When it comes to Yilan seafood, connoisseurs always smile with understanding. This simple land nestled between mountains and sea is just a half-hour drive from Su'Ao, the largest fishing port in northern Taiwan. The abundant catches brought by the northeast monsoons have made Yilan a hidden gem of fresh flavors in Taipei's backyard. Unlike tourist areas, most seafood restaurants here are longtime establishments beloved by locals for decades, relying on genuine ingredients and fair prices.
What sets Yilan seafood apart is the word "fresh"—many restaurants work directly with fishing boats from Nanfang'ao and Wushi Port, serving fish straight from the dock to the table within hours. Signature dishes typically feature the day's fresh catch, with sashimi, pan-frying, and blanching being the most common cooking methods that preserve the ocean's natural sweetness. Being close to the source, prices are also much more affordable than in Taipei city center, perfect for travelers who want to indulge in seafood without breaking the bank.
Xiao Hao Seafood is the most famous queue-worthy establishment in Yilan's Toucheng, located near Wushi Port on Section 3 of Qingyun Road. Despite its modest decor, it offers amazing value. The handwritten menu by the owner is filled with seafood options. Their fresh sashimi is highly recommended—nearly 20 pieces for just 200 NTD, layered with salmon, tuna, and marlin, guaranteeing freshness. The steamed red-eye fish has tender flesh with perfectly seasoned scallion and ginger—it's practically a must-order at every table. Note: cash only, no reservations, and a 70-minute dining limit. It's best to arrive early before opening to queue. Hours are 11:00-14:00 and 16:30-19:30, closed every Tuesday.
If you want an all-you-can-eat experience, Qiu Qian Seafood Buffet is the top choice in Yilan city. At 630 NTD for weekday lunch and 680 NTD for weekend lunch, it's excellent value in the seafood buffet realm. The restaurant uses open seafood display cases where customers can pick live, jumping shrimp, crabs, and shellfish to be cooked on the spot—the transparent sourcing puts diners at ease. Lunch is served 11:30-14:30 (extended to 15:30 on weekends), dinner 17:30-21:00, and children under 90cm eat free, making it very family-friendly.
For those seeking a more upscale dining environment, Umigame Cafe in Jiaoxi offers a completely different experience. It combines the elegance of a café with the culinary expertise of a seafood restaurant. The renovated old house exudes a subtle cultural vibe. The menu features Japanese set meals and seafood dishes. The "Salt-Grilled Mackerel" is the star of the menu—crispy, golden fish skin with fatty, juicy flesh, served with lemon juice and pepper salt in a small dish, simple yet unforgettable. Another popular dish, "Squid Rice Noodle Soup," features a savory broth with chewy, tender squid, a warming heartwarming choice many diners swear by. Reservations are highly recommended at Umigame Cafe. Hours are Thursday to Tuesday 11:30-16:00 and 17:30-20:30, closed Wednesday.
To experience the more authentic Jiaoxi Old Street atmosphere, Lai Yi Fish Market is a local favorite. Originally a fish market, the second generation recently transformed it into a seafood restaurant. Its biggest feature is the "freshly caught" concept—an aquarium behind the counter lets you choose your own king crab, lobster, or grouper, which can be steamed, salt-grilled, or served as sashimi. Prices fluctuate with the season but generally fall in the mid-range, with an average spend of 500-800 NTD per person for a satisfying meal. Due to its popularity, it's recommended to call ahead to confirm availability and make a reservation.
Practical Information: From Taipei, you can take Guoguang Bus or Shoudu Bus directly to Jiaoxi or Luodong, with a journey of about 1.5 hours; or drive via National Highway No. 5 and exit at Jiaoxi or Luodong. Most seafood restaurants are concentrated in Toucheng, Jiaoxi, and Zhuangwei areas. It's recommended to plan a day trip—visit the Lanyang Museum or Waiao Beach in the morning, enjoy a seafood lunch, and soak in hot springs or explore the old street in the afternoon.
Travel Tips: Most Yilan seafood restaurants are cash-only, so be sure to prepare in advance. Some popular establishments don't accept reservations, and queuing onsite is normal. Although colder during the northeast monsoon season (November to February), this is when fish are the fattiest and seafood is the most affordable. Avoid peak dining hours (12:00-13:00 and 18:00-19:30) for better chances of finding a seat.
