Mukuchi Kitchen & Bar
📍 Address: 10343 Taiwan Taipei City, Datong District, Nanfang Village, Section 1, Huanhe N Rd, 431號 一楼
Just a few minutes’ walk from Daqiaotou Station, ‘Mukuchi Kitchen & Bar’ is a hidden gem tucked away in the back alleys of Dihua Street (Dadaocheng area), exuding a nostalgic charm. Housed on the ground floor of a traditional Taiwanese red-brick building, it’s a completely plant-based vegan ramen specialty restaurant.
They are uncompromisingly vegan, using no animal extracts from meat or seafood, nor any dairy products or eggs. It has garnered passionate support from health-conscious locals, international students on long-term stays, and travelers with dietary restrictions, with queues forming daily. Easily accessible from the Zhongshan area, it’s a renowned spot well worth visiting for authentic vegan cuisine. The terrace seating under the arcade offers a chance to enjoy your meal amidst the vibrant local energy, and if you’re lucky, you might even meet the friendly, plump black cat who is the restaurant’s mascot.
Must-Try: Exquisite Vegan Ramen Customizable to Your Liking
Mukuchi Kitchen & Bar’s ramen features a unique ordering system that allows you to combine your preferred ‘soup base’ and ‘flavor’. The ability to discover new tastes with every visit is one of the reasons it continuously draws in locals and repeat customers.
For those who prefer a lighter taste, we recommend the ‘Salt-flavored sugarcane clear soup’ paired with ‘Yuzu Kosho’ (citrus chili paste). The clear soup is accented with a zesty kick of pepper, and by squeezing the accompanying kumquat, a subtle sweetness and refreshing acidity spread through the aftertaste, creating a surprisingly profound bowl.
On the other hand, for those who love richer flavors, the ‘Oat milk dashi soup’ combined with ‘White Miso’ is a top choice. The distinct creaminess of oat milk shines through, offering a rich and satisfying experience akin to drinking a hearty tonkotsu (pork bone) broth. If you crave a kick, try the ‘Sichuan-style spicy soy milk ramen,’ generously topped with vegan minced meat. The balance of soy milk, oat milk’s saltiness, and the powerful spiciness is exquisite, providing a surprising depth that makes you forget it’s meat-free.
Definitely Repeat-Worthy! Star-Quality Side Dishes & Homemade Desserts
Beyond ramen, Mukuchi Kitchen & Bar’s thoughtfully crafted side dishes are a major draw. Many customers unanimously declare the ‘Pork Loin-style Tofu Cutlet’ a ‘must-order.’ Crispy and fragrant on the outside, fluffy and juicy on the inside, you’ll be amazed by its texture, which rivals real katsu.
Other popular choices include the ‘Asparagus and Yuba Rolled Sushi,’ where a sweet sauce perfectly intertwines with a crisp texture; the ‘Pumpkin Mayonnaise Rice,’ topped with sweet pumpkin for a poke bowl-like flavor; and the deeply aromatic ‘Vegetable Green Curry.’
For a post-meal treat, indulge in their homemade ‘Lemon Orange Cheesecake,’ made with oat milk. Its melt-in-your-mouth soft texture and the refreshing tartness of homemade jam are a perfect match. What’s even better is the affordable pricing for such high quality.
For Travelers & Long-Term Visitors: Real Tips and Things to Note
Mukuchi Kitchen & Bar can get quite crowded on weekends and holidays. For travelers or international students returning from language school who wish to enjoy their meal at a leisurely pace, it’s wise to aim for weekdays right after opening or during off-peak hours.
Ordering inside the restaurant follows a unique style: staff members come from the outdoor stall (kitchen area) to take your order. Payment is settled inside after your meal, and cutlery is self-service. The staff are very friendly and kind, so even if you’re a little hesitant about ordering in Chinese, you can relax and enjoy your visit.
The terrace seating under the arcade offers a wonderful, open atmosphere, but Taiwan’s summers can be humid, so it’s best to visit in light, cool clothing. Consider pairing your visit with sightseeing around Dihua Street’s retro charm and dried goods shops. After a tiring day of walking, stop by in the evening to recharge with a body-friendly vegan ramen.
