SAT, MAY 10, 2014 | 5:30 PM - 10:30 PM | University of Washington - Red Square
14th Annual UW NIGHT MARKET
When most people visit Taiwan, they usually head to one of the more famous night markets – Shilin Night Market in Taipei or Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung. But tucked away in the port city of Keelung (基隆), a small city of about 387,000 residents, is a true jewel among Taiwan’s myriad night markets: Keelung Temple Night Market (基隆廟口夜市).
The market’s name refers to Dianji Temple (奠濟宮) at the center of the market, which moved to its current location in 1875. Like many night markets in Taiwan, the floods of worshippers to the temple praying for good fortune helped drive the growth of a street market. The market is very distinct among Taiwan’s night markets: it is clean, well-organized, and also open during the day!
Keelung Temple Night Market: Jewel of Taiwan
By Ted Chen (4/17/2013)
The iconic lantern-lined main corridor of Keelung Temple Night Market is lined with numerous stalls. (Source)
It’s no secret that Keelung Temple Night Market holds a special place in my heart. My father’s family lived in Keelung for much of his childhood, so I would always hear about fond childhood memories from my father and aunts. The “temple sandwiches” (廟口三明治) were staples growing up. “Just how good could a sandwich be?” I thought. I would soon find out!
I first visited the night market over three years ago during winter break. Since then, it’s jumped to the top of my “Must Eat” list each time I return. One of the more unique food items is undoubtedly “din bian tsou” (鼎邊趖), a soup which includes special rice noodles, pork, shrimp cakes, and vegetables.
Due to its proximity to the sea, this night market is also known for its fresh seafood! A personal favorite is found in one of the many “unofficial” stalls outside of the main market: braised eel soup (紅燒鰻魚羹). Fresh eel is first battered, deep fried, and added to a delicious broth. It’s truly something that you have to experience to appreciate, so you’ll just have to take my word for it!
Of course, there are the usual night market staples – oyster omelettes (蚵仔煎), tempura (天婦羅), etc. But it’s the unique dishes that always bring me back again and again. Pao pao ice (泡泡冰), temple sandwiches (廟口三明治), and one-bite sausages (一口吃香腸), I’ll be back!
Din Bian Tsuo (鼎邊趖) is one of the many specialties of Keelung Temple Night Market (Source)