A weekly editorial guide to eating, drinking, and being out in Taichung. Written by people who live here. Not a feed.
Souvenirs are not merely the endpoint of a journey but an extension of a city’s culture. The 2026 Taichung Top Ten Gifts showcase a mature and diverse range—from innovative reinterpretations of traditional pastries to distinctive products that blend design with everyday aesthetics—collectively painting a flavorful cultural landscape unique to Taichung. Within the pastry category, distinct […] More
Touted as the most iconic industry exhibition of its kind in Asia, Taichung Bike Week will take place September 16 to 19. Recognized as the bicycle industry’s most important trade gathering, the event is designed specifically for mid-to high-end component OEM manufacturers, complete bicycle product managers, and traders, serving as a B2B trade show where […] More
2024 Central Taiwan ‘Dragon’ Lantern Festival 2024中臺灣元宵燈會「龍」重登場 2024年中臺灣元宵燈會訂於2月16日在全臺最大的都會公園—臺中市中央公園「龍」重登場，接連10天一路展至2月25日。今年主題「臺中龍賀」富有趣味，以臺語諧音「龍賀」有「樣樣好」之意，傳遞臺中樣樣好，是幸福宜居的城市，歡迎大家到臺中賞燈、享美食、旅遊，感受美好生活的魅力之都。 中市府打造8大主題燈區 創造豐富多元視覺饗宴 本屆燈會以生肖「龍」為主要意象，結合中央公園地景地貌，打造天然華麗奇幻場景，佈展區域達15公頃，由臺中市觀旅局攜手教育局、農業局、民政局與建設局共同規劃8個主題燈區，包含主燈「臺中龍賀」、「馬卡龍」、「夢境森林」、「誰在呼攏」、「小小backpacker賞燈趣」、「翠谷之心」、「Party龍」及「龍之異次元」，大力展現各式創意燈組，讓您沉浸在這場視覺饗宴之中。 全臺首創！ 水上遊行機械花燈結合主燈秀 今年龍年主燈設計將中央公園滯洪池水域幻化為劇場舞臺，身高12米、身長達76米的神龍盤踞在乾溼滯洪池的分界線上，造型氣派壯觀，搭配發光立方體展演秀，透過舞者旋轉拋接立方體，猶如神龍把玩著龍珠，呈現一場精彩絕倫的主燈大秀。 BOX 臺中賀龍燈區精彩演出 主燈秀 2/16(五)-2/25(日) 18:00-21:00，每整點一場。 開幕晚會 2/16(五) 18:20-20:00 舞鈴劇場、原舞曲文化藝術團、日本青森縣-平川市睡魔演奏組 閉幕晚會 2/25(日) 19:30-21:00 遇見喬安娜拉丁爵士樂團、賴建宇老師暨黃氏家族樂團、查馬克打擊合唱團、日本鳥取鏘鏘鈴音大使 圖說：置身在夢幻甜蜜的馬卡龍世界 BOX 馬卡龍燈區創意聚活動 攏來大聲唱-街頭歌唱表演 2/17(六)、2/24(六) 17:00-17:30 奇幻魔術之旅-近距離魔術互動秀 2/17(六)、2/24(六) 17:30-18:00 摺出幸福-小提燈DIY 2/18(日)、2/25(日) 17:30-18:00 ※每場開始前30分鐘開放現場報名，每場限額10組。 圖說：結合現地花草樹木的靜謐夢境森林 圖說：誰在呼攏?KUSO的你找得到有幾隻龍嗎? 圖說：小小Backpacker賞燈趣-奇幻閱世界 圖說：跟隨冒險家石虎探索神秘星球翠谷之心 圖說：Party龍一起 Party All Night Long BOX Party龍燈區精彩派對活動 全民放電派對 2/17(六)18:10-18:50 Party龍好耍、相揪拿好禮 2/17(六) […] More
Upon entering Le Beret Bleu, the strong impression that you’re walking into a bakery somewhere in France isn’t a misleading one. The fragrance of fresh baked bread fills the air and a cornucopia of selections fills display cases, as natural light warmly illuminates a relaxing 28-seat interior with wooden tables, chairs and floors. More significantly, […] More
After a nine-year hiatus, Taiwan’s National Day fireworks show will once again light up Taichung’s night skies, ensuring that the city will be packed with an abundance of exciting events in October, from amazing pyrotechnics to the driving rhythms of rock music and melodies of jazz. Nonstop exciting events: Oct. 7-8 Rock in Taichung─’Fly To […] More
This vegan restaurant, jointly operated by Malaysian and Taiwanese owners, doesn’t use eggs, dairy or the five common pungent spices (like garlic). Despite its small size, Y.N. Vegetarian serves outstanding, delicious dishes with a touch of Southeast Asian flavors. Various spices such as curry, lemongrass, galangal, turmeric and chili, plus other Indonesian and Malaysian ingredients, […] More
Taiwanese are no strangers to vending machines and their mechanical cousins, the ubiquitous claw game machines. Introduced to Taiwan in 2020, Pop Mart Robo Shop takes this concept to an entirely new level and has been steadily growing in number and popularity across the nation, including Taichung, which currently has four of these intelligent machines, […] More
黎小安/文 By Ann Li If you were born in the ‘50s or ‘60s and grew up in Taichung, you’ll probably be familiar with “cao dai fan” (草袋飯), or “grass bag rice”, which was once incredibly popular. Originally located on GuangFu Road and helping pioneer this dish, Chin Chih Yuan restaurant has been around for 50-plus […] More
April Chiu originally studied architecture but started making bagels and selling them online about two years ago, driven by a desire to offer a softer bagel preferred by Taiwanese. In July, she opened this relaxing, spacious-feeling, simply decorated cafe, with soothing light colors and wooden furniture. Her selection of 6-7 brunch bagel sandwiches (NT$95-120)–with 3-4 […] More
Sicily native Dario Di Falco originally came to Taiwan on a short-term business assignment. However, after falling in love with this island, he informed his colleagues he would be staying longer-term. A search for a new business venture, a longing for cuisine from his homeland and his years as a professional chef led to this […] More
When I visited this classy, intimate-feeling cocktail bar, I was immediately surprised to discover it was opened by a young Singaporean couple, Tim Ang and YY Lai. The road leading them to open (we)GoodLife in November 2022 included a Singaporean friend with a Taichung bar (Vender) and a desire to pursue new horizons and dreams. […] More
Since its inauguration, the Taichung Tourist Bus Route 153-Guguan Line has earned popularity among many travelers. In addition to enjoying must-see mountainous attractions like Shigang, Dongshi and Guguan along its route, you can now also participate in the Romantic Route 3 Art Festival, organized for the second year by the Executive Yuan’s Hakka Affairs Council […] More
自臺中觀光公車153谷關線推出以來，受到許多旅客的喜愛，沿途除了停靠石岡、東勢、谷關等山線必訪景點外，現在還可參觀由行政院客家委員會辦理的「第二屆浪漫台三線藝術季」，探訪山城的絕代風華。 浪漫台三線 用藝術點亮山城 「第二屆浪漫台三線藝術季」共分為三個展區；其中座落於第三展區的臺中東勢區為整個展區的最南端，11個藝術作品主要分散於東勢客家文化園區、東勢林業文化園區及大茅埔三處周邊，融合在地生活、文化、生態、歷史故事、產業等元素，讓客家文化不僅得以保留傳承，並且賦予現代意義。展出將持續至今年8月27日止，歡迎搭乘臺中觀光公車153谷關線至「東勢站」、「東勢林業文化園區站」、「大茅埔站」等站，散步觀賞客庄藝術之美。 石岡─東勢─谷關，尋訪山城的靜好時光 臺中是台三線客庄浪漫大道南端入口，擁有許多豐富的文化資產及自然資源，而穿梭在台中山林的臺中觀光公車153谷關線，讓旅客出遊更方便。自高鐵臺中站出發，沿途停靠許多熱門景點，風光明媚，景色宜人，值得一探！ 綠意盎然的「東豐自行車綠廊」，充滿舊鐵道人文風景，適合親子共遊或熱愛攝影的旅客到訪；還可順遊「九房3D彩繪村」，栩栩如生的畫作躍然於眼前，帶你進入童話世界。 東勢地區則有融合林業歷史與生態的「東勢林業文化園區」，以及充滿傳統風情的「東勢客家文化園區」，鑑古知今，從一磚一瓦看見當代客家風華。谷關區域生態山林資源豐富，擁有獨特「山・嵐・霧」美景，溫泉美食與獨特原民文化令人醉心不已。春夏可漫遊山林，在綠意的環抱下舒緩身心，秋冬則可來趟泡湯輕旅行，是一年四季都適合的熱門景點。 除了景色優美宜人之外，還有東勢、白冷特色小吃、客家經典菜餚，及東勢特有的灌蛋餅、必比登全牛料理等佳餚。如果有時間的話，也非常推薦安排二日行程，悠閒的漫遊臺中山城。 歡迎趁著假期，來場與山城的浪漫相遇，遊客庄、嚐在地、品藝術！「第二屆浪漫台三線藝術季」詳細活動點位可參閱活動網站；更多的乘車資訊及遊程安排，請至臺中觀光旅遊網「臺中觀光公車專區」查詢。 More
By Kseniia Dubinina From the outside, Tor Dāy looks like an ordinary building without any indication of what’s inside, making it feel like a secret that you can share with your friends when you come there for a drink or a late-night meal. The restaurant-style bar offers a wide variety of traditional Taiwanese dishes (NT$220-320), […] More
This large classy, attractive bar (whose name means “spirit/soul” in Arabic) is located on the second floor of Chilliesine Indian Restaurant’s Chaofu branch. Up to 60 can relax in the atmospherically illuminated premises, with Indian and other exotic decorative highlights, and enjoy romantic evening views of 7th Redevelopment Zone skyscrapers and Maple Garden Park across […] More
To provide a peaceful living environment and better quality of life for residents, Taichung City Government initiated a two-month “Quiet and Calm City Project” in mid-April. This includes joint efforts by the Taichung City Government Environmental Protection Bureau, Police Department and Motor Vehicles Office, with each agency carrying out specialized tasks in a collaboration to […] More
台中市政府環境保護局 廣告 To accelerate efforts toward Taichung City’s 2050 zero carbon emission goal, alleviate the economic impact of the pandemic, and reduce the public’s financial burden when purchasing electric motor scooters this year, older phase 1 through 4 scooters are being categorized into three categories to encourage the public to purchase electric scooters via added […] More
Hausinc Cafe, once ranked among Taiwan’s 25 best coffee shops, has expanded into a century-old Japanese-style building with its new Hausinc 1035 branch as part of the 1035 Collab team between four different brands. The number “1035” is derived from the telephone number of this building during the Japanese colonial era and represents the new […] More
Located near Shuinan Market and identified only with a small “Beiping” sign, this little no-frills eatery is a classic Taiwanese family-run “hole-in-the-wall” serving delicious, reasonably-priced Chinese cuisine. The restaurant was first opened in Taipei about 40 years ago by owner Wang Wei-hua’s father, a native of Shandong province, before moving to Taichung in 1993. Today, […] More
The noodle dishes here are rather ordinary-looking but offer unforgettable flavors, as shown by the fact that this little shop earned a 2020 Michelin Bib Gourmand recommendation. The delicious noodles are paired with succulent, thick-sliced pork ribs in the signature Pork Ribs Noodles (NT$120/large). Other top dishes include Beef Noodles (NT$140/large) and Preserved Vegetables Noodles, […] More
You won’t find many Taichung restaurants that have survived for more than 60 years, but Qin Yuan Chun is one of them. Currently managed by a fourth generation of owners and recognized with a Michelin Bib Gourmand ranking, this establishment dates back to 1949 and retains a nostalgic ambiance from bygone days, with bamboo steamers […] More
Rare French Cuisine & Bar ticks all the right boxes when it comes to a fine dining establishment: Creative, delicious cuisine from a chef with international experience at Michelin-rated establishments. Refined, upscale ambiance and excellent service. An impressive, extensive selection of fine wines and other spirits, introduced by an experienced sommelier. A beautiful, inviting bar […] More
Named after a Hindu sacred plant and goddess, this attractive, cozy Indian restaurant was opened in April by Chandan Singh and business partner/chef Baraf Singh and aims to offer authentic cuisine from their northern Indian homeland. Served in generous portions, their dishes include some unique items like Handi Chicken or Mutton (NT$350/400)–milder, still flavorful, curry […] More
Celine 廖家瑩 Xuhe Interior Design 敘禾設計 Thirteen Cafe’s motto, “Together is Better”, reflects its goal of creating togetherness with its tranquil setting–featuring about 16 seats and a private room with a cozy sofa–in a Beitun District neighborhood. Owner Celine focuses on offering her favorite healthy meals, including sourdough bread items in her selection of light, […] More
Warm spring days are ideal for venturing outside and enjoying a colorful world filled with greenery and blooming flowers. This is also the perfect opportunity to organize a leisurely picnic or go camping with friends to enjoy some special times in nature. Encounter urban greenery, enjoy limitless fun in coastal, mountain areas Mayor Lu Shiow-yen […] More
By Steven Crook To catch glimpses of Taiwan as it used to be, few places are better than Lukang (鹿港). Between the first quarter of the 18th century and the middle of the 19th century, this coastal town—27 kilometers southwest of central Taichung as the crow flies—was second only to the former capital Tainan as […] More
From the moment you walk in the door, it’s pretty obvious that 99 Bottles isn’t your average liquor store. A closer look at the attractive displays reveals a truly exceptional, international variety of whiskies, brandies, wines and other spirits that aren’t found anywhere else. Besides some very unique Scotch single malts, there are also high-end […] More
Flaming Fish Alley is yet more evidence that good things often come in small packages. Located in the older Mofan Street-Dahe Road neighborhood that is home to a growing number of creative establishments, this place has a modest entrance marked only by a small sign, blue awning and two camping chairs that provide a smoking […] More
By Jocelyn J.J. 林姵妏 Nishinari’s owner’s passion for coffee, discovered during his university days, eventually developed into the opening of this coffee house six years ago. Frequented by loyal repeat customers and nearby residents, it caters to connoisseurs and offers high-quality coffees made from beans roasted in-house and sourced from all over the world, including […] More
Every time I walk by this small noodle shop in the Tunghai commercial district, I enjoy the aroma of pork noodles. This fragrance helps draw customers inside for a taste of its so-called energy noodles. These curvy noodles are all handmade and, before being dumped into a boiling cooking pot, are hand-kneaded and massaged to […] More
When Edward Ho and his wife opened this little 13-seat restaurant, they offered just four kinds of ramen. However, in the eight years since then, they have earned many loyal customers and expanded their menu to nine main ramen options (NT$150-320) that highlight Mr. Ho’s special variations on this Japanese favorite. These include both milder/lighter […] More
Taichung Central Park was once the site of Shuinan Airport but, after this site’s transformation into a park, is not only a venue for Taichung City Government picnic events and new year’s eve countdowns but also a favorite destination among residents for leisure activities, gatherings and exercise. Its recently-unveiled aviation-themed visitor center is the first […] More
台中市政府環境保護局 廣告 Air quality in Taichung is better than ever! Through the efforts of all parties in recent years, Taichung City’s PM2.5 index now meets the national standard. According to Taiwan Environmental Protection Administration data, the annual PM2.5 concentration during the past year (2022) was 12.7 μg/m3, better than that of 2018. The annual average […] More
Phoenix Hotel Taichung, affiliated with Evergreen Resort Hotel Jiaoxi, offers this large second-floor brunch buffet restaurant (open 7 a.m.-1 p.m.) under the management of experienced chef Wu Jian-ping. With stylish industrial-style decor and black and gray tones, the spacious, comfortable interior accommodates about 500 in a well-organized L-shaped seating area. There’s also a children’s play […] More
This casual, upscale European continental-style restaurant was opened in late 2020 by Jay Liu and fellow chef Kurt Huang on a quiet corner between SongZhu and ChangPing roads and its English name refers to the character “yi” (made of four “fire” characters) in its Chinese name. The wide range of creative dishes here combine French-Italian […] More
Names for translator: 橘子布藝術 Original Colors Art 江希宜 Chiang Shi Yi 王呈豪 Wang Cheng Hao 王怡雯 Wang Yi Wen This cafe is rooted in art education brand Original Colors Art, founded by Chiang Shi Yi, who has been teaching kids for 35 years about the value of artistic self-expression and enjoyment. Combining the artistic and culinary backgrounds of […] More
The globally-famous World Baseball Classic (WBC) tournament is returning to Taichung this month for the first time in a decade. Pool A preliminaries are scheduled to take place at the city’s Intercontinental Baseball Stadium March 8 to 12 and will include national teams from Taiwan, Panama, Cuba, the Netherlands, Italy and other nations. The hard-fought, […] More
Since opening on Feb. 4, the 2023 Central Taiwan Lantern Festival has been a popular success, attracting many visitors with its animated over-the-water lantern and light show. Due to the very positive public response, the Taichung City Government Construction Bureau has announced that extra events are being added to the festival. In addition to an […] More
台中觀光旅遊網 Travel and Tourism Bureau of Taichung City Government Welcoming the Year of the Rabbit, the 2023 Central Taiwan Lantern Festival will take place for nine days from Feb. 4 to 12. This year’s festival is moving to Taichung Central Park in the Shuinan area and its main lantern display will be Taiwan’s largest–a 10-meter-tall […] More
Sponsored by the Taichung City Information Bureau If finding the right gift or souvenir has ever been on your mind, you’re in luck. The 14th annual Top 10 Taichung Gifts Festival will be taking place soon in 2023 at specially awarded businesses, helping to ensure that you’ll be able to find that unique Taichung item […] More
Taichung residents and visitors wanting to sample, savor and enjoy the best that this city has to offer will be excited that one of central Taiwan’s longest-running, most popular annual events is returning to Taichung Civic Square on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5-6. Organized by Compass Magazine to showcase the city, the 2022 Compass International […] More
Words and photos provided by Industrial Development & Investment Promotion Committee of Taichung City (IDIPC) Translated by Anna Yang Taichung is famed as Taiwan’s “Pastry Hometown”. In order to help you discover the city’s best pastry gifts, the Industrial Development and Investment Promotion Committee (IDIPC) of Taichung City organizes annual “Top 10 Taichung Gifts” selection […] More
Sponsored by the Taichung City Economic Development Bureau With Covid-19 having an increased, significant impact on Taiwan, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) raised the nation to a Level 3 alert status on May 19. On May 23, Taichung City Mayor Lu Shiow-yen held a press conference to announce relief funding for many businesses affected […] More
Sponsored by the Taichung City Environmental Protection Bureau With the continued spread of Covid-19, Taichung City Government Environmental Protection Bureau recently promoted its “5055 Sterilization Method”, which has earned a positive public response. In cooperation with this effort, village chiefs from Xitun District’s He Chang Village, West District’s An Long Village and Wufeng District’s Wan […] More
Words by 陳芷柔 Vivi Chen, Jasmin Nguyen 阮武慶芸, 陳德倫 Daniel Matero It can often feel like there aren’t that many activities or places to visit during the lunar new year in Taichung, as many businesses close and the downtown streets empty for a few days. However, with a bit a thought and planning, you will […] More
A woman will dress up for the person she likes! It’s a natural instinct to enjoy beauty and, besides skincare and makeup, nail care is becoming trendy. New nail care salons and studios offering manicures, nail polishing, gel nails and sculptured colored nails have continued to open. While such places provide similar services, finding the […] More
Established in the first year of the Republic of China, this bookstore has survived for over a century and was recently relaunched to continue its mission to younger generations in a high-tech era. Third-generation owner Xu Qin-zhong headed up a team that spent two years renovating the shop, which now features a book collection including […] More
“Vendering happiness” is the slogan owners Darren Lim and Summer Chen chose for this unique cocktail bar, hidden on the Art Museum Parkway behind a door that appears to be a vending machine. The two met in Darren’s hometown of Singapore and decided to combine their food-and-beverage experience and open this place. The classy interior […] More
If you enjoy discovering single-origin coffees, Waka Cafe’s adorable wood decor is the perfect setting to start your treasure hunt. Shelves are filled with a variety of coffee drip bags from around the world, including Panama, Costa Rica, Kenya and Ethiopia, allowing you to find almost any flavor you might want. Another unique aspect of […] More
You can enjoy Taiwanese delicacies at this restaurant, regardless of whether you’re dining alone or with a group of friends or relatives, with its modern-feeling, quiet ambiance providing a nice setting for a coffee and meal. Shin Yuan was listed among the Michelin Guide’s 2020 Bib Gourmand selection of recommended eateries, and its owner likes […] More
With a pizzeria that remains popular after over 18 years in business, it would be easy to keep everything just the way it is. However, Salut owner Danielle Huang isn’t resting on her laurels, making some attractive recent changes that include renovations to give a fresh, more upscale feel to the premises, seating about 50 […] More
This restaurant offers a cornucopia of dishes and flavors, with the Amber Roasted Goose (NT$480-1,700) being the main menu focus. Other authentic Chinese dishes (NT$180-520) include Sichuan Stir-Fry; Mixed Squid and Escargot with Garlic; Dong Po Pork with Wine; Stir-Fried Minced Meat with Chives; Pork Belly with Pickled Cabbage Hotpot (NT$180-520). All items are prepared with […] More
As Hawaii remains one of my favorite places in the world, I am always delighted to encounter any reminder of the Aloha State in Taichung. Undoubtedly, the best local place to do this is Kua’Aina Burger & Sandwich at Mitsui Outlet Park. This restaurant and a sister eatery at Mitsui’s mall in New Taipei City’s […] More
Tucked into a quiet alley near the always-busy Fengjia Night Market, Date With Poke offers delicious and nutritious meals. The menu is small with only a few meals and drinks on offer, but what they do offer is excellent and doesn’t cost too much. Walking into the restaurant, customers are greeted by upbeat music and […] More
A variety of handmade, rarely-seen Southeast Asian style hotpots featuring Laksa, Coconut, Bakuteh, and Tom Yam Kung flavors are offered with many fresh ingredients at this restaurant. Besides soup bases (NT$79-99) and chicken, pork, US beef and wagyu beef meat platters (NT$178-1,188), other dishes include Thai Basil Chili Pork over Rice; Crisp Fried Bread Sticks; […] More
NYC is the inspiration for this swanky new Naked Cafe branch, located next door to its previous MeiCun premises (to be renovated/reopened later). Natural light pours in through glass walls onto the stylish black and white tiled floors and walls, with indoor/outdoor seating for over 80. A variety of new food and drink offerings also […] More
When a young Edward Schwartz joined the Buddhist ashram Mind of Pure Enlightenment (MOPE), he unwittingly took on more than he bargained for. Originally MOPE focussed on standard Buddhist practices, but like some ashrams of the era eventually added sex and drugs into the mix, boosting its popularity and attracting famous devotees–but also like many […] More
Words and photos provided by Industrial Development & Investment Promotion Committee of Taichung City (IDIPC) How do you plan to spend the three-day vacation to welcome 2021? If you don’t have anything planned yet, we recommend that you consider a unique New Year holiday with little-known Taichung scenic attractions and its most popular souvenirs. Announced […] More
Words and photos provided by Industrial Development & Investment Promotion Committee of Taichung City (IDIPC) OKLAO Specialty Coffee Drip Coffee Bag Gift Box: 2019 World Coffee Roasting Championship Champion X Taichung Xinshe Coffee Established in 2009, OKLAO focuses on global estate grown coffee beans. This coffee shop chain also won the World Coffee Roasting Championship, […] More
Sponsored by the Taichung Environmental Protection Bureau Do you bring your own tableware when you dine out? Do you know such practices are environmentally-friendly and can save you money? Are there any paper tableware recycling bins at the cafeterias and box-meal shops you visit? Used paper tableware that is dumped in the trash without recycling […] More
The sheer variety of restaurants, cafes, teahouses, bars, shops and entertainment found in a constantly changing city like Taichung can be near impossible to capture or encapsulate in a single event. However, over the past 17 years, Compass Magazine’s annual Compass Taichung International Food & Music Festival has worked hard to do just that. Since […] More
“What? Are you crazy?” is what Canadian author John Groot’s wife asked when he announced his plan to walk the entire coastline of Taiwan. A good question to be sure, but his perseverance over eight years of walking has produced a remarkably enjoyable book that is a journey around Taiwan on three levels: The walk […] More
This advertisement is provided by the Agriculture Bureau, Taichung City Government. Every June and July, Taichung has an abundant harvest of lychees. In particular, lychees cultivated in Taiping, Dali, Wufeng, Shengang and Beitun districts are extra sweet and juicy with unique flavors, making them especially popular.Besides fruit, Taichung City Government is also promoting ‘cold chain’ […] More
This advertisement is provided by the Tourism and Travel Bureau, Taichung City Government. In order to provide travelers with safe and healthy hotel stays, Taichung City Government has launched its Reassured Accommodation Plan in cooperation with city guest residences. To date, 255 city residences have passed related inspections. All participating businesses are required to follow […] More
An abundance of colorful dried flowers decorating the walls adds to the coziness of the sofa dining area at this small bistro, which offers light meals and alcoholic beverages together with a homey, comfortable ambiance, reasonable prices and long business hours. The hand-written menu features several pasta, rice and deep-fried food items options (NT$150-220), such […] More
This restaurant offers a mix menu and menu-less teppanyaki and other Japanese meals and dishes. Located near Dakeng Scenic Area’s Lantien Baiyun Bridge, Shang Hong also provides spacious indoor-outdoor dining areas, a white sandbox for kids, and convenient parking. Business lunches start from NT$490 and menu-less meals (NT$1,600-2,000) are made from fresh ingredients of the […] More
This meticulously-designed two-floor hostel (whose name means “nest” in Japanese) fills the need for a true international standard hostel in Taichung. Rooms with each anywhere from two, three, four and up to 10 beds (bunk beds NT$450/night weekdays, NT$650/Sat. & holidays; add NT$200 for larger normal beds) are found on male and female floors; mixed-gender […] More
Adam Bruce was born in 1993, the year that his father Dereke Bruce founded Finga’s. Now, father, son and the Finga’s staff have relocated this long-running deli and grocery store shop, uniting it with their central kitchen/bakery facility. Like before, there are 45-50 breads (sourdough, whole wheat, rye, como, focaccia, bagels, croissants, etc.); 10-15 pastries […] More
Cafe Task has the same owner as downstairs Boneef restaurant (see other “What’s New” article) but is a completely separate establishment. Delightful features include an entrance disguised as a bookshelf, swinging open to reveal a secretive, club-like atmosphere with red-brick arches, green marble tables, dark blue walls, lots of brass highlights, and covered-over pool table. […] More
