Far from being a fad, Taiwan is home to vegetarian food and over three million vegetarians! Yes, there are Buddhist and Daoist influences, as well as traditional Chinese food culture, but it seems Taiwan food reflects the importance of a healthy lifestyle to locals. In fact, locals are encouraged to have one full vegetarian day every week. Vegetarian labeling of foods has also been regulated since 2010.
Every type of vegetarian is catered for in Taiwan, including vegans, so your dietary choices definitely shouldn’t stop you in Taiwan. Indeed, there are even Michelin standard vegetarian restaurants, street food stalls, right through to creative gourmet food, and bento on the train. Flavor influences abound and include traditional Chinese vegetarian cuisine to Japanese, Italian, Thailand, and Indian vegetarian food. Dig in!