Payment

Taiwan doesn’t practice tipping. Prices are final, and attempting to tip often confuses service staff. Some upscale restaurants add a 10% service charge; this appears clearly on menus and receipts as 服務費. When service charges are included, this represents the total cost. No additional payment is expected or appropriate.

Cash remains dominant in Taiwan’s food culture, particularly at casual establishments, night markets, and traditional vendors. Always carry adequate cash in small denominations. Major credit cards work at chains and upscale restaurants, but many excellent local establishments remain cash-only.

Mobile payment apps (particularly Line Pay and Taiwan’s various QR code systems) have gained traction, though not universally. Some vendors display QR codes for payment; these typically require Taiwanese bank accounts or credit cards to set up, limiting usefulness for short-term visitors.

ATMs are ubiquitous in Taiwan (found in all convenience stores, Taipei Metro, plus standalone locations), making cash access straightforward. International cards work at most ATMs.