The former Little Italy Art Parkway branch has been completely transformed into this attractive Taiwanese pork ribs and American beef ribs restaurant by its interior decorator owner, who also opened the separate Cafe Task upstairs (see other “What’s New” article). Seating 40, the first-floor interior is a striking combination of white walls; medium-hued wooden tables, […] More
ATC (“alcohol, tea, coffee”) has an elegant modern bistro-style ambiance that includes a bar, sofa area, tea and art area, dining space, and reading area for those wanting more privacy. The interior also mixes a lot of greenery into its stylish, classic and zen-like atmosphere. Teas include Alishan Oolong Tea, Taipei Muzha District Tieguanyin, and […] More
Now recruiting business participants! As long as their total purchases are NT$500 or more, customers are eligible to participate in the lucky-draw raffle event. For this event, the value of purchases made at any participating business will be tripled!We are recruiting businesses to sign up for this program until June 12. All Taichung businesses are […] More
臺中市政府觀光旅遊局 廣告 Sponsored by the Taichung Tourism and Travel Bureau In order to ensure that visitors enjoy safe, healthy stays in the city, Taichung City Government launched its “Accommodation Reassurance Plan” on March 24 in cooperation with local hotels and other residences. Taichung has a total of 512 hotels and homestays eligible for participation in […] More
Huoyan Mountain (Huoyanshan), located on the border of Miaoli County’s Sanyi and Yuanli townships, is included among Taiwan’s top “hundred small peaks” and was voted No. 1 on an online hiking-trails survey. Its attributes include unique scenery, featuring sharp bare hills, a convenient location, accessible trails that only take about three hours to hike, and […] More
This modern-looking shop sells daily-living products that are mostly from Japan and displayed on open shelves that make browsing here convenient. Items include many attractively-packaged Japanese cookies, candies, drinks, cosmetics and skin-care products, as well as Japanese sakes. There are also appliances like electronic cooking pots, ovens, heaters, and vacuum cleaners. This wide range of […] More
With quality drinks and a regular clientele comprised mainly of young business professionals, Sensation Lounge Bar prides itself on offering customers an atmospheric and customer-oriented nightlife experience. The flashing lights, hip music, social atmosphere, and expertly mixed cocktails have kept a steady stream of patrons returning time and time again. Bartender Venus (formerly of Saobao […] More
Founded in Kaohsiung in 2015, this place showcases traditional and modern Taiwanese teas and dining delicacies in a youthful-feeling contemporary setting that includes classic decorative elements inspired by Taichung railway history and culture. Customers can enjoy local, quality hot and cold teas (NT$160-240), including Oriental Beauty, Alishan’s Jin Xuan Oolong, and Hualien’s Honey Black teas. […] More
At first glance this unassuming place looks like a typical tea shop on the outside and convenience store inside, with shelves and fridges filled with snacks, drinks and other packaged products. However, the tables and seating for about 20 in the back (plus some outside tables) and a respectable food/drinks menu have made it a […] More
Japanese owners Jin Nakayama and Naomi Hada, both long-time Taiwan residents, opened their izakaya bar/restaurant last June in a popular neighborhood near Civic Square and Calligraphy Greenway. There is seating for about 50 in the cozy interior, plus a 10-person private room and some outside tables. The sizable menu offers a variety of izakaya and […] More
The name of this swanky-looking hot pot restaurant (adjacent to Karuizawa massage center and Texas Roadhouse) refers to its most unique selling point—fresh, 18-degree, non-frozen beef, delivered daily from the Tainan farm where it is raised, ensuring outstanding texture, juiciness and flavor. Prior to Win 18’s opening a couple years ago, this delicacy was largely confined […] More
Taichungers sometimes forget what many outsiders–including Taipei visitors–love about this city: Its many world-class dining experiences for very reasonable prices. I was reminded of this when revisiting The Prime – Grill & Lounge on the top floor of Millennium Hotel Taichung. The upscale, soothing ambiance is wonderful day or night, with a high curving wooden […] More
This stylish, modern bakery is the perfect quiet getaway to enjoy peace and quiet with delicIous baked goods, including a selection of daily, fresh-made pastries such as tarts, croissants, cookies and cheesecakes. The most popular item is the Dark Chocolate Cheesecake (NT$65), a rich, decadent treat made with high-quality dark chocolate from France. There is […] More
If you’re looking for a truly unique central Taiwan destination, how about the chance to learn where your pork comes from at Taiwan’s most modern pork carving factory? Located in Yunlin County and offering total processing transparency, Nextland combines the pork industry with local culture and creativity. Honored with the opportunity to cooperate with Cornell […] More
If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy reasonably-priced vegetarian dining, art exhibitions and shopping for Buddhist texts and artsy gift items, this place has it all covered. Besides its mission of promoting Buddhist culture and thought, the shop is divided into three areas (on the right as you enter via the front door)–an art gallery, […] More
臺中市風景區管理所 廣告 Sponsored by Taichung City Scenic Area Administration The Wuhan coronavirus situation has left many people feeling like they’d rather be staying at home. However, in order to ward off this disease you need to boost your immune system with a balanced diet, regular exercise and plenty of rest time. To help with this, […] More
Captain Joker welcomes customers with a pirate ship-like atmosphere, including an anchor adorning the hallway and leading you upstairs via what feels a bit like a secret passage to a slightly-mysterious Japanese-style bar. The hunt for treasure takes place on a specially-designed menu filled with a variety of beers, cocktails and soft drinks–complemented by some […] More
“The revolution of society’s conscience” notes a sign in this warm-feeling store, filled with wooden decorations and popular with teachers and students from the nearby Lei-chuan Waldorf Experimental High School. The shop offers not only books and teaching materials, but also dining, food products, daily-needs items and, every Tuesday, a farmer’s market, plus Saturday seminars […] More
Although it’s been seven years since this restaurant opened, its premises are still enriched with its interesting background, passion and art, offering diners a friendly ambiance to enjoy food and drink. When not preparing quality dining fare, the chef enjoys studying the culture of exotic cuisine and wine, and befriending the many customers drawn to […] More
This eatery is famed for the abundance of fresh vegetables that go into its healthy, delicious hot pots. The soup base is made with herbs, chicken bones, amomum fruit, cardamon and Angelica sinensis (female ginseng), and simmered for 10 hours, resulting in a natural, fresh taste that complements and enhances the natural flavors of meats […] More
Although true love can’t be replaced by gold and other material things, Valentine’s Day certainly is the time for creative expressions of your affection. Whether it’s giving flowers, enjoying a romantic dinner or seeing a movie together, the important thing is to spend time with your special someone. However, if your favorite restaurant is overbooked […] More
The setting here includes ’80s-90s music and a cozy, modern ambiance, created by confident bartender Jeven, who once worked at a five-star hotel and always dreamt of opening her own creative bistro. She regularly collaborates with Wu La La’s experienced chef to create and promote new eastern-western fusion dishes. She also stays in the bar […] More
This recently-opened cafe/bistro is a pleasant surprise along an old alleyway, with displayed knickknacks and soft music making it a relaxing venue. The shop’s menu, designed by the owner, includes a Mexican Quesadilla (NT$180-250) with four options (cheese, beef, chicken, pulled pork) and is served with tortilla chips, salsa sauce and sour cream, which makes […] More
Wine Not is the first Taichung wine-tasting shop to focus on natural wines. Professional sommelier/owner Max offers nearly a hundred such wines from Europe, North America, Australia, Japan and Taiwan. Jokingly describing his business as a “soul-searching pharmacy”, he believes that his selection offers excellent flavors, with the origins and winemaking processes of these wines […] More
This restaurant’s Tibetan owner, Tenzin, hails from Ladakh in northern India, where the movie “3 Idiots” was filmed. He has enjoyed studying Tibetan and Indian cooking since a young age and the menu here contains reasonably-priced dishes with these exotic influences and flavors. A special item is MoMo (10 steamed dumplings) stuffed with either pork […] More
Delhi Bistro stands out in a number of ways, offering high-quality food and service for lower prices and doing a good job at adjusting flavors to the Taiwanese palate, which makes it a good option for those who want milder, less-spicy Indian cuisine. A sampling of dishes includes Mix Veg Pokara (NT$120), featuring soft vegetables […] More
There are a plethora of activities and clubs to be found in Taichung, but none with the classic appeal of pool and darts. From friendly games to serious competitions, for new players and veterans alike, these games are always easy to play but take a lifetime to master. You can play for two weeks and […] More
Words and photos provided by Industrial Development & Investment Promotion Committee of Taichung City (IDIPC) Taichung’s “Top 10 Gifts Festival” contest, now in its 11th year, always sees winning shops attracting large numbers of visitors and becoming popular destinations for gift and souvenir purchases. This year’s contest, hosted by the Industrial Development & Investment Promotion […] More
Tokushio is a good place to find material for fabric-related crafts, as the “DIY Crafts World” notation on this two-floor shop reminds shoppers. Its variety of products include yarn (NT$10), wool-knitting tools (NT$35-480), DIY bags (NT$60-160), beads (NT$30-450), accessories (NT$30-40), Chinese knots, all kinds of wires (NT$30-300, handle ribbons (NT$30-400), patchwork supplies (NT$30-40), plastic flowers […] More
When I ask Taichung foreign friends what’s their favorite Taichung bar, this place often comes up. For drinks, there are many beer options (from NT$150), plus fragrant wines, cocktails and shots. The rich fruit and coconut flavored Coconut Sunset (NT$180) is recommended and, if you’re looking for something stronger and more heart-pounding, try Red Lips […] More
Outside this place, you can observe the pastry chef sifting flour, making and molding dough, as the kitchen staff takes its time preparing various refined dishes. Inside, Chinese calligraphy, furniture and tea sets are on display, reflecting the inspiration behind zen-style garden landscapes. Shop owner Eva–from Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province–has a passion for tea-making with delicate […] More
With delicious hamburger buns, fresh lettuce and tomatoes, Lettuce Burger.Sub allows burger fans to create their own tasty dream burger of choice. No burger is too tall as customers can add as many meat patties and as much peanut butter, cheese and egg as they desire. Standard burgers include one layer of meat, such as […] More
By appearance, Tang Family looks like any neighborhood restaurant, perhaps a little neater and cleaner than most. The food is what is special. Considerable thought and care has gone into making the dishes here a step above. The cook, Tang Meizhen (唐美珍), from Hunan Province in China, brings some special touches to Taiwanese classics–making them […] More
While Taichung is home to thousands of restaurants, finding one that has been around for a long time and stands out for its unique characteristics and quality narrows down the field significantly. Among such places is this authentic Cantonese dim sum eatery, next to Taichung Folklore Park, which is usually packed with diners and emits […] More
It’s the ambiance that probably first impresses most diners at Hung’s Mansion hotel’s Chez Hung restaurant. The large, spacious 70-seat area feels more like a gigantic, stylish living room, with cushy chairs, sofas, book shelves and contemporary art, all brightly illuminated by natural light pouring through giant windows. The relaxing setting, which begs you to […] More
The first floor in this cozy coffee shop showcases daily limited-quantity baked goods for take-out or enjoyment on the premises. The second floor, decorated in a simple modern style, is a dining area where customers can savor a French-style Seasonal Set Meal (from NT$790) with options from among four starters, four main courses, desserts and […] More
Wafting warm steam, this tiny Japanese ramen stand on a bustling street presents authentic Kagoshima-style ramen, featuring a soup base simmered with chicken bones and vegetables for over 10 hours. The broth is made without artificial additives and contains bean sprouts, roasted meat slices, seaweed, bamboo shoots and chewy noodles. The heart-warming result savory and […] More
The old-fashioned storefront showcase and name of this establishment can easily fool passers-by into thinking this is a vintage tailor shop. Step inside, though, and you’ll encounter a classic-looking, private-feeling bar, complete with a vested bartender in front of bottle-lined wooden shelves, warm lighting and cushy chairs. Owner Candy Lin’s inspiration was her family’s background […] More
Newly-opened Boomerang is an excellent hidden gem of an establishment. From the moment you approach the front door, you’ll be treated to welcoming charm and aesthetically pleasing decor. Owner Una Wang has carefully chosen all of the cocktail menu’s high-end ingredients and offers delicious and unique drinks. The Aqua UNA (NT$280) comes in a martini […] More
This restaurant-meets-art gallery is located in a Fengyuan department store and offers occasional arts exhibitions and seminars alongside tasty Italian cooking. Menu options include pasta dishes, steak, roast chicken, German pork knuckle, pizzas, snacks, Italian-style coffees and other drinks. Pizzas range from the simple Margherita to more elaborate Seafood, and also include the creative Hakka-Style […] More
This spacious Japanese restaurant next to Taichung Park offers set meals during regular open hours but also has a second floor with private rooms and dining tables equipped with “lazy susans” for special occasions (available by reservation). The chef/owner uses his refined culinary skills to prepare sashimi, sushi, sushi rolls and donburi (NT$140-880) as well […] More
Coming on the heels of the recent Chillies 4 opening (see Nov. Compass), Chillies 5 raises the bar much higher with what is arguably Taiwan’s largest and most attractive Indian dining establishment. Located where SongZhu Road ends at the river near Dakeng Scenic Area, this striking triangular building seats 130 inside—exquisitely decorated with deep colors, […] More
Three new French owners have taken over, revamped and renamed what used to be Terroir Wine, transforming it into a Mediterranean restaurant and wine shop on the first floor and an upstairs cocktail bar and tasting room named The Chamber Club. Downstairs diners sit at either standard or higher bar-style tables to enjoy an exotic […] More
At first glance this fishing port, adjacent to a No. 61 West Coast Expressway interchange, is a standard, no-frills destination for local fishermen to unload their catch as boats come and go. However, it is also home to a number of vendors selling fresh seafood on weekday afternoons and weekends, when even bigger crowds turn […] More
台中市政府新聞局/文．圖提供 楊翰雯/譯 Article and photos courtesy of Taichung City Government Information Bureau Translated by Anna Yang Celebrating the Lantern Festival together The 15th day of the first lunar month is also known as the “little new year” and was a Chinese holiday traditionally celebrated with firecrackers and hand-held lanterns or torches to create a joyful, […] More
Taiwan and Hong Kong have enjoyed close connections for decades, thanks to their proximity, deep commercial ties, and some shared cultural similarities. However, a rapidly growing number of Hongkongers are now traveling to Taiwan to stay, uprooting themselves to establish new homes, jobs and lives for themselves and their families. The first seven months of […] More
This gelato shop was opened by Guido, who studied western cooking in Italy, and Steve, who loves to travel. They serve low-fat, low-sugar, natural, healthy and smooth gelato prepared with quality ingredients and an imported gelato-maker. The four gelato flavors offered daily are prepared with high-grade Madagascar vanilla, pistachios grown in Sicily’s volcanic soil, richly-flavored […] More
This seafood buffet restaurant offers myriad cold and warm dishes, plus fruit and desserts, with the plentiful delicacies including oysters, shrimp and piles of crabs. Other well-made selections include steamed seasonal fish, lobster miso soup, the chef’s recommended beef broth (don’t forget to add some rice wine to it), steaks, radish cakes, and king mushrooms. […] More
There are some great Indian restaurants in Taichung and Sree India Palace is one of my favorites–a quiet, cozy place offering a comforting ambiance and friendly, helpful staff. Every dish on the extensive menu is also delicious so it’s best to bring a few friends to help you sample as many as you can. My […] More
Tempus Hotel Taichung La Mode lights up your Christmas with roast turkey La Mode restaurant is offering an authentic roast turkey infused with mixed nuts and fruit flavors. The turkey is slowly roasted and paired with cranberry sauce, American-style. Other take-out a la carte options include U.S. Ribeye, Seafood Pumpkin Soup, and many varied European-style […] More
Taiwan’s old military dependents’ villages, created for arriving mainland Chinese in the ROC period after around 1949, represent a unique local subculture. Although most of these communities have now been torn down or renovated due to outdated/aging housing, nostalgic scenes from their heyday can still be seen at the Taichung Military Cultural Village Museum in […] More
This establishment, combining dining and extreme sports, is run by five young men who enjoy skateboarding. Owner Liean Cheng built a standard skateboarding pool on the premises to make this a one-of-a-kind Taichung hangout. When patrons aren’t getting exercise and showing off their skateboarding skills, they can also enjoy the unique grilled, top-quality kebabs, made […] More
Visitors and residents interested in sampling and learning more about outstanding Taiwanese teas have yet another excellent option in this classy new tea shop, situated on one side of Millennium Hotel’s lobby. In the middle is a counter where several customers can sit together while a knowledgeable staff member expertly brews up five excellent teas […] More
This inventive oriental-style brunch shop offers a mix of nostalgic and creative dining that includes top-end traditional dishes, stir-fried cooking and bistro-style snacks. This well-lit, recently-renovated interior is simply decorated and a place where customers can linger over a drink, use WiFi access and enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea time. It’s also an excellent venue […] More
Hanaya has been well-known among many Taichungers as a Japanese grill restaurant since its 1996 opening by Chef Satomi Sumio from Sendai, Japan. It has now located to this old white house, decorated Japanese-style, and offers high-grade meat and unique homemade sauces from Japan. Whether dining alone or with friends, you can enjoy grilled meat […] More
As its name plainly states, this restaurant uses top-grade ingredients and a sincere attitude to create quality cuisine that has over time built up a loyal customer base. Building on this, Good Food has now opened a new branch near Calligraphy Greenway that provides a delightful dining atmosphere. A first-floor take-out area sells daily fresh-made […] More
Five years after opening its first popular Indian restaurant, Ganga now has a second Beitun District branch a few meters off of ChongDe Road, Sec. 2. This cozy eatery, attractively decorated with vibrant colors and photos, seats 33 inside and outside and features the same food offerings—prepared by an experienced Indian chef—as the original branch. […] More
Persian Papa Meal offers an excellent culinary experience unique in Taichung and well worth sampling, thanks to the effort, care and quality ingredients the owner puts into his dishes. He hand-makes every item from scratch, creating even the soup stock from bones, and cream from fresh milk. The Lamb and Beef Kobideh (NT$280) features a […] More
Famous interior designer Mr. Tai-Lai Kan is the creator of this high-end restaurant’s exquisite decor, featuring high ceilings, attractive windows, marble, and gold and black colors. The Wang is also the Wow Prime restaurant group’s first foray into top-grade, dry-aged steaks and is located inside the striking National Trade Center office tower in Taichung’s 7th […] More
南屯區大墩路533號 (04) 2321-0373 533, DaDun Rd, Nantun Dist 11 am-1 am More
Article and photos courtesy of Taichung City Government Information Bureau Translated by Anna Yang Each year between October and April, the seasonal monsoon winds shift from the southwest to northeast due climatic factors that include off-shore high pressure systems and dense fog coverage. When conditions become almost windless and pollutants become less diffuse, western Taiwan’s […] More
This shop promotes fresh design styles and the concept of welcoming all colors and looks. You can upload any creative design and/or one-of-a-kind graphic work and this shop will create customized printed product for you. There are various cotton T-shirts to choose from and it only takes a short time to have it emblazoned with […] More
This evening hang-out offers refined dining delicacies and alcoholic options to customers, many who enjoy the new late-night hours here. Chef Chen Guan-ting, who worked at Sydney’s Quay Restaurant, uses his experience to prepare international-standard fine dining fare that can be savored in the enjoyable bistro-style atmosphere. This combination means that you can really relax […] More
This restaurant’s Japanese-style wooden building, fronted by a flower garden, is hidden along an alleyway next to the Art Museum Parkway that gives off a retro Japanese flavor. This sensation continues when you enter, take off your shoes and walk on the clean wooden floor in your bare feet. Besides bar-style seating, there are relaxing […] More
Tabletop role-playing games, or RPGs, are becoming increasingly popular. If you’re interested in seeing what the fuss is about, newly-opened Titan Round Table offers a great place to play, with spacious rooms for rent from NT$130/person (weekdays) for four hours to NT$200/person (weekend evenings) for three hours. Larger groups can pay a flat rate for […] More
Three cups chicken, Beijing roast duck, night market grilled corn, gaoliang and Shaoxing liquors…if you think these flavors are limited to Taiwan’s traditional eateries, think again. From now through April, hints of such items will be highlighted in the most improbable setting, The Landis Hotel’s Top of ONE western fine-dining restaurant. For the past 13 […] More
Publishers Douglas Habecker (何道明) and Courtney Donovan Smith (石東文) discuss Ta Ta Earth, a spot that provides both pet grooming and pet hotel services as well as dining delicacies and a cozy dining area for animals and their owners. More
History and background The current site for Taichung’s newest and largest park has a very interesting and varied background. During the Japanese colonial era, it was utilized as the then Taichu Prefecture’s only commercial airport and later became Taichung’s Shuinan Airport, used for both military and civilian flights. From 1946 it has also served as […] More
This nostalgic-feeling tea shop, whose Chinese name means “serving tea sincerely”, was founded in Kaohsiung. After it expanded to Taipei and earned a good reputation, the owner has decided to open a Taichung branch on the third floor of the Park Lane by CMP/Eslite mall. The menu of classic Taiwanese items from the Kaohsiung store […] More
Elegantly decorated with a gorgeous retro-colonial design, this stylish restaurant offers authentic Sichuan-style hot pots that exude the pungent aroma of Sichuan pepper. Among two hot pot soup base choices is Chongqing Style with Preserved Vegetables and Fish, prepared with fish filets and Chongqing’s traditional mouth-numbing sour, aromatic and spicy flavors. The other option is […] More
Chillies Indian has opened its fourth Taiwan branch with this attractive, spacious venue seating over 70. Just meters from ChongDe Road, the striking venue stands out with a range of Indian imported items–colored glass lamps, bronze Hindu sculptures, Indian art and customized, hand-painted, cushioned wooden furniture. New dishes–added to a simplified menu that makes ordering […] More
This bar offers a lively new alternative to the typical, dimly-lit dive. Youthful American owners Patrick and Carl focus on serving up Taiwanese craft beers, plus a few wines, in a venue that is also used for art and fun. Just inside the entrance is a mural that customers are invited to paint on. On […] More
