
Famous stylist highlights HSR lunchbox, recommends over Taiwan Railway
When taking the train in Taiwan, it’s tradition to get a railway lunchbox. But which is your favorite: the classic Taiwan Railway bento, or the creative and refined HSR bento? Famous stylist Lee Ming-chuan recently got a meal on the HSR that he said subverted expectations and made him a convert.
Long lines of people are waiting even before the shop has opened. Whether they’re taking a train today or not, Taipei Main Station is a favorite destination for buying lunchboxes. Many people come for the classic Taiwan Railway porkchop. But recently, there’s another option that’s gained popularity.
One new fan of the HSR bento is Lee Ming-chuan, a famous stylist who often travels between northern and southern Taiwan. In a recent social media post, Lee said he changed his mind about the Taiwan Railway bento. He said that ever since the TR bento became like “stale coffee,” he’s lost interest in it. But he was surprised by the HSR lunchbox. Every part exceeded expectations, and the option to get two mains is a good deal. He said he might even betray Taiwan Railway.
Even this German blogger said he prefers the HSR lunchbox, and is amazed by its diverse offerings. Comparing the two, this classic Taiwan Railway bento has rice, a porkchop, non-GMO tofu skin, a braised egg, and seasonal vegetables for NT$100. On July 1, the HSR came out with two new meat and one new veggie option developed by a Kaohsiung airline caterer. One is a Chiayi chicken rice with pumpkin rice noodles, garnished with sakura shrimp. In addition to the two mains, it also comes with an egg, seasonal veggies, edamame, and tofu, all for NT$120. The low-fat and low-sodium option has also proven popular, while the HSR’s porkchop lunchbox competes head-to-head with Taiwan Railway.
For some, the Taiwan Railway lunchbox can’t be replaced, while others like the HSR’s new spin on a classic. By the numbers, the HSR prepares a little over 1,000 per day, while the Taiwan Railway makes 25,000. But both are excellent options, and inspire their own loyal fans.
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2025-09-15