Five-Spice & Freedom, Gua Bao & Grit
At Taiwan’s legendary night markets, food stalls have long clustered around the city’s temples—so bringing them under the cathedral-like arches of Markthalle Neun feels like a natural fit. What’s served on the island's streets is diversity in action: over centuries, indigenous Austronesian roots fused with mainland Chinese migration, Japanese traces, and European influences. Shaped in the crosscurrents of colonialism and trade, it simmered into one of the world’s most fiercely independent melting pots.
Anyone familiar with Taipei’s night markets knows this isn’t just about filling your stomach—it’s about life itself. It’s a culinary expression of grit, freedom, and the quiet resilience of a vibrant democracy, served up in those little moments of happiness between fluffy gua baos, crispy Taiwanese fried chicken, and ice-cold lychee tea.
As part of Freedom Week Berlin and in collaboration with the Taipei Representative Office, Berlin, we’re bringing the spirit of these markets straight to Kreuzberg. Grab a pair of chopsticks and join us!