This stylish, modern bakery is the perfect quiet getaway to enjoy peace and quiet with delicious baked goods, including a selection of daily, fresh-made pastries such as tarts, croissants, cookies and cheesecakes. The most popular item is the Dark Chocolate Cheesecake (NT$65), a rich, decadent treat made with high-quality dark chocolate from France. There is […] More
Helping to address a local dearth of authentic Malaysian eateries, this restaurant was recently opened in cooperation with Shin Yeh Restaurant Group, which has branches in many countries besides Malaysia, thanks to its consistent food quality control and use of authentic Malaysian ingredients. The variety of quality dishes here includes Pappa Hainan Fried Chicken Rice […] More
This Polish restaurant was launched this summer by Hong Konger Evie and Bart, a native of Poland who loves to travel. The couple met while on an Australian working holiday and later visited Bart’s Polish hometown. There they learned many traditional dishes in preparation for opening this establishment, with the goal of introducing excellent Polish […] More
Located near LiMing Road and the Chaoma bus terminals, this spot offers a cozy space for savoring all-day brunches (from NT$280), hearty pasta dishes (from NT$240), risotto and pizza (a la carte and set meals). For a leisurely afternoon tea time, there are also light snacks, salads, soups, deep-fried items and drinks on the menu. […] More
An amazing communion of architectural aesthetics, art and life If Taiwan is a treasure-filled museum, the National Taichung Theater (NTT) can be described as Joan Miro’s “Venus” at the Louvre, displaying a power and beauty that transcends space and time. Confirming this status is the fact that over five million people have visited this new […] More
A favorite among Taiwanese diners is the ubiquitous “re-chao” (hot stir-fry) eatery, serving up a wide range of fresh-made, cheap, tasty cuisine, usually in a noisy, no-frills venue. For the past nine years, Tempus Hotel’s Ali Seafood Restaurant has modified this concept for diners wanting to enjoy similar food in a refined, upscale ambiance. Walk […] More
The owner/chef of this Thai restaurant comes from the third generation of a Thai-Burmese Chinese immigrant family and works with his wife to offer a selection mainly consisting of authentic Thai and Burmese flavors. Prepared with imported spices from Thailand and Myanmar and fresh, local ingredients, these creative, reasonably-priced entrees offer good value for large […] More
Article and photos courtesy of Taichung City Government Information Bureau Translated by Anna Yang Since its inaugural event in 2003, the Taichung Jazz Festival has stood apart in Taiwan as a rare, large-scale showcase for jazz music, not to mention a Taichung cultural highlight. With audience numbers increasing by the year, this independent musical event–held […] More
This spacious orchid garden near Taichung’s Intercontinental Baseball Stadium is filled with all sorts of orchids but is specifically famed for its display and sale of elegant-looking moth orchids. A special product sold here is a big orchid basket consisting of at least 30 orchid blossoms, arranged with special professional techniques to open outwards. Among […] More
This Japanese restaurant actually began life as a night market vendor before opening its first branch on MeiChuan East Road in 2014. Since then, it has earned a strong reputation and customer following for reasonably-priced, quality cuisine and attentive service. This particular branch is similar to the original store, offering delicately-made Japanese cuisine, with the […] More
This scenic restaurant is located along Changhua’s County Highway No.139 in a simple, but eye-catching, Southeast Asian-style log villa. Head Chef Hung Kuan-chu, who began his cooking career at the tender age of 10, has worked in many hotels and received gold medals in Chinese Gourmet Association competitions in addition to other national awards. At […] More
This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and manufacture of music boxes. Inside the entrance is an introduction to musical movement brands and a timeline for music box movement company Kyooh. The variety of music boxes displayed includes antique hundred-year-old European boxes, antimony alloy boxes, shaking-head cloth doll boxes, decorative egg-shaped […] More
This cozy, low-key shop is decorated with a homey, Nordic-style atmosphere and offers many single-origin pour-over coffees, plus flavored lattes, slushies, handmade desserts, roasted coffee beans, drip-bag coffee, and coffee-making equipment. A rear door accesses a green Japanese-style garden with adjacent coffee bean roasting area, allowing customers to savor a coffee and dessert outside in […] More
There was some surprise this summer when the Taichung Tourism & Travel Bureau’s inaugural Taichung Pearl Milk Tea Festival competition–featuring 398 stores, 47 brands and 120,000 voters–was won by HWC Roasters, specializing in high-grade coffees. Its winning Bubble Caffe Latte (NT$85) is made with specialty coffee, fresh Changhua boutique dairy farm milk, Sun Moon Lake […] More
In Taichung’s booming hotpot market, there is a special niche for mini-hotpot shops like this family-oriented, pet-friendly place that includes several toy vending machines for kids to enjoy while waiting to be seated.The Stone Hot Pot’s soup base is made with stir-fried onions, scallions, sesame oil and vegetable broth. Customers can pay extra to change […] More
Recently reopened after some changes, this drinking and dining venue is located on the fifth floor of National Taichung Theater and offers an extraordinary, romantic ambiance that includes great daytime and evening views of the city. The tall curved walls also add a sense of spaciousness. These factors make it perfect for weddings, private wine […] More
Kappo Ryori’s cooking techniques originate from early 19th-century Osaka and can be observed by diners as the chef cooks right in front of them. The menu-less restaurant offers various kinds of fish, purchased fresh daily, to create a seven-dish set menu of the day. Like the seafood, all other ingredients such as beef, side dishes […] More
The royal castle-like atmosphere at Thai J restaurant, located in the first-floor of Carrefour Market building, is filled with plenty of plants and colors. The first-floor restaurant now has expanded to offer a second-floor Thai-style hotpot restaurant. A primarily black color theme, accented by sparkling, elegant chandeliers, creates a high-end ambiance. There are three unique […] More
Special Note: Customers who show this article while dining at Le Ble d’or’s Taichung branches can get a free 350cc beer. These days, hardly a month seems to go by without a new Taiwanese craft-brewed beer turning up. However, less than two decades ago, it was still illegal for anyone besides the government’s Taiwan Tobacco […] More
Owner Ann treats animals like family members and her business provides both pet grooming and pet hotel services as well as dining delicacies and a cozy dining area for animals and their owners. The tidy premises, complemented by relaxing background music, has helped attract many owners and their pets since Ta Ta Earth’s opening. Made-to-order […] More
Near National Taichung Theater, this Cantonese restaurant is located on the third floor of a high-rise and doesn’t have a very large dining space, giving it the atmosphere of a private venue with various differently-sized private rooms. Hong Kong banquet chef Yeh Zhi-guang uses his refined culinary skills to prepare Fu Chai’s exquisite, premium dishes, […] More
Many eateries offer three ways of enjoying roast duck but this place takes it to another level with about 128 variations, such as Duck Stir-Fried with Chilis; Salt and Garlic Duck; Sichuan Duck; and Korean-Style Duck. Nine available sauces and sides include pickled vegetables, chilis, orange sauce, mustard, and Japanese-style sauce. Fat Calf Hotpot Restaurant […] More
This nostalgic-feeling restaurant is situated in a renovated old, two-floor house built in the 1960-70s. Owner Mr. Chen is responsible for the attractive aesthetics that can be seen everywhere and give off a relaxing, home-style ambiance. This ranges from dining utensils to the landscaped front yard, flourishing with plants and decorations. A recommended entree here […] More
Attracting diners with a sizable sign and appetizing peppery aromas, this establishment is situated on an alley adjacent to In Sky Hotel in the Fengjia shopping area. The recommended Aromatic Spicy Fish in a Barrel (NT$680-880) includes tender, nutritious snakehead fish imported from China and a delicious broth made with green chilies and peppers, cucumbers, […] More
Located next to Taichung Cultural and Creative Industries Park, this relaxing place offers pasta, risotto and brunch options. For an added NT$80, an entree can become a set meal (or add NT$40 for salad, soup or dessert). Unique specialties integrate Italian fare and traditional Taiwanese foods like scallion pancakes and tofu. Scallion Pancake and Truffle […] More
Mr. Good is run by a young married couple (Chiu Yu-si and his wife) who originally ran an on-line business selling their handmade golden pickled vegetables and fruit- flavored radishes. However, they’ve now made their dreams come true with their own eatery. The cozy interior has limited seating but is comfortable and doesn’t feel crowded. […] More
Top-grade ingredients and flavors are undoubtedly among the reasons for the consistent, big crowds that this restaurant attracts. With a relaxing ambiance that includes a view of trees out the windows and indoor forest-inspired decor, Go Home offers brunch, burgers, desserts and drinks. A limited-quantity item is the Go Beef Burger (NT$275), featuring a tasty […] More
This second-floor, high-end bistro has imported roughly a hundred single-malt and blended whiskeys from Japan, America and Ireland and its wall shelves are packed with bottles. Completing the refined, private feeling of this place are wines, fine dining, soft lighting and music that make it excellent for eating and drinking alcohol, ideally at the same […] More
After success selling American-style desserts at their Half Half Cookies stall, sisters Moni and Saras have now opened this cozy, attractive Art Museum Parkway shop with inside and outside seating. Experienced baker Moni strives to make everything as authentically American and tasty as possible without being overly sweet. The resulting “comfort-food” desserts (dine-in or take-out) […] More
Although the local popularity of board games has continued to grow, the fact that many games cost over NT$1,000 means that building a collection can be daunting. Fortunately, Game Farm can help you out. For only NT$100/person during the week and NT$150/person on weekends, you and your friends can stay as long as you like […] More
It’s a fact that some of Taichung’s best-kept dining secrets can be found inside the city’s hotels, these being “secret” because many diners don’t automatically consider hotels when it comes to eating out. An attractive example of excellent, reasonably-priced hotel dining can be found at Inhouse Hotel Grand, a relatively new residence that continues to […] More
Besides its name, WOO stands apart from your standard Thai eatery in a number of other ways. Situated above the swanky Tsutaya Bookstore Shizheng branch and famed WuPaoChun Bakery, its 120-seat interior is stylishly decorated with a modern Greco-Roman theme that includes decorative floor tiles, white marble tables, glass chandeliers, statues, painted wooden furniture, deep […] More
This quiet hangout, tucked away on a quiet tree-lined street, is a unique late night cafe, lounge and restaurant that serves as a great place to sit with friends for a meal, light snacks, cup of coffee, craft beer or cocktail. Coffury’s chef specializes in curry and his homemade blends of spices always compliment dishes […] More
Compass Fest 2019 is October 5-6 In many western countries, a “Sweet 16” birthday marks a coming-of-age and new stage in life for a teenager. Although Compass Magazine’s annual international food and music festival arguably reached a certain maturity years ago, the fact that this event has now reached its 16th year is certainly worth […] More
While it’s the players that everyone focuses on during the heated excitement of a professional baseball game, one must not forget that this wouldn’t be possible without nonstop efforts by a small army of support personnel. At Brothers Baseball Club, this behind-the-scenes support team includes a small group whose jobs are absolutely critical to success—the […] More
Words by Lin Yi-hui Translated by Anna Yang Photographers: Dong Yi; Chen Cheng-guo; Shi Chun-tai Photos provided by Taichung City Taiping District Office As Taiwan’s population continues to age, senior citizens currently make up 14.05% of the nation’s people. With one out of every seven people a senior, it has become critical to strengthen social […] More
It’s difficult to top the exhilarating adrenaline rush, excitement and tribal bonding that comes from watching a large sporting event with thousands of fans rooting for their team. In Taichung, this experience can only be regularly enjoyed in one place—the Intercontinental Stadium—where fans gather on an almost weekly basis throughout the summer and fall to […] More
Words by Li Chiao-chi Translated by Anna Yang Photograph by Shi Chun-tai Photos provided by Taichung City Government By contrast with ordinary park slides and swings, Taichung City is actively promoting all-inclusive playgrounds designed to meet the special needs of kids of all ages. Parents are also able to participate in their children’s play times, […] More
It’s rare to find authentic brisket in Taichung but this place, near Taichung Veterans General Hospital, is a relaxing bistro for enjoy such delicacies and drinks. The GOTCHA Smoked Brisket (NT$400, 7 oz.) is well-marbled while the GOTCHA Smoked Ribs (NT$500/half rack, about 7.5 oz.) uses pork from Yunlin. This high-quality pork tenderloin is produced […] More
This scenic dining establishment boasts its own private rice field and is surrounded by birds nest-filled trees, grass, an oriental-style courtyard and winding pathway, plus two lotus ponds filled with frogs and fish, making it an eco-friendly venue. The abundance of natural elements has made this an eco-friendly venue. Now run by the family owners’ […] More
CP Queenstown offers a fun, relaxing venue where visitors can escape life’s pressures. This former plastics factory has been remodeled into a restaurant, market, exhibition hall and go-kart center. The ground floor market hosts a variety of private vendors each weekend as well as four go-karts and a track for children and adults. The restaurant […] More
Youthful owner/chef Chen Guan-ting has worked in the culinary world for over a decade, including stints at numerous famous restaurants, as well as Sydney’s Quay Restaurant, ranked among the world’s top 50. With this experience, he infuses his exquisite dishes with an east-meets-west influence. Besides daytime brunch, this place becomes a bistro at night, serving […] More
Originally situated in the YiZhong Street shopping area, this restaurant has relocated to near the National Museum of Natural Science’s Botanical Garden. Its menu focuses on unique “borderless” culinary dishes that express the chef’s passion for cooking and this beautiful land and culture. Seating is limited and the Lunch Set Meal (NT$900) and Dinner Set […] More
This popular Taipei spicy hotpot-style noodle eatery has opened its first branch outside of the capital city in a pure-white old house in Taichung’s West District and has been packed since opening. The chef’s recommended handmade “Master Noodles” are chewy and aromatic, pairing very well with the specialty Spicy/Stewed Half Meat and Half Tendon Soup […] More
This relaxing cafe is a Taichung pioneer for very healthy sourdough, gluten-free, and very low-carbohydrate ketogenic breads and other products, introducing many locals to such items for the first time. Founder and southern California native Tim Lee offers neurofeedback brain training and personal coaching upstairs and says that his fare represents the nutritional component to […] More
This low-profile bistro originally opened on Beitun District’s SiPing Road over a year ago but recently relocated to North District’s CMYK Gallery. Diners who also enjoy art and relaxation should appreciate the brand-new menu created by Chef Marlboro Lin, whose earnestness and passion for cooking means that he always tries to present exquisite flavors through […] More
Youthful chef A-Min has a passion for Japanese cuisine and, after working in Taipei and Taichung for a few years, decided to open this tidy, bright restaurant with his wife. Seating for about 20 (reservations recommended)–dining bar-style and in a private room–is surrounded by refined decor. Two non-menu set meals (NT$1,100 and NT$1,800) include 10-plus […] More
Located near WenXin Road, this eatery promotes healthy dining by focusing on low-carb, ketogenic lunch boxes and has become quite popular with customers from a nearby gym and offices since May. Sourced from local farms, lunch box ingredients are nutritious and diet-friendly. For better flavor, succulent, tender meats here are prepared with a three-hour sous […] More
Fain Feast’s menu aims to satisfy appetites with both Asian and western flavors. Asian dishes include Kung Pao Chicken; Anka and Fermented Tofu Chicken; Japanese Pork Tonkatsu; and Grilled Meat and Tempura over Rice, while western fares includes pasta dishes (around NT$200, add NT$90-120 for set-meal upgrade) with tomato, pesto or white sauces, served with […] More
Working in this low-profile, but impressive, European-style restaurant, youthful chef Ken Hung demonstrates his principle of presenting traditional western cuisine with fresh local ingredients like duck breasts, seafood and a varied meats. Up to about 50 diners can enjoy his creations in an elegant dining area and private dining room. Set menus (NT$588-1,799) include bread, […] More
This three-story, retro-oriental-style building in Taichung’s old downtown has blue bricks on the wall outside, wooden window frames and doors, in an architectural style common to Chengdu in China’s Sichuan province. This is part of an attempt to replicate Chongqing’s spicy hotpot restaurants and decorations include many traditional elements such as collections of antiques from […] More
This shop’s youthful owner used to work in the tech industry but, after meeting a goose breeder from his home county in Yunlin, decided to open a restaurant serving delicious fresh, water-boiled goose. All his geese are sourced from Yunlin and sent over when they’re 3-4 months old (about 3.5 kilograms). Based on the advice […] More
Words by Li Chiao-chi, Yen Yong-chin Translated by Anna Yang Photograph by Li Pei-hsuen Photos provided by Fushoushan Farm, Taichung Travel Net, Chu Yen-chang Taichung is home to a sweeping, diverse terrain that is perfect for family-oriented nature outings. Whether your preference is biking along a greenway, hiking or camping, the natural scenery and settings […] More
Brothers Elephants Season Second-Half information now available! Tickets also available for Peng Cheng-min’s retirement party on July 24! July 1 (Mon.): Taichung Intercontinental Stadium Family Seat tickets are available for purchase via 7-11 ibon terminals and Family Mart FamiPort machines from 12:30 p.m.! Sept. 28-29: ‘CHIAllenge’ Peng Cheng-min’s Retirement Party tickets available for Brothers Fans […] More
This restaurant, whose name means “abundant” in French, is located in a former U.S. military home and focuses on the use of local ingredients to create eastern and western cuisine, with every single dish offering its own exquisite, unique flavors. During its first season since opening, Le Plein is offering a “banquet table” menu plus […] More
With summer in full swing, life can be reduced to finding ways to avoid the sweltering heat. Although staying home with air-conditioning is certainly one option, many still need to get outside and burn off their energy. Outdoor water parks are a fantastic opportunity to do just that. Whether one is relaxing on a beach, […] More
An elegant decor, comfortable dining space, rare combination of vegetarian and barbecue dining, and a bamboo menu are all highlights at this creative restaurant. As dishes are served to the table, dry ice also adds to the exquisite plating presentation. In addition to plentiful salad and side dishes, the “7 Fairies” set meal (NT$1,380 for […] More
Inspired by popular Japanese conveyor-belt restaurants, Yen-Xiang Ting replaces sushi with a variety of sweet, cutely-presented, western-style desserts and drinks. Customers visiting this place–located in the basement of Park Lane by CMP mall–similarly sit at a bar or tables by the rotating conveyor belt and can grab whatever catches their attention. On weekdays, they are […] More
Outlaw BBQ is not only one of Taichung’s newest barbecue eateries, but also perhaps one of its most unique ones. Since its June opening, new dishes are still being added to an already-great menu, focusing on American cook-out style cuisine but soon expanding to include Asian-fusion entrees. If you’re hungry, the delicious ribs (NT$480/full rack, […] More
Finga’s Fine Foods has for decades been a mainstay in Taichung’s international dining scene. Owner Dereke Bruce recently updated the menu here and, with everything handmade fresh to order, you’d be hard pressed to find a more delicious meal anywhere. When you walk in, you first encounter the Finga’s bakery, with lots of daily-baked specialty […] More
If you’ve been on the look-out for a unique kind of hot pot, this restaurant offers famous Pepper Pork Tripe and Stewed Chicken hot pots (NT$360-480). These are prepared with pork bones, chicken bones and various vegetables, stewed until the broth becomes creamy and rich with unbeatable flavors that are even better when enjoyed with […] More
This spacious, 5,289-square-meter vegetarian buffet (NT$680 per adult) offers diners interesting views of the city and enjoyable sunsets in addition to a convenient parking lot. The oriental zen-style garden landscaping features pine and cypress trees and a lotus-topped pond, creating a natural, relaxing ambiance. Furthering this effect is a vast dining space filled with wooden […] More
Situated near Taichung Park, this establishment offers a laid-back atmosphere, with attractive tinted windows pairing well with the colorful interior decorations and photos. Customers can escape into this cozy setting which, despite its small size, offers sufficient space between tables. A QR Code by the entrance links to more information and a reservation list, with […] More
Located off of JingCheng Road, this place sports big ceiling-to-floor windows and a wooden door that give its interior a mixed, well-balanced rustic-industrial style. “This is an ark that belongs to my dreams,” says owner Shi Chi-Shiang, explaining his shop’s name and noting that he discovered his love for coffee while studying and working part-time […] More
Truly creative cocktails, food and decor have distinguished Left Bar & Cafe since it opened over four years ago. Housed in a cavernous former auto-repair shop on an alley between the HuaMei Street canal and SOGO Department Store, this hang-out was opened by Camper Tsai, who has bartended over the years at FM, Oldies, Patio […] More
This shop, near Fengjia Night Market, makes customized T-shirt designs. Even if you’re only ordering one T-shirt, or a bag or anything on cotton material, this shop can print your design on it. This means you can produce creative gifts for friends, family members and colleagues, whether it’s a parent-child T-shirt, company uniform or even […] More
After five years in the same spot, this popular American diner-style restaurant has relocated nearby to slightly-larger, two-floor premises on the corner of ZhongMei and ChangChun streets, opposite Zhongmei Park. The first floor has a long bar plus covered open-air tables; the second floor has tables and booths. Twin Cities natives Ben Tucheny and Kyle […] More
The Australian Mutton Leg (NT$980, approx. 1 kg.) served in this shop is enough for 2-3 customers to enjoy as part of a robust Mongolian-style meal and there’s an even bigger version (NT$1,680) for 4-6 people. These mutton legs are marinated with over 20 kinds of herbs–including bay leaves, cumin and nutmeg–then charcoal-grilled until medium-rare […] More
The legendary “Deli D” is now in a new, easy-to-find location on JinHua Road near BeiTun Road. Deli D specializes in authentic deli meats prepared by Montreal native Brian Desmarais, served in house, to-go and wholesale to restaurants. These include standard cold cuts, Italian sausage and roast beef. One absolute must-get item is the smoked […] More
It’s easy to miss this shop–located near Shengji New Village–if you’re not looking out for the low-profile logo on its door. However, an enormous painted mural does help make it more obvious. An outdoor dining area, resembling an urban garden, is a nice spot for enjoying the imported healthy ingredients found in the Australian-style brunch […] More
Taichung saw a change of leadership on Dec. 25, 2018, when long-serving Legislator Lu Shiow-yen was elected to lead the city over the next four years. One of the new mayor’s tasks was selecting three deputy mayors, including veteran diplomat Bruce Linghu, who has represented Taiwan at various global postings, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, […] More
Words by Li Chiao-Chi Translated by Anna Yang Photos provided by Taichung City Government Cultural Affairs Bureau; Huang Chi-feng; Wu Chi-hsueh Instilling the city with fresh value through cultural and creative initiatives Colorful Taichung overflows with an abundance of resources, including a rich ecology with a diversity of wildlife, cultural attractions and a strong industrial […] More
