Once you step off the ferry, head to the right and down the main street called “Miao Qian Lu”. Here you will find a street market full of seafood choices. The market and stands stretch all the way around to the main strip on the beach.
Here is a quick look at the specialties of Chijin….
#1 Fresh Seafood (100 NT plates)
The main street right of the ferry in Chijin is lined with many seafood restaurants displaying their menus for the day.
Basically, you just point at what you want. Most foods are stir fried, but sometimes they can grill or steam items for you. Usually the dishes contain garlic, basil, and some other sauces or spices. It is best to order several dishes and share as a whole table family style.
The higher priced items will be of better quality. Fish is usually steamed but you can ask for it fried as well.
There are probably seafood types you have never seen before. After you make your order, go and find a table. You can grab drinks from the refrigerator inside and order rice or noodles as well. Evenings and sunset are the busiest time and the street is bustling. Most will be closed up by 10pm.
#2 Snails, Snails, Snails 燒酒螺 “shao jiu luo”
Snails have always been and always will be a Chijin delicacy. These tiny snails, boiled in a Taiwanese liquor and spiced with chili peppers are bagged and ready to be sucked on shell by shell. It’s not for everyone, but it is a true Taiwanese snack.
You can ask for the the least spicy to the most spicy flavor. After buying a bag, just walk around and either pick out or suck out the meat from the shell.
The Chinese name is “Shao Jiu Luo”.
#3 Barbecued Squid on a Stick
If you have traveled around southern Taiwan, you have most likely seen grilled squid (cuttlefish). It is a strange looking, alien like, snack. It’s grilled with a thick soy sauce mixture until the texture is less rubbery and easy to eat.
Below, a quick video of how it’s made.
There are many grilled squid stands on Chijin as it is a popular Taiwanese snack.
#4 Stalls and Street Food
As you walk to the end of the main market street, the road curves and you can see the beach. Many stalls will line the main strip offering drinks and snacks.
Cuttlefish, corn, and sausages are on the grill.
FRESH coconut juice!
Deep fried vendors fry up some cuttlefish.
Bags of shrimp crackers for the ferry ride back.
Other Articles About Chijin Island:
Kaohsiung City Chi Jin Island 旗津 | Chijin Lighthouse/Fort Walk | What to eat on Chijin Island | Rooftop Bar on Chijin Island
