Suncake

The suncake, or tai yang bing, is one of Taichung City's specialties and most recognizable standouts, despite the city's many signature dishes and unique variations on local gastronomy. This wonderful Taiwanese flaky pastry packed with gooey, buttery maltose filling has been a pleasure in every bakery store in Taichung since the Qing dynasty era.

It's even available as a keepsake in elegant gift boxes. The round-shaped Suncakes are usually sweeter than honey, and their thick, caramel-like filling contrasts well with the dry flakiness of the floury, paper-thin layers of phyllo dough.

Suncakes are traditionally served with a cup of Chinese tea, soaked in hot water and mashed into a porridge-like dessert, or dipped in warm almond milk, which is a popular breakfast option in Taichung.