V Di Ja, whose Taiwanese name means “hide here”, is hidden in a community next to Fengle Sculpture Park. It is run by a group of four friends who named it to express the idea that guests are welcome to dine here like at home. Carefully-selected ingredients include Dounan-cultivated Koshihikari rice, locally-farmed meat, cherry ducks […] More
AileRoy Kitchen offers a menu of expertly-prepared, mouthwatering western and Asian fusion cuisine. Executive Chef Roy prepares signature Western-style pasta, risotto, roasted-meat and other dishes with Taiwanese flavors and ingredients. A standout selection is Cherry Valley Duckbreast Sweet Trio (NT$520), featuring roasted duck breast on a bed of potato puree and mushrooms garnished with popcorn. […] More
Local egg puffs are sold by many Taiwanese vendors, who can be seen pouring batter into egg-shaped iron molds. Recently, Frenchman Frederic Tomas and his Taiwanese wife Ariel Chen invented unique, French-style versions that take these little pastries to another level. With much experimentation, they devised a batter with western elements, handmade daily with fresh […] More
This small craft brewery is run by South African twin brothers Casper and Adriaan and Kevin from Ireland. Originally high school teachers, this trio traveled a few years ago to America and Canada, where they enjoyed beer-tasting at a variety of craft breweries. The mix of unique styles and flavors they savored–far beyond the big-brand […] More
Pushing the wooden dough-roller door handle here takes you into a high-ceiling space filled with baking aromas. The walls display baking connoisseur favorites such as American Nordic Ware baking molds, utensils by Japanese Cakeland and German Birkmann brands, and a wide variety of interesting biscuit mold styles. The setting resembles a small museum, with various […] More
With large grass areas, tall trees and a knee-deep pond, Love Farm is a fenced-in outdoor haven for children of all ages to play safely, learn, scream and run wild. With an actual tree house, ropes, rock-climbing wall and playground slides, there are ample opportunities for children to safely climb to their hearts’ content and […] More
Located in a quiet neighborhood along a green belt near ZhongMing South Road, this wine shop’s glass facade illuminates the interior, where attractive shelves filled with wines lure passers-by inside. Most of the wines offered here are from Italy’s 20 estates, including 86 fine wines from 14 wineries. The owner also picks wines from an […] More
This modern-style restaurant has attracted plenty of business in its Tunghai University neighborhood. The chef and bartender have both worked at five-star hotels and incorporate their innovative ideas into their dishes and drinks. This includes creative Italian dishes like Sous Vide Chicken Breast Salad (NT$158), prepared with Cummingcordia Vinegar and French-style garnish, and Taiwan Style […] More
Located in quiet Liming Village, this eatery offers Thai-style curry dishes and its Southeast Asian wooden knickknacks and cotton decorations make this a cozy venue for a relaxing meal. For those who like it spicy, Green Curry Rice with Beef and Salad (NT$288) is recommended. Served with a eye-catching mountain-shaped mound of rice, this entree’s […] More
Beer lovers will enjoy this cozy, 20-seat bar and bistro, opened by German David Lowe and Taiwanese Alva Chang. Customers can sit at tables or the bar to enjoy Bavarian Ladenburger Beer imported exclusively by them, draft Altbier and Hoppy Lager (300cc NT$150, 500cc NT$180) from the local Legend craft brewery, plus quality bottled imports […] More
This simply-designed business, hidden in the alleyway next to Shengji New Village, is a fusion cafe selling charming, but practical, products and decorative items. Coffee, design and travel related magazines and books are on display and available drinks include single-origin coffees, blended coffees, flavored coffees and milks, sparkling water, and handmade desserts such as the […] More
In cooperation with the Council of Agriculture, this shop–which is also a restaurant–supplies Taiwanese meats with Traceable Agricultural Product certification to almost 400 restaurants. The veterinarian owner aims to provide quality meat via a platform shared by local farms, restaurants and meat purchasers.The warmly-lit dining area’s unique decor resembles a Japanese bathhouse and the exquisite […] More
This corner shop, located next to Civic Square and Park Lane by CMP mall, stands apart from any common drink stand or take-out cafe. Customers here can enjoy any option from a variety of cold/hot drinks in the seats at an arcade outside in the public area. An illuminated window display shelf and fridge also […] More
The meals here range from healthy vegetarian brunches to ovo-lacto vegetarian lunches and dinners and customers can enjoy the cozy dining area all day long. The young chef uses seasonal fruit and vegetables from Puli Township and Toushe Basin (頭社盆地), including mushrooms, gourds, pumpkins and passionfruit, as his ingredients. This fresh produce is cultivated by […] More
Japanese owner Taku San, whose wife is from Taichung, focuses on making authentic, traditional Napoli-style pizzas and received his culinary training in Italy. Since opening five years ago, he has only used high-quality Italian imported flour, canned tomato sauce, olive oil and cheese. Every day, he makes and leavens his pizza dough and prepares toppings […] More
This establishment is found in the often-misty Sanyi wood-carving town, not far from Miaoli’s Wood Sculpture Museum. Its exposed-concrete building is infused with humanistic, cultural and artistic ambiance, standing in a bamboo forest like something out of the movie “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon”. As you walk along its greenery-lined path, natural elements, a gigantic copper […] More
Years ago, I had to order meals for my transoceanic flight and was given multiple choices when I merely wanted to have vegetarian food. Out of curiosity, I ticked “Vegan”. Honestly speaking, it was the blandest airplane meal I have ever had in my life. Having been a vegetarian for years, I had been confronted […] More
Words by Li Chiao-Chi Translated by Anna Yang Photos provided by Wu Chih-Hsueh, Business Weekly Making Taichung’s products visible by association (前店: storefront), strengthening industrial techniques and capabilities (後廠: back factory) and creating a rich city with the support of laws and initiatives (自由港: free port) ‘Developing a strong, wonderful Taichung’ is Taichung City Mayor […] More
The owner of this quirky, vintage-products shop along YiZhong Shopping Street used to play in a band. The venue is filled with old clothing and items from around the world with interesting stories. Knickknacks include a wing-shaped guitar mounted on the wall, rarely-seen dolls, military and blue-collar workers’ uniforms, retro-style cowhide bags, gas masks and […] More
Affiliated with Taichung’s Hung’s Mansion hotel and Motel Stars, this boutique motel’s eye-catching exterior features a geometrical bird’s nest-shaped design made from steel plates. The 33 guest rooms, each around 66-132 square meters in size, offer five main decor themes–desert, aboriginal, nostalgic, nature, and romantic–and a variety of settings, ranging from a natural-feeling cave to […] More
The space cop figurine by this family-oriented establishment’s sandbox leads kids and their parents into the space-themed dining area. The high-ceiling first floor is quite spacious and the entrance is framed by a spaceship-like stage and entertainment and reading center. During holidays, there are various interesting magic, clown, bubble and face-changing shows (check shop website […] More
Far from a regular Japanese restaurant, this is an excellent place to enjoy delicious late-night dining. The cozy eatery has bar seating by a refrigerated sushi showcase, where a sushi chef prepares fresh seafood purchased daily from markets to make various items including sashimi, grilled dishes, soups and sushi. Seasonal grilled fish is usually written […] More
This restaurant, whose name means “revival” and “remembering”, is run by youthful chef Peter, who studied culinary arts in France. The restaurant has mainly focused on two set meals (NT$1,200-2,280, service charge included), titled “Experience” and “Discovering”, which differ from each other in the number of courses. The Kid’s Meal (NT$580) and Vegetarian Menu (NT$880), […] More
Located near the Park Lane by CMP/Eslite mall, this cafe welcomes you with a dark-colored door and spiral stairway leading to a cozy second floor. The owner hand-picked all the furniture and tableware, and the fan-shaped menu and nostalgic ambiance add to the appeal of this place as a spot for lingering over some food […] More
This spacious brunch restaurant, whose English name is a play on the Chinese name of its city district, has a two-floor interior tastefully decorated with light blue and tan colors and light-wood highlights. There is seating for about 60 in pleasant downstairs cafe-style setting and relaxing upstairs living room-style areas, complete with sofas, coffee tables […] More
This shop’s Chinese name is pronounced “jiu-jin”, with “jin” (寯) also meaning “to accumulate”, “handsome” and “outstanding”; in Cantonese, it sounds like “walk-in”. The cozy, artsy-feeling shop, stocking myriad wine and champagne selections, welcomes everyone, including wine connoisseurs, to gather here, chat about wines and purchase their favorites. Hailing from Hong Kong, attractive owner Ms. […] More
A lot of work and detail have gone into the blue-and-white decorations and brilliant tropical wall murals at this cafe. The coziness of the setting is further accented by the wooden design and shelf-lined walls. Sunching Bread Platter (NT$220) consists of scones, egg salad, olive vinegar oil, butter and handmade jam, plus five kinds of […] More
“I think that a restaurant’s environment can heighten the customers’ dining pleasure and food flavors,” says Chillies’ Indian owner Minesh Valand, who has recently done just that at all three of his restaurants (2 in Taichung, 1 in Hsinchu), making them arguably the most attractive Indian eateries anywhere in Taiwan. His original CunZhong branch, launched […] More
Jerry’s House is the type of restaurant that will please even the pickiest gastronome. Its owner returned to Taiwan after serving as the head chef at the Pony Dining The Rocks and uses his experience to create a great Australian-Taiwanese fusion of epicurean delights. All ingredients are carefully selected and only the freshest are used […] More
Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) is located in the northeastern corner of Italy, near the borders with Slovenia and Austria. The region, home to 10 DOC and four DOCG appellations, is blessed with a mild climate, rolling hills, ample sunshine, regular cool breezes and a mineral-rich soil called Ponca. This combination of climate and soil produces […] More
With a name like 坐坐 (zuo zuo, “sit sit”) Place, this late-night hang-out is bound to be unique, as a visit will confirm. But first you have to find it. Head south on Taichung Road, turn left onto FuXing Road and go up the second lane on the left, where a First Bank branch is […] More
The earliest accessories and decorations can be traced back to the Stone Age, when bones, mineral objects and shells are used. Modern-day Taiwan has been home to countless traditional shops–which mostly opened during the economic boom days in the 1980s–selling gold, silver and jewelry, mostly for gifts to celebrate weddings, newborn babies and senior citizens’ […] More
MeetU Pasta is tiny, quaint little Italian restaurant serving up tasty pizzas, pastas and other dishes offering both traditional Italian and Asian-fusion flavors. The pizzas are thin and crispy, cooked to a perfect golden crust with a few charred spots typical of traditional Italian pizzas. For a classic Italian pizza, the Margherita (NT$228), with fresh […] More
Located near the corner with DaGuan Road, this traditional Taiwanese restaurant offers an east-meets-west interior ambiance infused with both modern and nostalgic notes, suitable for both small and large groups of diners. A teapot of roasted oolong tea is served to every table before dining and the restaurant offers nostalgic Taiwanese dishes that include creative […] More
Customers order off a wall-mounted menu at this Xinjiang-style grill eatery, situated near the intersection with XingZhong Street, and can sit inside or outside on wooden tables and chairs. Barrels outside are filled with live fish and Thai shrimp, and there are plenty of skewers in the fridge. The owner flavors his dishes with many […] More
This southern Taiwanese-style dessert shop offers both hot and iced food items. Customers can order ice cream/shaved ice with strawberries, taro, adzuki beans and herbal jelly with milk, and blended fresh fruit drinks (with milk) are also available. If you’d like to sample some warm savory eats, try Grandma’s Hot Soup Noodles/Chicken Sliced Noodles (NT$90), […] More
Next to Taichung’s Chaoma bus station area, this eatery serves seafood, beef, lamb, pork, chicken and fish teppanyaki options. Standard stir-fried sliced meat on teppanyaki is NT$130 and comes with all-you-can-eat/drink beverages, coffee, daily soup, stir-fried cabbage and bean sprouts. The chewy, fragrant rice provided is from Yunlin County’s Xilou township. The “A” to “C” […] More
This breakfast shop stands apart from other traditional breakfast places with its impressive, striking interior design based on marble elements and three basic colors: black, white and gray. French windows illuminate the interior and gazing outside offers a view of IKEA directly opposite, making this a relaxing venue to enjoy a quality breakfast and linger […] More
Relocated from a previous Fengjia location, In Love Burrito is a great spot to enjoy some Taiwanese-Mexican fusion light meals. Featuring fresh ingredients wrapped in homemade scallion pancakes, the satisfying burritos here titillate the taste buds and come in seven varieties (NT$80-85) in addition to plain scallion pancakes (NT$45), with egg or cheese added for […] More
Fitzone is an all-new World Gym concept targeted at everyone from regular gym-goers to beginners. Smaller than standard World Gyms, it hosts five daily one-hour sessions (starting 8:40 a.m. to 9:40 p.m.) with two 10-person teams swapping between a 30-minute treadmill run and 30-minute session with two coaches on a High Interval Intense Training (HIIT) […] More
Well-known 1924 Shanghai restaurant’s first floor has been transformed into this very atmospheric Old Shanghai-themed bar. With some inspiration from “The Great Gatsby”, the warmly-lit atmosphere convincingly evokes 1920s-30s Shanghai with old photos, red curtains, hanging gold balls, feather boas, lots of dark wood, old-style jazz, and a variety of seating, including tall bistro tables, […] More
With a modern, sleek and welcoming Italian feel to its decor, More Pasta & Pizza mixes a pleasant dining experience with delicious Italian cuisine. Pizza dough is made by hand using semolina flour and fresh ingredients. The Classic Margherita (NT$258) is one of the simplest pizzas in terms of ingredients and one of More’s most […] More
Located in a new office tower in Taichung’s 7th Redevelopment Zone, this 1,984-square meter, single-floor, upscale private club makes “healthy living” its goal. Its member services include professional consultations, evaluations and customized courses integrating sports science, physiotherapy, nutrition and other cross-disciplinary sports science specialties, all designed to help participants achieve their health goals. Classes include […] More
As you walk into this shop, you’ll encounter a strong oriental zen-like ambiance. The wooden interior includes a variety of shelf-displayed organic, certified Jinxuan, Oolong and High Mountain teas, plus various artists’ masterpieces, such as tea pots, cups, bowls and Taku ironware. The owner promotes his teas by offering tastings to tea-loving customers, conveying the […] More
While pasta/risotto/pizza places seem to be found on every corner, one occasionally encounters an establishment that truly expands and redefines the local boundaries of Italian cuisine. Such a place is Zebra, where Executive Chef Ren Ren Huang combines two decades of cooking experience at Taipei’s Westin and W hotels with his personal creative vision and […] More
It’s difficult to describe in writing the cornucopia of home-style flavors found in this restaurant, located in a warmly-lit, cozy, white wooden structure near Art Museum Parkway. In an era when so many people regularly dine out, finding home-style flavors can be difficult. However, the 20-plus Thai-style rice dishes (NT$230-380) and other eastern, western and […] More
This restaurant features Taiwan’s first all-you-can-eat wagyu beef hotpot. Diners can enjoy Japanese wagyu beef, Australian M9 wagyu beef, American Angus boneless beef, SRF black hair beef, Spanish Iberico pork, and Argentine red shrimp for NT$1,599 (120-minute dining time limit). For an extra NT$800, they can also savor other top-grade meats like epicurean favorites Japanese […] More
First-time visitors to Taiwan often do not venture to Taichung, let alone know about the rich history of saxophone-making in the city’s Houli District. On weekends, this sleepy town comes alive; from the rustic Green-Corridor bicycle trails to soulful sax melodies drifting through Houli’s streets and corners, visitors will be pleasantly surprised. A few decades […] More
With high-quality food and affordable draft beer and cocktails, this is an ideal place for families, friends and colleagues to enjoy a relaxing meal or late-night drinks. Hulk’s offers four on-tap beers (NT$150-180) that can be sampled before ordering–Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc, Orion, San Miguel Negra, and Le Chouffee, a Belgian beer offered nowhere else in […] More
Located on the seventh floor of Tiger City mall, this unique, modern-looking bar offers beautiful evening views of the surrounding Taichung’s upscale 7th Redevelopment Zone and shares an edgy design with its prominently-located sister branch in Taipei’s Xinyi District. Both bars’ designs are work of well-known British designer Mark Lintott, and both offer cocktail menus […] More
Sea-themed wall decorations here lend an aquarium-like ambiance while dining on this shop’s famed fresh seafood porridges, featuring high-end ingredients for reasonable prices. Youthful owner Mr. Chen says that money isn’t a concern here for lovers of fresh seafood, as just over NT$100 will allow anyone to enjoy fresh shrimp, clams, squid and oysters. Besides […] More
This new, 331-square-meter branch of the popular brunch chain introduces a brand-new NT$199 lunch menu that includes a Japanese-style Teriyaki Chicken Set Meal, plus a healthy Mushroom Set Meal. Among other special menu items are Steak Salad (NT$225), served with a plum-flavored specialty sauce, and Chicken Salad (NT$130) with the crispy-outside, soft-inside Linseed Bread. For […] More
Second-generation owner Yang Tze-teh was head of an R&D department in the Hsinchu Science Park but gave that up to devote himself to this family noodle shop, which originated in Miaoli County’s Yuanli township. He has focused on enhancing the quality of his noodles and upon entering customers can see the professional noodle-making station through […] More
This cozy, unpretentious restaurant has indoor/outdoor seating and cooks up affordable, hearty western favorites such as burgers, pasta and steak, plus local and western home-style chicken and pork dishes. Set meals revolve around a main dish–which may be ordered in extra-large servings (add NT$20) and/or as casseroles (add NT$20)–served with bread and side salad (NT$59). […] More
Anyone with kids knows that dining out radically changes once a child comes into the picture. Gone are the days of enjoying a quiet atmosphere alone, a leisurely dinner, slowly enjoying every last morsel of food and sip of wine. This is replaced with trying to keep a little one entertained at the table, as […] More
Just east of the Fongle Sculpture Park, Lazertreks is a great place to spend an hour or two with friends. Providing an hour of laser tag for just NT$350 per person (NT$150 for added hours), this indoor complex offers an inexpensive way to enjoy some unique fun not found anywhere else in Taichung, and “happy […] More
Picture a thick handmade burger with a seven-ounce patty, topped with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, ketchup, mustard, crispy bacon and other ingredients to the point that it barely fits in your hand. This is one of many options (NT$199-249), combining American beef and fresh Taiwanese ingredients between two buns, that can be enjoyed at Burger […] More
Whether it’s a drawing of a kitten, frog or even a fish, all look adorable when used to decorate FiMi’s delicious lattes as Mica Chang, co-owner of this family business, makes unique designs for each cup. Mica, her sister, and brother-in-law started this coffee/pastry shop over a year ago and customers love it. Their handmade […] More
Malt Addict is a bar for both those new to the world of whisky as well as the connoisseur. With an entire wall stacked from top to bottom with whisky bottles, patrons are allowed to explore the selection at their own pace and hand-select a drink of choice to be taken to the bar. Owners […] More
For any special occasions related to wedding, birthday, graduation or house-warming celebrations, a floral arrangement can be a fragrant, elegant gift. Although the lifespans of such items are usually short-lived, Deja vu offers real flowers specially treated to remain beautiful and colorful for years. In September, 2016, Judy and Amber opened their “eternal flowers” business, […] More
While mention of an “exotic dining experience” may conjure images of a Hawaiian luau, belly dancers or deep-fried insects, in Taichung this might be expanded to include eating while surrounded by line dancers, stepping and clapping in time to some good old American country-and-western music. Such an experience can only be regularly found at one […] More
This eatery is a great spot to enjoy fresh-made hot pot, grilled and creative Japanese dishes, as the owner imports seasonal seafood from all over. Blue crabs, mangrove crabs, dungeness crabs and brown crabs, lobsters, abalone, oysters and other items can be enjoyed as sashimi, steamed, grilled, or in a hot pot or porridge by […] More
In a basement on the corner of Taiwan Boulevard and YingCai Road, this attractive gym is an excellent place for a private workout. Members take a photo to create an ID for changing rooms, equipped with personal lockers with convenient facial-recognition access (a first for any Asian training center). The training center focuses on strength […] More
This restaurant specializes in US Prime rib-eye and rib-cap steaks and fresh seafood, as well as Japanese and Australian beef, Japanese pork fillets (from pigs raised on local grape skins and seeds) and New Zealand lamb. All can be enjoyed a la carte or as set meals (NT$1,690-3,600) that include appetizers, soups, salads, desserts and […] More
This spacious, well-illuminated shop, located on Taichung Museum of Fiber Arts’ second floor, features a broad expanse of artificial grass and wall-mounted ferns. The young owner aims to present guests with dishes created from vegetables he cultivates indoors with his agricultural techniques. This shop also serves coffee made from washed, honey-processed single-origin beans grown on […] More
From the outside, this shop–hidden on an alleyway–looks exactly like an empty, bright-pink betelnut shop. However, you’ll find something quite different when you push open the refrigerator-style door to enter this nightspot. Svat Hull (“black hole” in northern German) serves up all sorts of basic cocktail options (NT$300-400) as well as creative, unique cocktails and […] More
Located next to Beitun District’s Xindu Ecology Park and romantic Butterfly Bridge, this restaurant was opened by a youthful chef passionate about the sweet, sour and spicy flavors of Thai cuisine. The menu variety here rivals any other local Thai eatery, with inexpensive main courses (NT$239-269) like Steamed Fish with Lemon, Thai Basil Chili Pork […] More
Targeted at short and longer term international and local business/corporate guests, this modern 20-floor residence, ideally located next to the Rt. 74 expressway, includes 219 service apartments and 41 hotel rooms. A total of eight upscale room styles range from 38-square-meter rooms up to 92-square-meter suites all decorated in classy light browns and tans and […] More
The dishes you see on the table here all originate at a farm owned by this restaurant. This includes about 30 types of reasonably-priced seasonal vegetables, with some rarely-seen varieties like red cabbage, Brazilian fireweed, beet leaves, and Polianthes tuberosa, making this a paradise for veggie lovers. The Xinshe District farm is pesticide-free and the […] More
Customers entering this nostalgic Taiwanese tea shop will immediately sense its richly traditional, pleasing ambiance, which makes it nice for various gatherings. They also can enjoy the authentic teas–including milk and oolong teas–plus snacks and other dishes. Delicacies include a soft, fragrant Sticky Rice Cake with Roasted Tea Flour, Fried Chicken, and Radish Cake (NT$60-110). […] More
December 12 marked the highly-anticipated grand opening of Mitsui Outlet Park Taichung Port. After two years of construction the outlet mall is finally open to the public, complete with dozens of dining options, a seemingly endless selection of shops, and a Ferris wheel. With approximately 170 stores, including about 19 making their Taiwan debut, the […] More
