Discover Good Friend Cold Noodles: Taipei's Beloved Taiwanese Delight

Name: Good Friend Cold Noodles
Address: No. 31號, Danan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111, Shilin District, 111, TW
Telephone: 02 2881 1197
Price range: $$

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Taipei’s Shilin District, Good Friend Cold Noodles offers an authentic taste of Taiwanese street food culture that has captivated locals and visitors alike. Renowned for its perfectly tender noodles and a distinctive sesame-based sauce with a tantalizing hint of lemon and garlic, this eatery has earned a stellar reputation for quality and flavor. Whether you’re navigating the bustling Shilin Night Market or simply seeking a refreshing meal, this spot promises a memorable culinary experience.

Signature dishes and flavor profile

At the core of Good Friend Cold Noodles’ appeal is its deceptively simple yet profoundly delicious cold noodle dish. The noodles are served chilled, paired with a luscious sauce blending sesame paste, soy sauce, garlic, and a subtle vinegar tang that creates an umami-rich harmony. Crunchy shredded cucumbers and lightly pickled mustard greens add refreshing contrast, while the customizable spiciness level—from mild to spicy—caters to every palate. Many praise the addition of a sweet and slightly spicy peanut sauce variant, complemented by a soothing miso soup, crafting a perfectly balanced meal.

Why visit Good Friend Cold Noodles?

Good Friend Cold Noodles stands out for more than just its mouthwatering dishes. This Michelin-recognized restaurant (listed consecutively from 2019 to 2024) boasts consistent quality, rapid service, and wallet-friendly prices — all factors that contribute to its loyal fan base. Its convenient location near the Shilin Night Market allows hungry explorers to grab a quick, flavorful meal or a takeaway to enjoy while wandering the lively streets. Despite its popularity, the restaurant maintains a welcoming atmosphere suitable for families and solo diners alike.

Community sentiment and experience

Positive is the prevailing mood around Good Friend Cold Noodles. Visitors consistently highlight the perfect balance of flavors and the exceptional umami punch of the sauce. The fast, friendly service and affordable pricing enhance the overall experience. Many appreciate that the restaurant offers takeout and customizable spice levels, making it accessible to a wide range of diners.

Frequently asked questions

What are the operating hours of Good Friend Cold Noodles? The restaurant operates from 4:30 PM to 11:30 PM, Monday through Wednesday and Friday through Sunday. It remains closed on Thursdays.
Is there a vegetarian option available? Yes, the vegetarian option is available, which excludes garlic sauce.
Do they accept credit cards? No, Good Friend Cold Noodles operates on a cash-only basis.
Is there a takeout option? Yes, takeout is available for those who prefer to enjoy their meal elsewhere.
How spicy are the cold noodles? The spiciness level can be customized according to your preference, ranging from mild to spicy.

Historical overview of good friend cold noodles taipei shilin district taiwan

Nestled in the vibrant Shilin District of Taipei City, Good Friend Cold Noodles is a culinary gem with a rich history that spans over two decades. Established in the year 2000, this beloved eatery started as a humble stall positioned right in front of a pharmacy within the bustling Shilin Night Market, one of Taiwan's most famous night markets. The stall quickly attracted attention for its unique approach to traditional Taiwanese cold noodles, offering a refreshing and flavorful alternative to the local food scene.

two decades of culinary excellence and growth

From its modest beginnings, Good Friend Cold Noodles garnered a loyal local following because of its masterful balance of simple ingredients such as tender noodles, fresh cucumber, and a savory, garlicky sauce with an umami-rich profile. This simplicity combined with incredible flavor helped the stall rise above the competition and gain recognition beyond the night market crowd.

A significant milestone came in 2019 when Good Friend Cold Noodles was awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for the first time. This prestigious accolade, recognizing establishments that offer exceptional food at moderate prices, was a testament to the stall's commitment to quality and authenticity. The eatery maintained this recognition consecutively through 2020 and 2022, highlighting consistent excellence in the competitive Taipei food scene.

expansion and continued recognition

By 2021, the growing popularity of Good Friend Cold Noodles prompted the owners to expand beyond the original night market stall. They relocated to a larger, dedicated space at No. 31 Danan Road in Shilin District, offering diners a comfortable environment to savor their signature cold noodles. This expansion allowed the establishment to serve more customers while preserving the authenticity and charm that made it a local favorite.

The menu continues to highlight the refreshing cold noodles, crafted with a special sesame paste and soy sauce blend, complemented by shredded cucumber and optional spicy kick. This dish perfectly suits the hot Taipei climate and embodies the spirit of Taiwanese street food culture — simple, affordable, and deeply satisfying.

2000: Established as a stall in front of a pharmacy in Shilin Night Market.
2019: Awarded Michelin Bib Gourmand for the first time, signaling rising acclaim.
2020-2022: Maintained Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition, affirming consistent quality.
2021: Expanded to current location with dedicated seating to accommodate growing popularity.

Good Friend Cold Noodles stands as a testament to how passion for simple yet delicious street food can grow into an iconic dining destination. Whether you are a foodie exploring Taipei or a local craving authentic flavors, this establishment offers an unmissable taste of Taiwanese culinary tradition.