Tofu
Shenkeng Old Street — also known as Shenkeng Tofu Street — is a historic food haven near Taipei, famed for its tofu-centric offerings, especially its iconic stinky tofu. This fermented delicacy, known as chòu dòufu (臭豆腐), is brined in a mixture of fermented milk, vegetables, and sometimes meat, producing its unmistakably pungent aroma — often likened to blue cheese. While the smell is bold and immediate, the flavor is surprisingly addictive and deeply savory.
The pedestrian-friendly street, lined with Qing Dynasty-style architecture, offers a nostalgic atmosphere perfect for leisurely grazing. Beyond deep-fried and grilled stinky tofu, visitors can sample tofu stewed in brown sauce, black tofu, and even tofu ice cream.
Shenkeng is also celebrated for its “four treasures”: green bamboo shoots, black pork, white tofu, and Wenshan Baozhong tea. These regional specialties appear in seasonal dishes at local eateries, making the street a must-visit destination for lovers of traditional Taiwanese cuisine.