The sea covers 70% of the Earth’s surface and humans explore its often mysterious depths in a variety of ways. If you love surfing, snorkeling, diving, canoeing and other water activities, this is a good place to check out and sells reasonably-priced, professional diving equipment, apparel and certification, plus other watersports clothing and gear, offering […] More
Known as the “Treasure Island”, Taiwan has an abundance of fresh agricultural and sea-harvested products all year round. In recent years, caviar from Taiwan’s aquafarmed sturgeon–so precious to China’s Empress Dowager Cixi and as a high-end western ingredient–has gained popularity. Since 1997, Yu Zhi Xiang (魚之鄉, “Township of Fish”) in Taichung’s Heping District has specialized […] More
Hidden in the upper reaches of a high-rise office building, this cafe’s windows offer a great venue for looking out over the city, day or night, while enjoying a coffee and light snack in a relaxing atmosphere. The freshly-brewed hot coffees, lattes, iced black coffees and other drinks here are also made with crisp-tasting, charcoal-filtered […] More
Head baker Hong Min-lai makes 20 to 30 types of breads and pastries, from French baguettes to chiffon cakes and cake rolls, with flour from Taiwan, France and Japan. Sliced loaves of bread (NT$65-100) are offered in 10 to 15 varieties and flavors and are made with healthy ingredients. Among these, “Fresh Milk Toast” is […] More
By contrast with its more general chain bookstore cousins, this independent book shop is closely integrated with local residents’ lives and often involved with non-profit community activities. The books here also often lean towards the non-mainstream market. Since its establishment in 1995, the shop has been quite popular in Taichung and its unique style includes […] More
KoDo represents yet another high-quality Japanese-style barbecue option along GongYi Road. Walk in and you’ll see fresh meat in the glass-doored refrigerator by the entrance, which leads to the spacious semi-private dining area. The select Wagyu beef here is imported from Japan’s Kumamoto, Kagoshima, Miyazaki and Nagasaki areas and is offered in combination with local […] More
Chef Ah-Shin (Chen Wei-shin), who started out operating a Japanese vendor stand in a traditional market, considers it a privilege to now run this restaurant, offering reasonably-priced dishes made with his experience and skills. Customers sitting at the Capri-style table in front of the semi-open kitchen can focus their attention on a black stone platter […] More
On the Art Museum Parkway, this Tibetan restaurant is run by Dolma from Tibet and Joshi from India. Dolma’s decorations immerse diners in a Tibetan family-style setting, filled with auspicious totems and warm colors. Skilled at cooking Tibetan cuisine, Joshi has worked at famous Indian hotels such as the JP Group of Hotels and The […] More
Known for its excellent beer and curry selections, Orgasmo has relocated to this larger location, conveniently facing the Dongxing Parking Lot. The spacious interior is decorated with an eclectic mix–from hanging lamps to Star Wars posters–and seats around 50 at a long red-brick bar and wood-topped tables, in addition to an outside area. The sizable […] More
Taiwan’s largest climbing gym has opened its doors in Taichung. Designed by owner and avid climber Jimmy Juan, DaPRO Indoor Climbing has 661 square meters of floor space, with walls towering 16 meters high. It also boasts the only publicly accessible standard speed climbing wall in Taiwan, making it a training ground for Olympic hopefuls […] More
One of Taiwan’s best-known craft breweries now has a second Taichung branch near the WenXin-ChongDe intersection. What sets this establishment apart is its interior layout, with seats for about 60 at the bar, tables and a cozy upstairs area, plus an extensive dining menu. This includes a variety of filling meat/seafood dishes–from Italian-Style Fried Chicken […] More
Marriott International–the world’s largest hotel chain–has entered the Taichung market with this 131-room hotel, occupying an attractive building on the corner of XiTun and HuanZhong roads. Under the guidance of General Manager Dario Congera, this “select service” four-star residence is the first Fairfield hotel in Taiwan and offers quality accommodations for reasonable prices, including 26-square-meter […] More
As the sun drops towards the horizon, a delicious variety of dishes start to emerge from the kitchen at this restaurant. Since its opening a year ago, Plate has been offering savory European-style dishes creatively flavored with special sauces and integrating local and imported ingredients and spices. The latest set meal to be promoting here […] More
This blue-and-white Mediterranean restaurant boasts a European-style garden, French windows and crystal chandeliers. Chef Sung Hung-chang uses his many years of cooking experience and artistic creativity to prepare contemporary French cuisine and seasonal set meals with variety and color. Fresh local farm ingredients include traceable agricultural products such as cherry ducks from Yuli, Hualien, “With […] More
Together with canoeing and surfing, paddleboarding has recently become a popular watersport in Taiwan. This means that visitors have yet another way–besides bicycling, boating and swimming–to enjoy central Taiwan’s Sun Moon Lake, famed for its beautiful scenery that changes with the four seasons. Paddle boards usually can accommodate a total weight of up to 150 […] More
Hidden in a high-rise office tower, Cafe Task is popular among office workers for its take-out coffees. The reasonably-priced drinks (NT$55-80/16 oz. cup) here include coffees, milk, teas, and sparkling water, and can be enjoyed with snacks like scones (NT$25-38) and Cheese Tarts (NT$40). If you have the time to sit down, this cafe is […] More
This porridge eatery near LiMing Road has been in business for over three decades and got its original start in Zhongxiao Night Market. While they eat, diners can revel in the surrounding nostalgic atmosphere and decor, from a three-section traditional compound to antique wooden dining tables and benches, red-brick walls and carved window frames. The […] More
In existence since 2001, La Bodega has a well-earned place in Taichung’s dining and nightlife scene, providing the cozy surroundings, live sports, drinks and food offerings of a traditional Spanish tapas bar. However, November saw it undertake the biggest-ever expansion of its menu, thanks to a new partnership between long-time French owner Laurent “Lolo” Rubio […] More
This low-key shop’s simple, natural-feeling atmosphere is meant to give it a relaxing Danish family-style vibe, complete with background music played by owner David on a white piano here. The menu mainly focuses on curry dishes and David recommends Vegetable Curry Rice (NT$150), filled with rich, spicy curry aromas and prepared with apples, king mushrooms, […] More
Huang Da-wei, owner of four Seasons Village vegetarian buffet restaurants, said he loves growing vegetables so much that just looking at them in the field makes him happy. Every one of his 60-plus home-style signature dishes is made with fresh veggies cultivated by local farmers. For dining in, food is served by weight at NT$25 […] More
Originally from Taichung’s Dakeng Scenic Area, this well-known shop producing handmade sausages and cooked meat products has now opened near Park Lane by CMP mall. All kinds of handmade burgers include a classic cheeseburger, Mexican Style Beef Burger (NT$300) and the popular, slightly-pricier Beef Chuck with Egg and Bread (NT$300), prepared with Iberico Pork and […] More
The “67” at this shop, simply decorated in black and white, refers to Saturday and Sunday and its relaxing ambiance. Every dessert here visually resembles various fruits. This includes the apple-like “You Are My Snow White-Poisonous Apple”, made with white chocolate, pomegranates, strawberry and apple filling, but not overly sweet. “Meng Meng-Lemon” is prepared with […] More
Mainly serving Southeast Asian cuisine, this restaurant is run by one of Singapore’s largest catering groups. Live shrimp, fish and crabs picked from the aquarium are prepared with traditional Singapore cookery, fried and steamed with natural ingredients such as sambal, curry leaves, black/white pepper and other spices that richly flavor the seafood dishes. Singapore Jumbo […] More
Determined to open Taichung’s most authentic Singapore-Malaysian restaurant, the Taiwanese-Singaporean duo who run this attractive little eatery offer a full range of classic dishes pairing fresh local produce with imported ingredients, from Singapore white pepper and laksa spices to even the soy sauce. Various options of famed favorites like Hainanese Chicken Rice (NT$180-220), Laksa Noodle […] More
Entertainment and hospitality group, the LOOP inc, known for managing a number of iconic, popular Taipei clubs such as Luxy, Xaga, and Omin for the past 20-plus years, has now opened the spacious ALTA in central Taiwan. This club, whose name means “peak” in Latin, plays electro, house and hip hop music from 10 p.m. […] More
The focus of this new restaurant–which claims to be the only of its kind in Taiwan–is Lamb Spine Hot Pot, made with large scorpion-shaped sections of spinal bone that have earned it its “Yang Xie Zi” (羊蠍子; literally meaning lamb-scorpion) Chinese name. As this attractive eatery’s logo image of cows, sheep and Muslim domes hints, […] More
UltiLife is central Taiwan’s largest, best-equipped crossfit gym, with 925 square meters of air-conditioned space filled with US-imported fitness equipment by reputable brands like Rogue, plus full shower/dressing room facilities. Four very experienced trainers lead one-hour group sessions (max. 10-12 people), which are held seven times per day weekdays (five on Sat.; Sun. off) between […] More
Surrounded by big-screen drama while exploring Taichung Words by Li Jei-yu Photos provided by Lin Wei-kai Translated by Anna Yang Taichung City Government’s recent film development promotions have meant that many movies and TV dramas have been filmed in the city, offering viewers a variety of Taichung perspectives. Where it all started: We grew up […] More
A variety of flowers bloom together at three Expo sites Words by Yang Yu-ying Translated by Anna Yang Photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government The Nov. 3 grand opening of the Taichung World Flora Exposition is taking place at three different sites in Houli, Waipu and Fengyuan districts. In addition to the […] More
This low-key, yet elegant, restaurant focuses on grilled Australian and Japanese Wagyu beef and seating is limited to a few comfy bar stools at the counter. The pleasant-looking chef, Eric, carefully selects ingredients served to customers, including all beef cuts and seasonings, and even slices and grills meat himself. As Eric aims to offer a […] More
This little gem, hidden on a small Changhua City alley, offers expertly made cocktails. Sliding doors open to reveal a small bar with a wall full of liquors and four stools. Here, customers get the intimate and up-close experience of watching the owner/bartender mixing drinks with quality liquors and fresh handmade fruit ingredients. There are […] More
International award-winning pastry chef Chen Li-che, whose winning creations resemble modern art masterpieces more than edible desserts, brings his unrestrained dessert concepts to Taichung gourmands. The shop’s white walls, marbled counters and gold piping create a comfortable modern art gallery and cafe vibe, showcasing each customer’s beautiful desserts and pleasing the stomach and eyes. Some […] More
The world’s largest sporting-goods retailer, France-based Decathlon, has opened its second Taichung store in Beitun. With the same spacious 4,000-square-meter retail area as the Nantun branch, the Beitun store has an additional 3,000-square-meter rooftop area with basketball, football, baseball, archery, tennis, badminton and golf facilities. Here customers can check out sports equipment, including shoes and […] More
If you enjoy desserts but are worried about your weight, this shop’s Congele Duke French Handmade Ice Cream is a good option. Chef David, whose baking passion dates back to childhood, insists on using natural ingredients to flavor his desserts, following French culinary traditions. With an educational background in technology, he also understands how to […] More
Fans of authentic Indian cooking will enjoy the Hill Park’s dishes, which include items not seen in other local restaurants. Chicken Curry (NT$260) and Beef Curry (NT$280) are among the most popular entrees and Butter Chicken (NT$260) is terrific for kids and those who don’t like spicy food. Palak Paneer (Spinach Cheese) (NT$250), a mix […] More
Olive Bistro is a quaint family restaurant serving home-style western comfort food, with a few Thai and Filipino dishes thrown into the mix. As many ingredients as possible are handmade, including all sauces, hash browns, sausages, croutons and cookies. The menu includes pasta dishes, appetizers, sandwiches, soups, salads and brunch. Lemon-Garlic-Shrimp Pasta (NT$110) is one […] More
An armed knight statue and vaulted entrance welcome customers to sample seafood, charcoal-heated hotpot here. Charcoal is used everywhere, from filtering kettle water to the Bonito Seaweed Hotpot where, the owner notes, it helps absorb the saltiness. This hotpot consolidates the seafood, meat and vegetable flavors and the added taste of charcoal adds an extra […] More
Frangipani grows in front of this white western-style house, on an alley behind Chung Yo Department Store, and trees shade the tables on sunny days, creating a charming, romantic ambiance. The chef’s focus is on Japanese-meets-western cuisine made-to-order with fresh ingredients. The a la carte entrees can be upgraded to set meals with yogurt, fresh […] More
Sporting a cozy, warmly-illuminated British-themed interior, this restaurant also features charging stations for electronic devices and free WiFi, making it a nice venue for enjoying brunch (NT$230-360) and afternoon tea gatherings, or hanging out all day over a book or laptop. Expressed by its name, Mr. Lazy’s relaxing atmosphere is completed with background jazz music […] More
The world-famous Jadeite Cabbage comes to Taichung Words and photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government Translated by Anna Yang The 2018 Taichung World Flora Expo is due to welcome yet another very honored guest–the National Palace Museum’s renowned Jadeite Cabbage. This favorite museum sculpture, as well as a smaller Qing Dynasty jadeite […] More
Moncoeur (“my heart” in French) has become a leading Taichung destination for dates and weddings, with its romantic atmosphere announced in the large letters L-O-V-E at the entrance. The NT$200 admission fee gets visitors NT$150 in decorated tokens to be spent in the tree-shaded areas, with destinations including metal cutouts of shadows creating a silhouette […] More
To the delight of expatriates nostalgic about food from Singapore and Malaysia, Sinmay Kitchen is one local eatery that specializes in Chinese-style hawker food. Despite the scarcity of authentic ingredients, Chef Vincent Gan manages to cook up some authentic-tasting, reasonably-priced dishes. Topping the list of recommendations is Hainanese Chicken Rice (NT$159), which uses Taiwanese free-range […] More
Dario and his Sicilian friend and chef have opened this traditional eatery serving authentic Sicilian cooking. As many diners may be familiar with this kind of food, Dario has opted to focus on authentic Sicilian cuisine made with mostly-imported ingredients and spices. Pasta Al Ragu Alla Bolognese (NT$230) is flavorful but not cloying, prepared with […] More
This old house on an alleyway in a slowly-fading neighborhood behind The Splendor Hotel was renovated with the owner’s ingenuity and respect for old structures. Here, customers can enjoy nearly 200 craft beers selected from around the world, as well as a global variety of other alcoholic drinks, displayed in refrigerators with glasses. This cozy […] More
This cozy Italian restaurant, hidden in the lively neighborhood around China Medical University, is situated in a renovated house surrounded by a small yard (where diners can also sit). The second floor is decorated with travel photos taken by husband-and-wife owners Jolina and Shane, who studied cooking in Australia and prepare fresh dishes made with […] More
Owners Bonnie and Katherine offer four attractively presented dishes here–two Hakka-style and two western-style–as brunch/lunch options. These can be enjoyed in the charming two-floor premises, pleasantly decorated with sketches and hanging lamps, and a little outdoor garden. Yorkshire Pudding Party (NT$309) is made with milk, eggs, flour and seasonings and served with select stewed beef, […] More
If you have a hankering for vegetarian dining, this restaurant is a decent option. Walking inside through the glass entrance takes you away from the outside world and into a cozy dining space with wooden tables and chairs, surrounded by plants, classy furniture and relaxing music. This ambiance is matched with a variety of handmade […] More
Situated in the quiet Liming Community, this Mediterranean-style restaurant offers a cozy, relaxing, tree-shaded dining ambiance perfect for a sunny day. Classic Italian dishes include chewy, fragrant pizzas (NT$280-460), Country-Style Fattoria (starts from NT$450) and home-style Italian pasta dishes (NT$320-420) prepared with fresh local vegetables and tomatoes, black pork, fresh seafood, and imported Italian sun-dried […] More
This recently-opened bistro at the intersection of DongShan and HanXi East roads has a loft-style interior with a east-meet-west mix of decorations. The Happy Western Platter (NT$200) includes french fries, chicken wings and onion rings with the chef’s specialty honey mustard and tartar sauces. Fish Roe and Scallop Linguine (NT$450) is prepared with fresh Hokkaido […] More
The four cooks here accumulated years of experience at renowned Japanese restaurants before starting their own establishment, offering reasonably-priced, quality, classic Japanese cuisine in a tastefully furnished modern setting. The deceptively simple-looking, but delicious, sushi (Nigiri Sushi NT$40-70, Aburi Sushi NT$$40-120, sushi set meal NT$588) is created with fresh fish shipped in daily from the […] More
Founded in Australia and boasting over 1,500 centers globally, F45 (Functional 45) is a unique entry into Taichung’s growing fitness market and the first of this brand in Taiwan. Coaches interview new members to evaluate their fitness and exercise levels and habits before getting them into the F45 system, backed by an app that all […] More
Words by Huang Yi-ting Photography provided by Lai Chi-yang Translated by Anna Yang Gaomei Wetland, Tanyasheng Bikeway and other famous Taichung visitor destinations are consistently popular with families and couples. If your knowledge of coastal Taichung is limited to Gaomei Wetland in the south but doesn’t include Da’an in the north, you’re really missing out! […] More
It was just a year ago that Compass Magazine was touting the fact that the 2017 Compass Taichung International Food & Music Festival was “coming home” to its long-time venue at the Art Museum Parkway. While that event was a big success, organizers will once again moving one of the city’s oldest, and biggest, international […] More
This restaurant offers a good range of reasonably-priced Japanese dishes and a warmly-illuminated, cozy setting that usually leaves diners feeling satisfied, sated and flying high, like the eatery’s name seems to imply. The menu ranges across broiled, grilled, deep-fried and other choices, sashimi selections, and seafood donburi (NT$89-368) with prices for these premium home-style dishes […] More
Meow is a traditional Japanese teppanyaki-style restaurant offering fresh-made, wholesome food cooked right in front of you. For very reasonable prices, diners can enjoy the skills of Chef Roy Pan, who has over 24 years of experience and is a favorite among Taiwanese celebrities, music stars and politicians. A variety of ingredients (NT$50-90) includes tofu […] More
Poke (pronounced poh-kay) means “to slice” or “cut crosswise into pieces” in Hawaiian and describes a traditional Hawaiian dish that continues to spread across the world. Poke normally entails mixing sliced raw fish and seafood with various ingredients, seasonings and sauces–many Japanese and Asian inspired–for a fresh, light and healthy meal. Co-owner Didi Lu, who […] More
Located near Providence and Hungkuang universities, this matcha shop’s Japanese ambiance includes a cozy tatami private room, wooden tables and chairs and space for up to 45. Tea leaves from Japan’s second-largest tea house, Yamamasa Koyamaen, are offered and owner Anna Li stresses food presentation and flavors. Among the options is a platter with five […] More
If you fancy Taiwan bubble tea but want to savor it in a comfortable environment, this is the cafe to try it out in. Located in Taichung’s highest-end residential district, this place provides modern decor and enjoyable views of the quiet neighborhood. The upper floor offers six breakfast and brunch selections, including Eggs Benedict (NT$390) […] More
This is the second of In House Group’s low-key, yet luxurious, residences in Taichung City with 109 rooms and modern facilities on 12 floors. The first-floor European-style cafe is open from noon to night to room guests and outside diners alike. Other facilities include a swimming pool with bar on the top floor, two bright […] More
This classical-style, yet modern-looking, cafe is located on the first floor of a low-profile hotel, which offers excellent cuisine in addition overnight stays. The pleasantly comfortable and elegant ambiance and good service makes this suitable for a variety of business and social gatherings. The menu includes steaks, risotto and pasta dishes (NT$270-320) such as the […] More
The sound of piano music and a grove of sabino trees creates a magical setting and introduction to this romantic dining venue, where you are rejuvenated with surrounding art and music as you enjoy a meal. A good mix of creative main dishes (NT$400-1,080) is prepared by the well-regarded chef here, including Roasted Lamb with […] More
Resembling a supermarket’s meat/seafood section, this Chung Yo Department Store B3-level restaurant offers fresh seafood shipped directly from the harbor. By the entrance is a fresh ingredients section with various high-quality, reasonably-priced seafood, meat and hot pot ingredients in containers and packages. This include lobsters, wild prawns, Argentine red shrimp, flatfish, European squid, grouper, sea […] More
Famous Japanese cartoon egg character Gudetama is the focus of this 80-seat theme restaurant, whose fun decor–including shell-like lamps, egg-shaped doors and a slide decorated with fried eggs–makes this an great spot for gatherings. One of the most unique dishes here is the Rocking Salad (NT$260)–egg, shrimp, chicken, corn and vegetables with sesame dressing that […] More
Words by Hsu Wan-ching and Fan Yen-ping Photography provided by Yeh Lin-chiao Translated by Anna Yang Taichung’s Dasyueshan (Big Snow Mt.) offers a wide variety of natural spectacles and experiences. One of central Taiwan’s best spots for escaping the summer heat, it allows visitors to enjoy hikes and leisurely forest walks. With the arrival […] More
Words by Cyu Wen-fong Translated by Candy Chang, Mandy Guo & Anna Yang Photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government In the darkness, a graceful shadow glides through a hillside forest, a fleeting appearance that leaves the impression of beauty on those fortunate to witness it. The leopard cat–one of God’s more […] More
For a very long time, the bulk of Taichung’s large-scale retail and entertainment centers have been restricted to Taiwan Boulevard area venues like Shinkong Mitsukoshi, Top City, Tiger City and SOGO malls and department stores. However, that recently changed with the brand-new, seven-floor Showtime cinema and shopping complex on WenXin South Road in Nantun District […] More
This shop offers wedding cakes and gift boxes that mainly allow newlyweds to pick out their favorite sweets. There are over 10 kinds of handmade cookies and customers can also request customized items, such as featuring adorable-looking macarons with exquisite designs. These popular treats are low in sugar, offer light almond flavors, and are so […] More
Hidden along quiet GongZheng Road, this cozy restaurant offers authentic Indian curry and other dishes. Including striking glass-bottle decorations on the front wall and the interior’s industrial-style design are part of the reason why shop owner Mr. Tsai and his Indian chef met and opened this shop together. The menu includes various curry and naan […] More
Fresh mountain vegetables, homemade 100% preservative-free sausages, tuna, crispy bacon, quinoa, avocados, black rice, and coffee with New Zealand milk are some of the elements in a nutritious brunch at Melb & Co. This small cafe offers a variety of flavors in large, colorful dishes decorated with edible flowers like pansies, miniature roses and dianthus. […] More
This buffet restaurant promotes the dining concept of using local organic farm produce and other healthy ingredients to create light meals. The total 15 to 25 fresh vegetarian dishes in the buffet here are simply seasoned with tea seed oil, Wufeng District mushrooms, organic rice from Hualien County, and fresh fruit. A variety of fresh […] More
This spacious, 496-square-meter, family-friendly restaurant revolves around the tale of three little dinosaurs who saw an aurora on a volcanic island at latitude 3.5 degrees. Besides a first-floor dining area, there’s a second-floor games area for kids. There are also menu items suitable for toddlers and senior citizens. Executive Chef Yang Yuan-ming offers his creative […] More
