe Street Guide

Taipei Travel Itinerary

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Let me introduce you to a hidden gem near Ximending: Zhongshan Cafe Street.

Packed with aesthetic photo spots, amazing cafes, and vintage boutiques,

it's my absolute favorite Taipei travel spot that I visit every single time.

After Work in Taiwan

Words & Photos by Gyoni-pick

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Taipei Travel Itinerary Recommendation

Zhongshan Cafe Street Guide

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While bustling tourist spots have their charm, sometimes you just crave a quiet, relaxing day. That's exactly what led me here.

Located right near Ximending but boasting a completely different vibe, this neighborhood is full of charming, maze-like alleyways.

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On weekends, it transforms into a creative hub loved by the local Gen Z crowd—think Brooklyn or Silver Lake. You can enjoy amazing food, unique boutiques, aesthetic cafes, and endless photo ops all in one place.

1. How to Get to Zhongshan Cafe Street

📍 By MRT

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✔ Ximen Station (Blue Line) → Taipei Main Station

✔ Transfer to the Red Line (Tamsui-Xinyi Line) → Get off at Zhongshan Station

✔ Take Exit 2, and you'll step right into the cafe street.

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2. A Scenic Stroll Through Zhongshan

📍 Zhongshan
No. 16, Nanjing W Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491

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Every single alley in Zhongshan is picture-perfect.

This is exactly the authentic local vibe I was looking for ♥ ♥ ♥

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Its unique vintage charm and warm atmosphere completely won me over.

With cute retro signs, potted plants, and street murals, my camera didn't get a moment's rest.

It's the perfect neighborhood just to wander and window-shop!

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On weekends, there's a flea market near the station that's definitely worth checking out. They sell beautiful accessories and clothes, though the prices can be a little on the pricey side!

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It's a highly walkable and safe area, making it highly recommended for solo travelers.

On weekdays, it's uncrowded and incredibly relaxing.

Just keep in mind that Fridays through Sundays get pretty busy! :)

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3. Top 3 Taipei Eats: The Master Spicy Noodle

📍 The Master Spicy Noodle Zhongshan Restaurant
No. 36, Lane 42, Section 2, Zhongshan N Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491

📍 Address

No. 36, Lane 42, Section 2, Zhongshan N Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491

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📍 Hours

Mon - Thu

11:30 AM - 2:30 PM

5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Sat - Sun

11:30 AM - 9:00 PM

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*The Zhongshan branch has an English menu available.

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I've had my fair share of traditional beef noodle soup, so I was on the hunt for something unique.

That's when I found The Master Spicy Noodle, a brilliant fusion take on the classic dish.

It was packed with locals and expats, offering a truly authentic experience.

It's especially popular as a trendy hotspot for the local Gen Z crowd.

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🍜 Recommended Menu

Mala Tang Noodles (swap the side for tofu)

*The default side includes duck blood, so definitely request the swap if that's not your thing!

*Pro tip: Add Youtiao (fried dough sticks) to dip in the broth.

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Uniquely, the noodles and broth are served separately.

You can pour the soup over the noodles or dip them bite by bite.

I personally found the dipping method incredibly delicious!

There's a savory sauce at the bottom of the noodle bowl, so make sure to give it a good mix first.

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The noodles are already perfectly seasoned, so just a quick dip in the broth is magical.

The mala (spicy and numbing) flavor isn't overpowering, making it totally approachable even for beginners.

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Easily in my Top 3 best meals in Taipei!

If you're looking for a special noodle dish, this is a must-visit.

They have a few other branches too, so just look up the one closest to you.

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4. Bobo Store (卜卜商店)

📍 卜卜商店 (Bobo Store)
103 Taiwan, Taipei City, Datong District, Lane 49, Chifeng St, 2號2樓

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📍 Address

103 Taiwan, Taipei City, Datong District, Lane 49,

Chifeng St, 2號2樓

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📍 Hours

11:30 AM - 7:20 PM

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To walk off that amazing lunch, I wandered back through the alleys

and headed to my bookmarked spot: Bobo Store.

The first floor is a charming lifestyle boutique, while the second floor is a cafe.

The entrance to the stairs is quite small, so keep your eyes peeled!

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As one of the hottest cafes in Zhongshan, there was a bit of a wait.

Fortunately, they had immediate seating available on the terrace,

so I happily took it.

With its lush "planterior" design, the terrace actually felt like a better choice!

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I was so full that I almost skipped dessert,

but noticing everyone around me ordering a personal treat with their coffee, I caved.

And thank goodness I did!

I would have seriously regretted missing out on this.

Even if you're stuffed, getting a dessert here is non-negotiable!

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I ordered the Earl Grey Strawberry Cake and a pudding.

Both were perfectly balanced, not overly sweet, and absolutely delicious.

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They also serve light meals alongside coffee and pastries,

making it a great spot for a late brunch.

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The space has such a warm, tranquil vibe that time seems to slow down.

Sitting on the terrace and people-watching was incredibly relaxing.

Taipei Travel Itinerary

Whether you're flying solo, on a healing trip, or traveling as a couple, Zhongshan Cafe Street is flawless.

If you arrive around 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM, you can easily spend

4 to 5 hours exploring, having lunch, and chilling at a cafe.

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11:00 AM

Stroll the alleys and snap some photos

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Master Spicy Noodle

1:00 PM

Walk off the meal while browsing local boutiques

2:00 PM

Relax at Bobo Store or another aesthetic cafe

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After wrapping up my Zhongshan Cafe Street tour,

I headed to Yongchun'gang Park to catch the Taipei 101 night view,

making it the perfect Taipei travel day.

I'll share the details about Yongchun'gang Park in another post!

Have a wonderful trip! :)