Meinong 888 Hakka Flat Rice Noodles

Review

Meinong is the best-known Hakka community in southern Taiwan, and flat rice noodles are its signature rice dish, with noodle shops all over town. Meinong 888 Hakka Flat Rice Noodles is on Section 1 of Zhongxiao Road, outside the old-street core, but its wide menu and group-friendly portions have made it a regular choice for both visitors and local families. It received four stars in the Meinong farmers' association rating.

The star is the wok-fried flat rice noodles, tossed over high heat for a clear wok aroma, soft and chewy with a savory, well-seasoned flavor. The house signature is Thai-style spicy chicken, with crisp skin under a sour, spicy sauce, a must-order for many. Braised winter melon, ginger-shred intestines, fried water snowflake greens and aged radish chicken soup are also widely recommended. The menu also covers stir-fries, fried dishes, braised items and Hakka snacks, so it works for a solo bowl of noodles or a full shared spread. No reliable full price list was found, so check online or call before visiting.

Reviewers mostly praise the wide choice and rice-friendly flavors, with the fried noodles and spicy chicken being reasons to return. Some mention that large dishes can be made as half portions on request, letting two or three people try more. Negatives center on a fairly plain dining room, crowds and noise on weekends, and some dishes that are only average.

Hours are 10:30 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 20:00, closed Mondays. Without a reservation you may not get a table on weekends, so call ahead; there is both indoor and outdoor seating. It is not on the old street, so driving is easier, and it fits well before or after Meinong Lake or the Hakka Cultural Museum.

It suits families and friends who want to try many Hakka dishes at once, or first-time visitors who want to taste Meinong noodles. Two or three people can order a plate of fried noodles, the spicy chicken, braised winter melon or ginger intestines, and a bowl of aged radish chicken soup. For a small group, ask for half portions of the larger dishes.