Situated along the Dadu Blue Highway, this cafe is near hiking trails and the Wangaoliao Night View Park on top of Dadu Mountain and one of the best times to visit is around sunset, when great ocean views can be enjoyed. The cafe is also a nice spot to savor a cup of coffee or […] More
On the ground floor of The Place Taichung Hotel, this 84-seat restaurant provides a spacious, stylishly-modern setting illuminated by glass walls offering views of the green belt across the street. With 20 years of experience at Taipei’s Westin and W hotels, Executive Chef Ren Ren Huang offers exceptionally creative dishes that follow his philosophy of […] More
Techno Bistro and W Restaurant have cooperated to open this new restaurant and bar offering a spot for savoring a mix of creative fusion cuisine and various classy cocktails. For dining, the Salted Egg Potato Mousse with Souse Vide Egg (NT$180) and Baby Squid with Stew Beans (NT$260) are recommended, as they combine local ingredients […] More
This attractive Nordic-style dessert shop, hidden in a tranquil residential neighborhood, was opened by shop director Yang Hao-yu, who studied in France, and a couple of pastry chefs–Frenchman Francois Larrive and his Taiwanese wife. The beautiful French desserts (NT$180-280) here vary every month. “Marry Me” is a dreamy creation that resembles a ring, decorated with […] More
This is a great spot for enjoying both expertly-crafted cocktails and high-quality, made-from-scratch cuisine, offering both a quieter ambiance and a party atmosphere for reasonable prices. The first-floor lounge has plenty of booth seating and places at the bar to enjoy starters or main courses until 3 a.m. The latter includes Boston Lobster and Scallops […] More
Run by Taihu Brewing, Chuoyinshi is a craft beer place located in an old government housing complex renovated by the Fantasy Group as the well-known “Green Ray Project” and has been serving creative brews made with local ingredients since its opening over a year ago. However, with the opening of CYS Burger on its second […] More
Mr. & Mrs. Restaurant is run by a lovely young couple who enjoy Taichung’s sunny weather and relaxed pace of life. The international mix of hearty meal options includes rice, curry, stewed beef and pasta dishes (NT$220-380) made with seasonal ingredients. For an extra charge, diners can upgrade meals to add a naturally-flavored soup and […] More
Words and photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government Translated by Anna Yang Taichung City Government has been motivated to continue its efforts to create an aesthetically-pleasing flora city. In order to provide outdoor leisure and recreational spots for everyone, government plans are underway to develop a total of 41 parks, green pathways […] More
Perhaps you’ve dreamt of standing on high mountain peak, but worried that your physical condition wouldn’t allow such an achievement. Fear not, for the summit of 3,237-meter Shimen Mountain–one of Taiwan’s so-called “100 Peaks”–near the more famous Hehuan Mountain (Hehuanshan) can be climbed in as little as half an hour. Driving along Taiwan’s highest roadway, […] More
With the sweltering heat and humidity of summer in full swing, it’s time to switch up our drinks to something more seasonal. A refreshing cocktail can do wonders for escaping the sticky heat and mentally transporting oneself to a relaxing tropical beach overlooking the ocean. Whether it’s a classic margarita, revitalizing Tom Collins, or a […] More
The restaurant-like name of this toy shop, hidden on an YiZhong Street alleyway, is a a bit misleading as it focuses on solely on knickknacks, toys, accessories and clothing. The variety means that a visit here is not just a shopping trip and more like a toy treasure hunt. Even from the outside, passers-by can […] More
This corner Thai restaurant’s relaxing, cozy ambiance offers the feeling of a Chiang Mai jungle, decorated with a variety of plants such as bird of paradise, orchids and lilies that create a good photo-taking setting. There is a focus on royal northern Thai flavors and presentation and the excellent mix of dishes (NT$220-450) includes Tom […] More
Central District’s steady revitalization, including recently beautified river banks and brand-new bus and rail terminals, also features a flood of new boutique hotels, making it a hub for tourists and other visitors. Whether you’re a visitor or, like me, a resident that simply loves hanging out in the oldest part of town, Sachsen was a […] More
For Arthur Weisse, the road between his native Paris and ownership of Gulu’s House French Cuisine was an indirect one. About six years ago while traveling in Thailand as part of an Asian tour, he met his future Taiwanese wife, leading him to Taichung. After some time here, it was natural that the chef–whose kitchen […] More
Under the guidance of Italian chef/owner Valerio Franchi, Bella Roma is one of the best places to savor traditional Italian cuisine in Taichung. You can do this not only through its menu of select dishes but also via special weekly offers that ensure there’s always something new to try during a visit. As walk in, […] More
Located inside Shalu District’s Tong Yi Afternoon Market, this cozy, Japanese-style shop offers both outdoor and indoor air-conditioned dining areas. In keeping with popular Japanese coastal culinary trends, live seafood is selected from a tank and shrimp and crabs can be grilled up by diners at their tables. Prices for live Thai shrimp are NT$380-480 […] More
Customers of this cafe will be spoiled for choices with authentic Italian culinary treats, from pasta, pizza, salad and desserts to coffee/tea, wine, spirits and even lifestyle products. In a lavishly furnished setting that exudes a distinctive Italian style, one can enjoy a relaxing afternoon with hot tea (NT$250) brewed in a beautiful porcelain pot, […] More
In keeping with its location facing the Calligraphy Greenway and National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, this brand-new 170-room hotel has a strong artistic vibe, from its playfully-designed roofline to the works of local guest artists (rotating every six months) that greet visitors on every floor. Part of the Royal Hotel Group and the third […] More
Vegetarian and other customers seeking meat-free, yet tasty, meals will be sated by the dishes offered at this new eatery, which serves meatless western-style cuisine without compromising flavors. One such dish is the pesto-based Pasta of Mushroom (NT$250). Its sauce is made without garlic but retains the expected intense aroma and taste of pine nuts, […] More
This nostalgic 1950s-style restaurant has moved from Shalu District to GongYi “Restaurant Road”. The second floor is filled with cultural decorations, including a traditional singers stage, puppet show stage and old dolls, that make it a favorite location for customer photos. Besides nostalgic knickknacks, the spacious dining areas also have various themes that include mainland-style, […] More
Located in a renovated house, this establishment’s design elements are drawn from the owner’s childhood memories as well as inspiration from his time as a student in England. The most eye-catching aspect of the interior is the natural sunlight that falls from a skylight, nurturing the plumeria plants around the dining area. The entire ambiance […] More
Located on the second floor of Moving Star Hotel, this restaurant offers a tidy-feeling, relaxing dining environment, together with creative dishes cooked up by the Thai chef with a combo of traditional Thai spices and local ingredients for great flavors suited perfectly to local palates. A good balance of spicy and sour flavors can be […] More
The Liang Jin cattle farm was founded 30 years ago on Kinmen island and its cows are fed with a mix of farm grass and grain from a Kaoliang liquor distillery. The farm also opened a shop offering beef jerky completely sourced its livestock and in 2015 began promoting specially-flavored Distiller’s Grain Beef Noodles. Since […] More
Words and photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government Translated by Anna Yang Flowing along Fengyuan District’s Huludun Park, Ruanbizai River is the only waterway found within the World Flora Expo’s three main venues. The Fengyuan site has been divided into five areas and Taichung City Government has developed a one-hectare man-made waterfront […] More
Taichung has regularly hosted a variety of excellent art exhibitions in recent years that have attracted many visitors to art-related venues along or near West District’s Calligraphy Greenway and North District. This success and popularity has also helped boost art galleries, studios and exhibitions in this general area, including the following examples. –By Taylor Melton […] More
This restaurant offers Cajun food commonly associated with New Orleans, with dishes like Gumbo (NT$360) and Jambalaya (NT$360) reminding customers of everyday Louisiana-style dining. The Gumbo stew is cooked with a strong-flavored stock thickened with file powder and served with seafood or chicken/sausage over rice. The seasonings of the Jambalaya dish hint at its Spanish […] More
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Since southern Taiwan’s legendary Smokey Joe’s opened its flagship Taichung store, it has made a big impression on Taichung diners. That impact is initially visual, with its big villa-like structure, outdoor courtyard and fountain, and spacious 172-seat interior, filled to every corner with an eclectic mix of nostalgic items selected by owner Amy Wu. Including […] More
Taichung diners love nothing more than great value for their money. Since arriving in Taichung from Hsinchu last August, this steakhouse has been offering exactly that, serving high-quality American beef and other fresh-made fare in a classy ambiance for very reasonable prices. The restaurant’s upscale premises, including table and booth seating, a private VIP room, […] More
One block from National Chin-Yi University, this pizzeria serves authentic American-style 19.6- inch pizzas topped with juicy meats and fresh vegetables. During peak times, customers were once willing to wait three hours for Rocky’s pizza delivery. However, now they can enjoy it immediately at this new sit-down location. The menu includes the Supreme (NT$450) with […] More
This modern, spacious Japanese chain store is probably one of the most attractive bookshops you’ll find anywhere. In addition to Japanese books and magazines, as well as Chinese and English adults’ and children’s books, it also sells daily-living necessities. In addition, customers can enjoy some relaxing dining and drinking with Wired Tokyo cafe’s famous Okinawa […] More
This store’s opulent decor and cheese-wine pairings highlight the pleasurable experience of wine tasting. The business periodically organizes wine tasting sessions and opens its second-floor VIP rooms for rental by outside companies for educational and meeting purposes. During opening period, the shop is focusing on introducing the wines of Austria and Australia, whose different terroirs […] More
Sitting on the second floor of this restaurant offers enjoyable views of Dongfeng Bikeway, built on an old railway bed. Surrounding greenery and wood aromas also offer natural sensations for diners. The simple dishes served here are prepared with local farm products and examples include the well-marinated Tomahawk Pork Chop Set Meal (NT$680), served with […] More
This restaurant serves dishes prepared from live seafood, mostly flown in from the Penghu islands. Diners can pick fresh seafood dishes like King-Sized Fleshy Prawn (NT$350) or Garoupa (NT$800), cooked according to their liking–steamed, grilled or stir-fried. In addition, there’s a wide selection of stir-fried dishes popular among Taiwanese, such as Three Cups Chicken (NT$250), […] More
Visitors to the bustling Fengjia Night Market area can swing over to this strikingly-beautiful new restaurant to relax and enjoy western-style fusion cuisine and drinks in a comfortable setting. The modern design and cleverly-illuminated decor truly stand out and the varied menu includes Italian-style risotto and pasta entrees, starters like Salad with Fried Cuttlefish (NT$280) […] More
L’AROME Restaurant offers exceptionally-prepared fine dining in sleek-looking premises with an open kitchen. Chef Raymond creates dishes grounded in French cooking techniques with added international flair so that flavors and techniques overlap. The menu is short, yet varied, with multiple sets for diners to choose from (NT$980-NT$2,380). Wine pairings (NT$660-1,130 bottle) are also offered by […] More
This nightspot’s decor is a combination of nostalgic and modern, encasing customers with crystal-like mirrors and lighting as they are greeted by the friendly staff and sidle up to the crescent-shaped bar to enjoy a drink or two in the relaxing ambiance. Various all-you-can-drink cocktails are offered from Mondays to Thursdays (NT$650/men, NT$450/women) and on […] More
Those who are looking to relax, perhaps relieve some work-related stress, and happen to be in the Fengjia Night Market area can stop by this new business for a foot massage. This shop, affiliated with Chiu Hong Gu Company, features an interior that is divided into private rooms, decorated with elegant blue lights that match […] More
This flagship Gamix VR arcade offers up to 12 types of virtual reality games. From Project Cars (F1 racing) and Halo Motorcycle Racing to kid-friendly VR games, there is something fun for gamers of all ages and both genders to enjoy. The imported game equipment is completely new, using expensive HTC Vive headsets (about NT$20,000 […] More
This elegant beef noodle shop pays extra attention to its ingredients and dining environment, as evidenced by its exclusive use of Legle France brand utensils. The menu may look basic, but don’t miss out on delicacies like bowls of Clear Soup and Braised Beef Soup noodles and NT$100 side dishes. Clear Soup Beef Noodles (NT$900) […] More
Even non-vegetarians should be attracted to this cozy eatery, a far cry from traditional Buddhist vegetarian buffets. Instead, its modern-feeling, spacious setting is illuminated by natural light and decorated with flowers and greenery. The buffet area is well-stocked with a variety of fresh vegetables, cold dishes, salads, steamed and fried foods, fried rice, buns, sushi […] More
This teppanyaki restaurant offers top-quality, reasonably-priced set meals, starting from a NT$180 seven-course Sliced Pork/Lamb set. Well-known chef Yu Ching-long, whose past experience includes stints at Monarch Plaza Hotel, The Lalu at Sun Moon Lake, Hotel Royal and Chateau De Chine, uses his skill and creativity to present diners with exquisite main-course specialities (NT$380-880). Made […] More
Opened by the trio of Minnesotans who run The Uptowner, this American-style sports bar directly opposite SOGO is a big, much-needed addition to Taichung’s nightlife scene. Customers can watch a variety of live sports on multiple screens, play pool or darts, and enjoy food and drinks on the spacious first and second floors, both equipped […] More
With healthy dining now the rage, vegetarian options such as alcohol-free, ovo-lacto vegetarian and no-added-spice cuisine are now frequently available in many restaurants, putting it in reach of even busy diners. In keeping with this trend, Happy Mom Kitchen offers fresh-made dishes with ingredients sourced from local farms. Besides the more common fried rice (NT$150 […] More
This place offers great wines, whiskeys, tobacco and other spirits in a sleek, modern establishment. Wines consist mainly of Old World wines with some New World ones thrown into the mix. This includes some wines that are hard to find in Taiwan like the Il Traditore (NT$799), a sparkling red wine, Cabernet Franc Icewine (NT$3,400), […] More
Words and photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government Translated by Anna Yang Designing the Flora Expo venue and mascot around the protected leopard cat It is a well-known fact that Taichung City is hosting the World Flora Exposition from November this year. A few years ago, as the city government conducted a […] More
French culinary and baking techniques are at the heart of most modern-day western food and dining traditions and countries with their own rich and varied baking backgrounds–including Italy, Denmark, Austria and Germany–owe a great deal to the innovative French bakers who came before them. Over the past decade, multiple French bakeries (or patisseries) have sprung […] More
Flamenco originates in the southern Spanish region of Andalucia. Its original elements of singing, dancing and guitar were later joined by clapping and stamping. Flamenco’s artistic and cultural influences can be traced back to a variety of sources thanks to Andalucia’s geography, people, history and religions, with roots branching out to Gypsy, Islamic, Jewish, Central […] More
Near a tranquil street corner, a tree-shaded, half-century-old building is bathed in sunshine. This old house, owned by a lovely young couple, displays all kinds of knickknacks collected from Taiwan, Japan and other countries–all part of memories from their life journey. This daily necessities shop was opened by the owners as a reminder to enjoy […] More
Recently-opened In The Alley provides Taichung with a unique venue and weekend destination for a fun mix of entertainment that includes live bands, comedy shows and pub quizzes. This place is on a narrow alley between Calligraphy Greenway and MeiCun Road, just around the corner from sister business Subau restaurant (9, Lane 83, MeiCun Rd., […] More
Coconut World is among the higher-end dining establishments along Taichung’s “restaurant road”, GongYi Road, and offers Coconut Chicken and other healthy hotpots that originate in China’s Guangzhou and Hainan. The 1,984-square-meter stand-alone building has seating for 200 in spacious dining areas filled in every corner with romantic Southeast Asian decor. There are also six private […] More
Nest Kitchen’s name evokes images of a cozy, warm place for enjoying hearty cooking and indeed it is. It also demonstrates the truth that good things can come in small packages and that quality dining doesn’t require a high price tag. This Italian restaurant was opened a year ago by Chef Peng Yi-ping, who previously […] More
A western ambiance and bright dining area decorated with plants creates a setting here for savoring healthy eastern zen-style vegetarian entrees. The restaurant–whose name is a transliteration for “delicious” in Taiwanese–serves tasty dishes such as Spicy Noodles, Broiled Tofu, Vegetables over Rice, and Red Beans Mixed with Black Rice that are all reasonably-priced and healthy. […] More
Recent years in Taiwan have seen the transformation of dogs and cats from household pets into full-fledged “furry children” and members of the family. Owners can be frequently seen walking their “furkids” in parks during weekends, or pushing them around in pet strollers on shopping trips to malls and other venues. At the same time, […] More
In a change from most teppanyaki eateries, Mori’s dishes are non-greasy and the chef only uses the naturally-present meat fats when creating succulent, wonderfully-fragrant delicacies on the sizzling teppanyaki griddle. More
Located in quiet, yet prospering, neighborhood, this old house is filled with savory coffee aromas. For his cafe’s name, owner Jimmy has creatively combined his street number and “spring” (chun) to mean “more than enough”. This hidden urban gem only serves desserts and coffees, made from coffee beans that the owner sources from local farms […] More
KAKA Patisserie features meticulously-crafted gourmet pastries made entirely from scratch from fresh, high-quality local organic ingredients. These delicious desserts are intentionally bite-sized and, at NT$50 apiece, allow customers to experience more than one treat at a time. Pastries constantly change according to seasons and the availability of fresh produce. Currently, featured desserts include a Lemon […] More
Opposite Central District’s ASEAN Square and down a vibrant shopping street, Red Brick is a good option for dinner and/or a few drinks. Live music from 7:30 to 9:15 every evening, combined with a friendly staff and equally-friendly patrons also gives this place an incredibly relaxing atmosphere.If you’re hungry, everything on the menu is fantastic […] More
This organization’s focus and efforts are directed toward needy families and children as it provides them with opportunities to learn essential life skills. TSWA’s sisterhood workshop, established in 2015, mainly offers middle-aged women, including single mothers, classes in making chewy, handmade steamed buns with naturally-fermented flour and no unhealthy additive ingredients. These buns (NT$10-25) are […] More
This restaurant’s flexibility means that its varied seafood-based menu of premium, authentically-flavored Taiwanese/Sichuan dishes can be enjoyed during a variety of occasions, whether that’s casual private dining or banquet events such as weddings of up to 400 people. Popular dishes include the award-winning fresh, aromatic Mushroom and Lamb Casserole (NT$500) prepared with Pleurotus mushrooms, king […] More
Words and photos provided by Information Bureau of Taichung City Government, Translated by Anna Yang It is now the 20th year that Taichung City has organized this large-scale Mazu celebration, which not only preserves cultural traditions but also Mazu’s compassionate practices in our society. The Mazu festival and pilgrimage are among Taiwan’s most popular religious […] More
This school campus-themed cafe, located on the first-floor corner of SOGO Department Store, echoes the design of a sister cafe in Taipei. Inside, TVs showing sports broadcasts, banner-draped walls and other decorations provide a lively, youthful setting for enjoying sandwiches, burgers and pasta entrees (NT$120-380). The Deluxe Caesar Salad (NT$220), pesto-based Mushroom Chicken Risotto (NT$200), […] More
Lacquerware is a daily necessity for the Japanese. Thus, it’s no surprise that they worked during Taiwan’s Japanese colonial era to transmit lacquer-making skills and cultivate lacquer trees in order to promote this craft and its related culture. Starting during this time, Fengyuan became Taiwan’s main center for lacquer art, thanks in part to proximity […] More
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From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 The owner of this restaurant, born and raised in Thailand, has always dreamed of sharing Thai cuisine from back home with Taiwanese by opening a restaurant here. The result of that dream is Tai Xin Thai Restaurant. This pleasant eatery features dishes that are mainly from […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 155, JungChi Road (Taichung Kang Rd.), Shalu Town, Taichung County (opposite Providence University) Taichung’s pub scene has recently exploded with variety and diversity, with one of the loudest “bangs” emanating from over the hill in Shalu town. Big Rose Bang started life last spring as a small, cozy […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 Restaurant Roundup by Tammy Huang Translated by Patricia Li Sono Japanese Cuisine This spacious, 200-ping restaurant has been serving fine Japanese cuisine for 17 years. It has the nostalgia of an old Japanese garden and private tatami rooms where you can enjoy the ambiance. Former […] More
