TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei City held its first Oil Rice Festival Saturday (Dec. 6), attracting thousands to celebrate the traditional dish. The event featured the "Fragrance of Oil Rice Banquet" and the "Top 10 Oil Rice Market," drawing crowds eager to taste iconic and innovative oil rice recipes. Limited banquet tickets sold out within 30 minutes, showcasing the strong appeal of New Taipei's folk cuisine.
Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) presented the "Craftsman Oil Rice Award," praising winners for preserving tradition through creativity. Hou emphasized New Taipei City's role as a microcosm of Taiwan, where diverse cultures converge to create a culinary hub. He noted that oil rice represents a classic folk dish, a staple of celebrations and daily life, symbolizing happiness.
Experts selected the top 10 oil rice dishes through more than 110,000 public votes for the inaugural festival. Hou expressed hope for the festival's continued promotion, honoring the city's cherished memories and citizens' contributions to the land. The event aims to preserve New Taipei's culinary heritage while celebrating residents who dedicated themselves to building the community.
A Pan Kung Fu Oil Rice (蘆洲阿潘功夫油飯) in Luzhou District won gold, while Yue Hua Oil Rice (月華油飯) in Xinzhuang District claimed silver and Da Wan Oil Rice (大碗油飯) in Sanchong District earned bronze. Stalls offered creative oil rice dishes with local ingredients, drawing long lines of eager tasters. The festival featured the "Oil Rice Master Sports Meet," allowing visitors to experience oil rice preparation through interactive games. ◼