George of the Sea From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 It is a rainy, blustering Tuesday night and Uncle George is packed to the gills. Over six years in business, this restaurant still fills up with customers. Clearly, owner Zion “Charles” Hsieh has found the key to long-term restaurant success–good service and great food. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 This attractive little book store is owned by the Cite Publishing Group and is the second on the island after a first store in Taipei. Located opposite and just down the road from T.G.I. Friday’s, it is attached to an equally nice-looking Dante Cafe branch, which opens earlier […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 One of the biggest global names in music retailing has finally arrived in Taichung, with a large, 150-ping store on the 10th floor of Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Department Store. Living up to its slogan, “No Music, No Life”, Tower a excellent selection of CDs across the musical […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 Upscale exclusivity is the main theme behind this swanky bar, located in an attractive house on a quiet lane in the heart of Little Europe area of Taichung. The management has created a private, safe place targeted at the cool, classy and, preferably, well-dressed. Walk through the steel […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 Nicely located on a fairly quiet lane behind Taichung City Hall, this new teahouse has a spacious, comfortable, modern feel to it, with about 80 seats upstairs and downstairs. A pleasant option for good weather is the row of outdoor balcony tables (with glass roof in case of […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 Brought to you by the owners of the popular Cafe Marihuana, this spacious, two-floor establishment is located just behind Chung Yo Department Store, next to the basement parking ramp. It is a striking place, with the decor a modern mix of Asian and Western themes. Some of the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 Italian-style ice cream, better known as gelato, appears to be one of the latest fads in Taiwan, as evidenced by this excellent little Chungteh Road outlet, opposite the Yumaoou supermarket. Owner George Luo studied gelato-making in Milan for three months and now brings an unprecedented 70-plus freshly-made flavors […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, OCT. 2002 Ideally located in the heart of the Jing Cheng Road dining and shopping area, about a block from Taichung Kang Road, this pleasant restaurant has a classy, upscale feel to it, but provides good food for very affordable prices. The bright, cozy interior features Asian-style decor with plenty […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: The name of this establishment and the French tricolor fluttering outside are hints to what is offered inside. Located along the Wuchuan Parkway, this attractive European-style eatery draws attention with its breezy-looking cream-color exterior and interior. Just as nice, though, is the menu, which features filling cuisine from […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: Faithful patrons of Fatty’s Italian restaurant may have felt a flutter of fear upon seeing closed doors at this popular eatery’s in late August. There is no need, however, to be worried, as owner Hendrik Frijling temporarily shut down to carry out a renovation of the physical establishment–worn […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: This exciting new addition to Taichung’s American bistro-style dining scene is the fulfillment of a long dream by the man behind Taichung’s successful Little Italy restaurants, Roger Jeng. Located on the Wuchuan Parkway, a few stores down from Little Italy, Chicago Chips follows a formula popularized by places […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: By Ni-Ang Chen Translated by Patricia Li La Terrasse offers delicious French dishes, but their sandwiches are also absolutely worth a try. Like other well-known quality delis, cafes and bistros, all the sandwiches at La Terrasse are quite equally popular. The Philly cheese steak (NT$170) is a complicated, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: By Ni-Ang Chen Translated by Patricia Li As one walks into Finga’s, it is obvious that the restaurant is really as unique as its name. The menu holds over 20 to 30 distinctive kinds of cold cuts and hot subs including the salami and provolone sub (NT$160), the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: By Ni-Ang Chen Translated by Patricia Li Sugar & Spice offers various healthy sandwiches for very reasonable prices. Some of the new sandwiches include the cheddar and mozzarella cheese (NT$130), the smoked chicken and tuna club sandwich (NT$130) and the egg salad sandwich (NT$90). All sandwiches also come […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: By Cheryl Robbins Translation and photos by Rachel Chiou Da Jia (Tachia) is a thriving coastal town, home to most of the island’s bicycle and bicycle component manufacturing industry. However, before Yamaya opened in May last year, local business people often encountered the problem of where to take […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: This attractive four-floor glass structure, located next to The Landis Hotel, has been drawing attention for some time and is now open for business with a full range of health club facilities that are open to members and hotel guests. Indoor facilities include dozens of exercise and weight […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2002: Despite its coffee house label, Viva Cafe is even more outstanding as a reasonably-priced restaurant serving exceptionally-good food. The owner, Mr. Lu Yueh-ping, focuses on cuisine from seven different countries’–Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Hungary, Spain and France. Not only does the menu feature food from these places, but […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: Translated by Ruby Lee Captain Peanut / Oh My God! / I Make Music Captain Peanut’s party starts with the first song of this album, “Boppa Nova,¡¨ which mixes a Bossa tempo and chorus. This album features guitar and saxophone and comes with a little flute music. The […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: Compiled by Li Shya Translated by Cheryl Robbins ” Concealed within tropical rainforest, the ruins and artifacts of the Mayan civilization have created a great sense of awe around the world. Taichung residents and visitors can now share this awe at the Taiwan Museum of Art. Opening on […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Ann Tai Translated by Vanessa Wu Ilustrated by Linda Cheng Recently, as the temperature continues to soar rapidly and the sun seems to be blazing down on us harder than ever, it is crucial that everyone own a pair of comfortable and ,preferably, stylish sunglasses. Sometimes we […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: Translated by Cheryl Robbins After the end of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, the world seems to have suddenly become quiet. Friends no longer meet up in pubs to watch the games and office chatter has returned to the topic of best way to lose weight. Although Brazil’s […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Selena Huang Are you tired of just sleeping in on weekends? Need a change of scenery? Perhaps you should consider a trip to one of Taiwan’s many tourist farms. A return to the basics offers fresh perspectives and makes Monday morning easier to manage. No matter where […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Chen Ni-ang Translated by Elliot Billings Chien-hua Garden, which opened in April of last year, has recently become a popular tourist attraction. On weekends and holidays, this delightful example of landscape horticulture welcomes droves of sightseers from around the country, bringing excitement to this normally-quiet mountain suburb. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By C. Donovan Smith Translated by Vanessa Wu It was only nine in the evening and Murray’s crowd had spilled out of the long, thin bar to colonize the outdoor tables. Balloons and a banner proclaimed “Happy Birthday Sara!” I was tempted to say my name was Sara […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Ku Chi Translated by Vanessa Wu Nan Chuang Township, in northeastern Miaoli county, is a naturally attractive place that has yet to be polluted and ruined due to its isolated location. Nan Chuang then becomes a great retreat for urban people who desire to get away from […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Ku Chi Translated by Vanessa Wu Many locals have heard of Jiu Ai Shin Huan Tea House. All of its interior decorations–from the antique windows and doors with decorative designs to the Chinese tavern-style chairs and the ox-cart wheel hung on the wall–proclaim that this is an […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Ni-Ang Chen Translated by Patricia Li Although this Hakka restaurant uses Western style interior decor, it definitely serves traditional, genuine Hakka cuisine. The chef has been in the dinning business for nearly 20 years and eight years ago decided to devote his culinary talent to dishes from […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Ni-Ang Chen Translated by Patricia Li This warm and friendly restaurant has been serving Hakka cuisine for over four years. An antique drum cart decorates the corner of this otherwise simple place. This restaurant serves traditional dishes such as bamboo and pork ($120 NT). Bite after bite […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Ni-Ang Chen Translated by Patricia Li This is the largest restaurant specializing in Hakka cuisine on the island and serves all-you-can-eat meals. The restaurant held it’s grand opening in early April this year. The interior decor is finished with simple bamboo decoration in the original Hakka style. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Ni-Ang Chen Translated by Patricia Li Mei Nung boasts of having many unique dishes, such as stewed pig intestines along with cabbage and ginger dipped in a finely ground garlic sauce ($120 NT). Furthermore, the Hakka-style cauliflower ($60 NT), slowly simmered in a clay pot, is another […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Uvia Chang Translated by Patricia Li This bright and elegant restaurant is located diagonally across from the Taichung sports arena and Wen Ying Hall. Accentuated by high ceilings, white marble floors and natural light flooding through the windows, this spacious restaurant allows you to dine comfortably, talk […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Uvia Chang Translated by Becky Jeng Are you looking for a peaceful place in the city where you can relax and enjoy a spectacular view? Head for the UFO Revolving Restaurant, on top of the Golden Plaza (Jinsha) building across from the Taichung train station. As Taiwan’s […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Douglas Habecker As part of an ambitious effort to boost Taichung’s dismal public bus services, the city government Department of Transportation has launched a series of free bus routes. This began a few months ago with three routes: Route 1-Taichung Kang Road (weekends/holidays, every 30 minutes between 9 […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Tammy Huang Are you looking for a restaurant where you can eat healthy food? Then, try Tsai Hsiang Ken Organic Restaurant. Each branch uses MOA-certified organic ingredients to create delicious and healthy dishes. Set meals range in price from NT$170 to NT$370 and include fresh juice, salad, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Douglas Habecker This friendly, little open-air eatery is the latest addition to the popular Soho Street and is located between Murray’s and PJ’s establishments. Run by friends Nora Lin and Mickey Yang, Tomato Grilled offers a big selection of about 40 to 50 grilled delicacies, including many […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Douglas Habecker This classy Cantonese restaurant is located on the 15th floor of The Splendor Taichung Hotel–formerly the Grand Formosa–in what used to be the Formosa Garden Chinese Restaurant, which has moved down thte 11th floor. Experienced Cantonese chefs provide a very wide range of choices, which […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Douglas Habecker No doubt one of the most unique hotel food and beverage outlets to come along, Oshare is an outdoor barbecue and beer restaurant located right next to the Howard Prince Hotel parking lot. In the spirit of Taichung’s many open-air barbecue and beer joints, the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: Taking its name from the 1968 Otis Redding hit song, Dock of the Bay has become another kind of hit with Taichung patrons. A creation of well-known music producer/musican “Doc” Niu, this spacious, attractive place includes a first-floor, Cantonese and seafood restaurant seating about 160. For lunch and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2002: By Douglas Habecker After several weeks of renovation, Chung Yo Department Store’s B3-level food court has re-opened with an all-new, improved look and 32 new dining outlets and restaurants. The new lay-out is bright, attractive and much more spacious with long, open table and seating areas (about 750 […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Josephine Lin Translated by Rebecca Jeng How long has it been since you’ve been to Taipei? Thanks to its rapid growth, chances are that it has changed a lot since your last visit. As a result, there’s no better time to head north and experience the excitement […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Priscilla Chen, Douglas Habecker and Karen Schmitt, translated by Sharon Yang and Cheryl Robbins It’s blazing hot, stifling and so humid you feel like you’re coated in sticky sugar. In other words, it’s just another normal summer in Taiwan. The best solution for those in dire need […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Tammy Huang Translated by John Johnson E-Power covers all the bases E-Power is large, attractive addition to Taichung that offers multiple options for those looking to enjoy relax and unwind with some dancing, dining and drinking. This complex, centered around a distinct dome-shaped building behind Tiger City […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 Walking along People’s Square, it is entirely possible that you will see a group of foreigners happily munching on large subs around sidewalk tables. At first, you might think that you are asleep and dreaming you are in a foreign country. Once you realize you are awake and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 As one of Taiwan’s most popular beverages, “pearl milk tea” (jen ju nai cha) has been tried or heard of by most people. But, the taste can differ from one teahouse to another. If you ask people in Taichung where to find the best pearl milk tea, most […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Tammy Huang Translated by Matt Godsey and Annie Chen Recently, Taiwan has been wrapped up in a Korean craze. However, even before this occurred, Taichung was fortunate to have a number of outstanding Korean restaurants. Below is a sampling of places to savor Korean cuisine in Taichung. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Uvia ChangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins In Taichung, there are only a few outstanding European-style restaurants and Euro Choice is one of them. For the past seven years, this restaurant–located on Dung Shing Road down the road from The Landis Hotel–has insisted on serving only the highest-quality, authentic […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Uvia ChangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins fM Restaurant & Bar was recently opened by two young, dynamic Americans, Fred Harold and Mike Armstrong, who also happen to be brothers. This restaurant’s name, fM, comes from the first letter of their first names, the f being lower case to […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Douglas Habecker This Japanese discount store, located on the third floor of Tiger City mall, offers high-quality imported wares for just one price–NT$50. On the left side, as you walk in, are all kinds of beauty and personal care products, mostly for women. Having more of a […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Douglas Habecker With 150 pings of brightly-lit space, this place claims to be the largest pet store in the country. Pet owners will like the wide variety of imported and local pet products for dogs, cats and smaller creatures like birds, rabbits and gerbils. This includes all […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Douglas Habecker Discovery World is Taiwan’s newest theme park and certainly one of its biggest. Connected to the Mala Bay water park, this impressive attraction is about twice as large and follows a similar approach, providing world-class, foreign-designed entertainment facilities almost identical to those found at any […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Douglas Habecker Located in the heart of the Wu Chuan Parkway cafe and restaurant district, this pleasant-feeling, two-floor store sells a big selection of imported household decorative items, plus beauty products. There are lamps, clocks (including various cuckoo clocks), furniture, signs, figurines, vases and other interesting wares. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Douglas Habecker If there seems to be fewer sidewalk vendors around the popular Ching Ming 1st Street “tea street” area recently, it is because they’ve gone underground, quite literally. This new underground shopping area has 1,500 pings of space and over 100 stores, stalls, snack bars and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Tammy Huang Yan Tea changes the preconception of 24-hour teahouses as loud, crowded, unsophisticated places. It is spacious, quiet and tastefully decorated with rustic wood tables and chairs, as well as carved wooden partitions. One of the most unique and popular items on its menu is the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Douglas Habecker Aladdin is Taichung’s first Pakistani restaurant and provides a good selection of authentic, filling Pakistani/Indian dishes for great prices. Friendly owner Muhammad Ali–a native of Lahore, Pakistan–and his staff serve up tasty dishes like the curry chicken, spicy lean beef, chicken cooked in spinach, and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Rachel Chiou Pingtung Chen Family Pig’s Knuckle is the fourth-largest food company in Taiwan. The pig’s knuckle is made using Chinese medicine for a unique flavor. With this eatery’s opening, this specialty dish of the Pingtung area is now available in Taichung. The original owner of this […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Rachel Chiou Jia Nan Garden Restaurant was recently opened by the Eden Foundation, which provides assistance to the disabled and those trying to rebuild their lives after the devastating September 21, 1999 earthquake. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. The management committee of the Productivity […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, JUN. 2002 By Selena Huang /Photos and Information provided by Crystal Records /Translated by Lisa Chiu Most people’s first impression of this group is their white zombie-like make up and flamboyant stage presence. Freddy, one of the band members, says that their outrageous clothing and makeup are representative of their […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: Translated by Cheryl Robbins She had shoulder-length hair and a medium build. To be honest, she wasn’t someone who would stand out in a crowd. If we both hadn’t written the same wrong class time down, we might never have had the chance to talk, and I might […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: By Rachel Chiou and Tammy Huang Translated by Jacques van Wersch The first and strongest impression one gets while strolling Lukang’s streets is that of tranquility. But ask any old-timer about Lukang’s past and you will be told about the hustle and bustle of what once was one […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: By David Greenberg and Stephan Larose/Photos by David Greenberg/Translated by Sharon Yang Whether you’re just passing through or planning to stay awhile, there are plenty of options for budget accommodations in Taichung. For a quiet and convenient place to crash in that won’t bankrupt your wallet, you might […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: By Chen Ni-ang Translated by Jacques van Wersch Hidden away in a quiet alley off Sheng Ping Street, the Red Lion Bar & Restaurant is a place with an ambiance that sets it apart from other Taichung hangouts. This warm and tranquil retreat has only a few tables, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: By Ku Chi Translated by Patricia Li Yi Jung Street is a favorite shopping and eating destination for students attending nearby schools. However, many students describe this area as being like “a noisy night market”, “crowded”, or downright “dirty and disorganized”. I tended to agree with these opinions, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: Da Sheng Street is a quaint lane located across from the Wan Shou Baseball stadium. Here, Cosmo Cafe‘s owners have creatively transformed the first floor adjacent to their company, Biz House/ESL House Language School into an intimate Italian-style restaurant and coffee shop with a leafy garden seating area […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: By Tammy Huang Translated by Cheryl Robbins Looking for an exotic experience, but don’t have the time or money to travel? Fortunately, Taichung has a variety of exotic dining options to enjoy. Below is a sampling of city restaurants that feature dishes from a number of countries and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: By C. Donovan Smith Translated by Sharon Yang When ex-Compass restaurant writer, veteran manager/chef and San Diego native John Chislett announced the opening of his own restaurant, we knew we were in for a treat. Naturally, Bonita Senorita does not disappoint. John opened his eatery on the previously-dead […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: By Chen Ni-ang Translated by Matt Godsey and Annie Chen Feng Zhuan Shark’s Fin Restaurant is housed in a distinctive building that is especially eye-catching at night, when it casts an attractive glow onto the street. The first thing one notices upon stepping into the dining room is […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: This small, classy-looking hotel is ideally located on Taichung Kang Road, just meters from the Chao Ma bus stop and a couple blocks from the freeway interchange. Formerly known as Advance Hotel, this place underwent a complete renovation that has left it with 30 spacious rooms–the Deluxe Single […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: When it comes to pleasant locations to enjoy warm summer days and evenings, it’s hard to beat this new teahouse restaurant, located on the first-floor corner of the E-Power building (formerly Top Mall). At least half of the 200 seats are outside, around umbrella-covered tables on an elevated […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: This cafe bakery represents an all-new direction for the Grand Formosa Taichung Hotel, which runs the entire operation. Located in Sogo’s basement food court, this place features a variety of hot and iced coffees (NT$100-200), including espresso, cappuccino and latte, herbal teas (NT$100) and frappes (NT$120). Coffee is […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: This cozy-looking place, located just down the road from Grand Formosa Hotel near BoGuan (PoKuan) Road, is already drawing customers with its tasty, very reasonably-priced Italian fare. Filling dishes–which all include soup, bread and tea–start with items like the NT$150 olive oil vegetable spaghetti and range up to […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: In an area with an abundance of interesting, high-end, artistic shops, teahouses and coffee shops, there is a surprising lack of good dining options. However, with the addition of Papa’s, Art Street now has an attractive dedicated Western dining destination. Founded by Compass nightlife writer Patrick “Paddy Boy” […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: One of Taichung’s most popular Hakka eateries has moved to a new, improved location right next door to its old site near the intersection of Tung Shing and Gung Yi roads. The rustic-looking, wood-and-brick decor, with Taiwanese antiques, round wooden tables and chairs–many of them also antiques–and other […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: With the economic slowdown continuing, Gu Jie decided to change its business model, to offer the best Taiwanese food at low prices. Its spacious new ShueiShe Road outlet, located near Jinhua North Road, is an interesting showcase for vintage Taiwanese memorabilia, from old store signs to a collection […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: This large, eye-catching restaurant and teahouse looks like it was completely transplanted from some exotic Southeast Asian resort, with its peaked Malay-style roofs, lush tropical garden, fountain, rattan furniture, umbrella-covered tables and imported Malay handicrafts and decorations. There is seating for about 150 in the garden, on the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 2002: Touted as the largest Hakka restaurant in Taiwan, this place is a new, third-floor addition to the massive, already-popular Chao Kang Cheng Gourmet Cuisine Plaza complex which includes Western and Chinese dining and banquet facilities. There are about 40 different traditional Hakka dishes, hailing from the Taichung county […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Translated by Cheryl Robbins and Rachel Chiou Coldplay/Parachutes/EMI Although “Parachutes” was released back in July, 2000, it is still receiving popular and critical acclaim, even winning this year’s Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album. That’s probably because this is a rock album, but not too hard and not […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: By Karen Brownbear Translated by Elliot Billings Produced by Sahara Studio and released on Fredmosa Records in early 2001, Metal Treasure Attic was the first volume in a series devoted to the compilation of tracks by the stalwarts of Taiwan’s metal scene as well as some up-and-coming bands, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Translated by Rachel Chiou Uwe Mertsch is one of Taichung’s few professional foreign artists. He specializes in abstract painting, but is also an accomplished woodworker. Since 1995, he and his wife have traveled to and lived in many countries around the world, lending real meaning to the term […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: There are a number of outdoor stalls on Yi Jung Street, next to the Shui Li Building. Jiu Chou Japanese-style Noodles doesn’t really stand out from the rest in terms of appearance, except that during meal times there is always a crowd lining up in front. Obviously, people […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Cornerstone specializes in sports apparel and currently has branches in Taipei and west-coast America. Inside, the store is decorated with avant garde posters. Among its items are skateboarding, cycling, rollerblading and other sports apparel, including such name brands as First Senate, UGP, Dada, Vexel and Writers Bench. Cornerstone […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Aomei is located in the busy commercial district near Feng Chia University. This restaurant¡¦s management believes in providing customers with an elegant dining experience for reasonable prices. Thus, its clientele includes both students and families. Set meals start at NT$150. Choices include filet mignon in red wine sauce […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: By Cheryl Robbins and Douglas Habecker Translated by Rachel Chiou For decades, Taiwan–Taichung, in particular–has been a popular destination for those hoping to master the Chinese language. Today, Taichung continues to offer a variety of good language-study options to students from around the world. From more relaxed one-on-one […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: By Chen Ni-ang Translated by Matt Godsey and Annie Chen When it comes to learning English, every student in Taiwan has experienced frustration at some point. Three years in junior high school plus three years in high school adds up to six years of study and, if you […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Translated by Sharon Yang Nobel prize winner – dr. eric cornell Dr. Eric Cornell, senior scientist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology in Boulder, Colorado, garnered world attention recently when he won the 2001 Nobel Prize in Physics, together with two collaborators, for the achievement of […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: By Tammy Huang Translated by Cheryl Robbins The weather has warmed up and, with the two-day weekend, there is much more time to get outdoors, exercise and enjoy nature. The Taichung area has many clubs, organizations and businesses that specialize in outdoor recreation. Below is a very small […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: By Ada Lin Translated by Cheryl Robbins Taichung recently gained an interesting nightlife option named La Bodega. This Spanish-style bar is located behind the main branch of Sogo Department Store, at the corner of JungMei (ChungMei) and MingYi streets above the Su Bau Cafe in what used to […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: By Tammy Huang Translated by Patricia Li and Cheryl Robbins Even a few years ago, specially themed restaurants were relatively rare in Taichung. That, however, appears to be rapidly changing as a sometimes-bizarre variety of theme eateries has continued to spring up. Below is just a sampling of […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: By Uvia Chang Translated by Cheryl Robbins Pao Shu Restaurant has specialized in charbroiled dishes for the past 32 years, ever since it opened its doors in 1970. In many barbecue restaurants, there is often some smoke, because of poor ventilation, which greatly detracts from the meal and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Given its name, it is appropriate that this fledgling community center is committed to “opening doors to Taichung”. The brainchild of Ingrid Ploeme (who has given part of her house to the center) and a small group of fellow organizers, the new center aims to help foreigners and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Two award-winning Hollywood filmmakers and a Canadian graphic artist have teamed up with a local Taiwanese travel agent to create the funkiest lounge in Taichung. “The Loft” serves lunch and dinner in the sarong and lantern filled “Nipa Room”, and hosts live acoustic performances in the underground “Red […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Sunny Fitness Center is no newcomer to Taichung, having built up a good reputation over the past year. However, it recently went through a major move and renovation, relocating to a new area of the same building. Head up the elevator and straight past the guard and you’ll […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: This is an extremely cute store, run by a cute couple and filled with cute things. Recently relocating to La Cite fashion outlet mall, Mini Bear House is a cozy establishment that, from the outside, looks like something out of a children’s story book. Inside, it is packed […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Over the hill on TaiJungGang (Taichung Harbour) Road (called JungChi Rd. in Shalu) is a hidden gem of a pub. Located directly across from Providence University it is easy to find if you know it is there, but the jewelry in the window and the larger sign ‘Lucy’s’ […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Lavazza is a well-known name for Italian coffee beans and coffee machines. However, Taichung consumers can now enjoy the city’s first Lavazza cafe, ideally located on Tiger City’s second floor, just above Starbucks. The decor has a nice upscale look to it and patrons can either sit inside […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Anyone looking for a exclusive, high-class dining experience out of the ordinary should check out this almost-hidden restaurant. Housed in a modern, minimalist structure on a quiet lane (opposite Ala Pub), J-Ping only takes diners with advance reservations and has no menu. The brainchild of Mr. Wang, a […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2002: Those who enjoyed Salt & Pepper Restaurant will welcome fM, located in the same attractive place. Run by Taichung bar and restaurant veterans, brothers Mike Armstrong and Fred Harold (from whom the “fM” name comes), this place is in able hands and already well on its way to […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Douglas Habecker Translated by Rachel Chiou Although Tiger City has been getting the lion’s–or, rather, tiger’s–share of attention over the past month or two, there’s no forgetting the city’s other shopping mall, Taichung Central, which is continuing to draw its own crowds. Located in south Taichung behind […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Douglas Habecker Translated by Rachel Chiou If you’re a North American, or have lived anywhere on that continent, there’s a good chance that you’ve spent more than your fair share of time in shopping centers and malls. An all-American invention, the shopping center has today revolutionized the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Rachel Chiou Although most of the eateries around Taichung First High School are somewhat small, some of them are run by outstanding cooks. Yi Chung Stir Fry is one such place. Its owner has cooked for the former president of Taiwan and already has another restaurant, called […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Little Ann During the last cold spell, my friend and I were looking for a place to warm up. Walking along Yi Shu Jie, otherwise known as Art Street, there were a number of teahouses and coffee shops to choose from. For some reason, we decided to […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: by Courtney Donovan Smith Translated by Sharon Yang In March, thriving artist collective ArtseeHouse will move its show north to the HuaShan Artist Community in Taipei. Featuring musical performances, paintings, photography, calligraphy and more by local and foreign artists, it will provide an exciting cross-section of forms, styles […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Chen Ni-Ang Translated by Matt Godsey and Annie Chen Beyond a doubt, Da Ken is one of the most important recreational and tourist areas in Taichung. This scenic rural area, with its rolling forested hills and hiking trails, has become a regular destination for many residents and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Courtney Donovan Smith Translated by Rachel Chiou When entering the large free-standing structure on Shiang Shang Rd. (near Ying Tsai Rd), one of the first things you notice is the uniformed bouncer. While logically one knows that (unlike batman) this guy’s uniform isn’t likely to add any […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: Wu Chang Street, located near China Medical College, is home to a number of teahouses. With so many alluring signs and storefronts, it may be difficult to decide on a place. One of the attractions of Fu Shui An is the row of vanilla bushes outside. The fragrant […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: On New Year’s Eve, I was looking for parking in a lane near JingMing (ChingMing) 1st Street. There was a big party there that night, so parking wasn’t easy to find. During my search, I came across a small teahouse with soft candelight filtering through the windows, illuminating […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Nancy Tu Translated by John Johnson If there has been one constant in the Taichung dining scene over the past decade or two, it is the buffet restaurant. Central Taiwan residents have a well-known fondness for the smorgasbord-style eateries, where one can eat to his or her […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: By Victoria Augustine Translated by Sharon Yang While Taichung may not be the first city that pops into your head when you’re in the mood for seafood, you may change your mind after a meal at the Kreutzer Restaurant. With the seafood delights that owner Chang Yi-ming has […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: Like the Chao Ping store in the basement, U2 is a very large computer/information products store featuring one of the city’s best selections of items. U2 is divided between first and second floors, the first floor having more computer hardware (notebook and desk-top computers, printers, scanners, etc.) and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: The opening of this very big store and the U2 3C outlet (see listing below) is making the E Power Center (ex-Top Mall) a significant competitor for the NOVA information/computer mall next door. With 1,600 pings of space, Chao Ping claims to be the “country’s largest American-style computer […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: For many Taichung residents, Super Stadium should be very easy to find, given the fact that it is located in the ex-M&M/ex-Napoli site in the heart of the Canal District. Physically, this establishment is largely unchanged from its M&M days, with a bar, dining area and basement with […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: E-Power is an unmistakable presence, with its creative architecture and large dome, located just behind Tiger City mall. Scheduled to soft-open on March 8, this large, 3,000-ping complex is the first of the kind on the island, joining four separate establishments–a disco, bar and restaurant, cafe, and members-only […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: This attractive teahouse/restaurant opened recently in the basement of Tiger City mall and the fourth establishment of its kind for Taiwan’s largest tea company, Ten Ren’s Tea. Looking out onto a sunken outdoor square on the mall’s B1-level, Cha for Tea features glass walls, classy-looking seating areas and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: This large, bright new restaurant represents the latest expansion for the decades-old Taichung Steak House and replaces the chain’s nearby Shan Hsi Road outlet, which recently closed. Peitun district residents and others will appreciate the extreme number of buffet-style options that up to 850 diners can enjoy here […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: Fatty’s Italian Restaurant owners Hendrik Frijling and his wife, Jenny, have really outdone themselves with this outstanding new establishment, located a couple doors down from Fatty’s. Customers will be impressed with the very classy decor on two floors, which includes an attractive U-shaped bar, Balinese furniture, wooden-paneled floors […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: Cafe Blu and The Blu champagne bar are respectively located on the first and second floors of the striking glass tube on Tiger City mall’s outdoor plaza. Both establishments take an upscale minimalist approach to decor, with white leather seats, plenty of glass and chrome, and blue lighting […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: The Spice Shop Indian restaurant’s owner, Fred, has decided to try his hand at something different and has added Cacti (formerly Borderland) Restaurant to his ventures. Located next to Papa Mio Italian Restaurant, this attractive, two-floor place has an American Southwestern feel to it, with white stucco, adobe-like […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: Li Chia’s decor features hard wood paneling, Baroque-style lamps, Impressionist paintings and a grand piano. Soft background music and cream-colored seats complete the luxurious atmosphere. The food is prepared tableside by a chef hired from Hong Kong. Set meals start at NT$350, with the specialty being steak dishes. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002: Translated by Elliot Billings and Cheryl Robbins Creed/Weathered/Wind-up Records Creed’s long-anticipated third album recently hit the stands and stays true to its hard-core rock foundations with an increased intensity. From start to finish, listeners will enjoy a range of styles, from hard pounding rock licks at the beginning […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 Translated by Sharon Yang With Taiwan’s focus on internationalization, including its recent entry into the WTO, foreigners are arriving and staying on the island in larger numbers. In addition, an increasing percentage of the local population has spent some time abroad for work and study, and has been […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 For Men: DO1. Write a love letter (or, if a “tekkie”, send a love e-mail or text message to your Valentine’s cell phone).2. Give something to your Valentine in the morning that she can wear or carry throughout the day.3. When meeting your Valentine for a romantic dinner, make an effort […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 With a day I would rather forget and put behind me, I was in the mood for a drink. Although it was a Wednesday and I had to rise early the next morning, I was not to be stopped in my quest. I justified it as just a […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 The owner of Chi Lou Gung Yu, Ah P, describes this mini coffee shop as an idea workshop. This unique place is located in the Yang Guang Lu Jun community off of Da Sheng Street, across from the Taichung Wan Shou Baseball Stadium. To enter, you will have […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 By Chen Ni-ang and Uvia Chang Translated by Estelle Leejyu In spite of the economic recession, many employers still plan on holding a Year-End Banquet, or “Welcome the Spring” Banquet, to reward employees who have been working hard throughout the past year. The occasion is not only one […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 By Uvia Chang Translated by John Johnson The trend for restaurants in the 21st century is healthy, including organic food and dishes suitable for vegans. However, it is not necessary to be a strict vegetarian or vegan to enjoy all this. It could be that you are simply […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 By Tammy Huang Translated by Elliot Bilings Looking for an oasis outside of the bustling city? Take Taichung Kang Road up the hill in the direction of Wu Chi. After passing Tunghai University, turn right onto Dung Da (Tung Ta) Road. Then, follow Du Huei Yuan (Tu Hui Yuan) […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 1.Where is the best place to meet people of the opposite sex? On an airplane or while traveling.-Sophie Jow (female, no age or occupation given) At a language school, because I think it is the best and safest place to meet men.-Marguerite Chen (female, age 18, student) In […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 By Little Ann Jing Hsin Lou is decorated in an ancient Chinese style, with an atmosphere that is both simple and elegant. There is also a feeling of seclusion, making it a good choice for those times when the pressures of the world seem too large to bear. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 By Yian Chi Among the cafeterias surrounding Feng Chia University, Jia Yo Jan is one of the smallest, but also one of the most well-known. Many students and families come here because it is fast, convenient and there is a large selection of dishes. Most of the food […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 With the exception of its tiled roof, this teahouse is almost completely covered by trees, giving a feeling of seclusion from the busy world outside. Wu Wei Tsao Tang covers an area of about 300 pings, making it one of the larger teahouses in town. Inside, stroll along […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 In a worldwide first, this international chain of cinema complexes has simultaneously opened at two locations, inside of Taichung’s two malls. Both complexes seat a total of about 3,000, with eight screens in Tiger City and 10 in Taichung Central. High-quality seating and sound–together with an all-American snack […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 J-lin Dental Clinic is working hard to change people’s image of a dental office. The examination chairs are made of soft leather. In front of each station is a large photograph of a scenic, natural spot, meant to put the patient at ease. The waiting area features a […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 This popular French hypermarket chain has opened its latest outlet on the basement levels of the new Taichung Central Mall (see Nov. “What’s New”). Like all Geant branches, this one features the usual, enormous selection of food products, clothing, electronics, appliances and other items. In particular, this Geant […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 Making the biggest splash that Taichung has seen in a while, this swanky-looking shopping and entertainment mall is an attractive addition to the city’s booming seventh redevelopment zone and is already a massive hit with residents. Tiger City takes more of American approach to shopping centers, with independent […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 At the bottom end of the Wu Chiuan parkway is Taichung’s newest addition to the pub scene. Entering through the classy front entrance, one walks into a bustling and active atmosphere populated by men and women in after-work party mode. The attractive brick interior and high ceilings provide […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 Jointly managed by Laurent Rubio, Su Bao owner Russell and their friend Benny, La Bodega (which means “wine cellar” in Spanish) is a cozy, friendly place offering a variety of drinks, plus some light food items. San Miguel, Corona, Asahi and a medium draft are all NT$100. Pastis […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 Classic hang-out PJ’s Cafe has moved to classy new digs on the same pedestrian street (named ‘Soho’ by the developers) as the newly-opened Bonita Senorita, just off of Da Ye Road near Ching Cheng Road. This third incarnation of PJ’s places more emphasis on the ‘cafe’ part of […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 The spiritual home of the Central Taiwan Racing Association, this car-racing themed restaurant is a shrine to powerful engines and speed. The decor is sleek and modern and evokes the sleek beauty of high-powered sports cars. For decorations, actual F1 and other motor-racing parts make up a kind […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 The Evergreen Laurel Hotel’s first-floor Western buffet restaurant, Cafe Laurel, recently re-opened after an impressive renovation that, among other things, has made it into an Italian eatery. Diners will enjoy the fact that an Italian dinner buffet is now offered (6-9 pm, NT$690+10%), featuring a pasta bar, salads, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2002 Red Lion is a great place to go after work to let off some steam. Decorated in a comfortable Japanese style, the restaurant is the personal vision of its owner, Mr. Chen. He cooks all of the food himself and, although the dishes are not as esthetically pleasing […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 By Tammy Huang and Cheryl RobbinsTranslated by John Johnson and Sharon Yang Rose Records The non-stop music played at this store makes you feel as if you are on a dance floor. The store stocks a variety of Western music, including as hip-hop, techno, metal and rock. It […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 This boutique is filled with unique items mostly imported from Europe, such as European antique-style furniture, cabinets, kitchenware and eating utensils. Tian Lai Hsing Yang Hang also sells aromatherapy candles and herbal teas, all made with natural ingredients. The manager says that this store is not just about […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 The US deer-crossing road sign outside clearly marks David’s Deer Pub, which is situated amidst the cluster of watering holes behind China Medical College Hospital. The name, incidentally, was inspired by the fact that many neighbors are also named after animals–Frog II, Whale Pub and so on. Customers […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 Written by ‘Paddyboy’ Patrick Coulter Translated by Sharon Yang I was sitting at The Riverside inhaling a fish and chip platter while people continued talking about some Seattle band that played at the Space Needle party the night before. The bar was filling up and another big night […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 This very large, swanky-looking tea house/restaurant is located on the corner of the five-way Hankou/Hsitun intersection in a building previously used by Miami Pub and, later, Van Gogh Cafe. Maya Rize, which runs another large coffee-and-tea near the Hankou/Chungteh intersection, has dedicated this place to tea-drinking. Literally dozens […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 Keng Chi Tea Village has just opened a branch on Shiang Shang Road near Dung Shing Road. This Chinese-style teahouse uses lots of dark wood in its decor. The specialty here is the Fragrant Lotus Tea (NT$180/pot), made from fresh lotus brought in from southern Taiwan. Food is […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 The owners of this cafe, former employees of Starbucks, wanted to open a small friendly cafe where people could enjoy good conversation, good coffee and good bagels. The bagels, as suggested by the name, are imported fresh from New York and come in onion, cinnamon, blueberry, egg and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 Translated by Vicky Huang and Sharon Yang Over the past decade, Jason Hu has become a well-known and widely-respected public figure in Taiwan as he has served his country in a variety of positions, including foreign minister, ROC representative to the United States, and director of the Government […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2002 By Tammy Huang Translated by Dan Duckworth If you’re looking for an elegant atmosphere, great food and reasonable prices, People Cafe offers one of Taichung’s best options. The restaurant’s innovative architecture often leaves customers talking more about the building than the cuisine. Gray brick walls with a tower […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By Rachel Chiou When most of us think about Christmas, we remember that it is not only a time of receiving presents, but of giving them as well. In Central Taiwan, there is no shortage of charitable organizations which are working hard to provide for those with variety […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: Biung, a member of the Bunun aboriginal tribe and up-and-coming musician/singer/songwriter, grew up in a small village in the mountains of Taitung, where music played an important part in everyday life. These roots were reflected on his first album, “The Hunter”, which he produced during his last year […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By: Cheryl Robbins EverSound/Tidings of Joy/Jingo This is a collection of 15 Christmas carols arranged by 11 musicians. Though most of the Christmas carols sound familiar, original musical and sometimes vocal elements have been added to create new holiday compositions. Selections include Christmas favorites like “The Little Drummer […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By Annie Liou, Karl Smith, Rachel Chiou and Sharon YangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins and Rachel ChiouPhotos by Annie Liou KTV, more commonly-known as karaoke, is a huge hit in Taiwan, as singing in front of friends, family and, sometimes, complete strangers seems to be quite addicting. Perhaps the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By Michael Blayden Translated by Sharon Yang Brothers Joe and Vincent Wu established the New York Pub on Valentines Day (February 14), 1997. These two young men were kicking around an idea for a new kind of bar and realized that Changhwa City was in desperate need of […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: If you have ever visited Eslite Books’ Chung Yo branch, you will have come across this coffee shop. In fact, many people refer to it as the Eslite Coffee Shop, but its real name is Java Caravali Coffee. Tall, metal chairs are neatly arranged around a rectangular-shaped bar. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: Green Tea House is located along a canal amidst a number of antique and art dealers. Recently, several restaurants, including Sai Na Fen Ning, have opened in this area. Although this restaurant already served European-style afternoon tea, its owner wanted to offer central Taiwan residents a different kind […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By Tammy Huang The Brownie Bakery Restaurant features low-fat, low-sodium cakes and mousse (in flavors such as lemon, chocolate, sesame and cream) (NT$26 with discount). The bakery section also sells bread, cakes and cookies. Prices for set meals range from NT$380 to NT$480. Choices include steak, chicken filet, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By Tammy Huang The bread selection at FM Station is very impressive. One of its unique and newest items is its “mochi” (rice paste) bread (NT$20). There are also more traditional selections such as red bean bread, Danish pastries, tuna burgers and all-grain buns. Typical menu items include […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By Tammy Huang Throughout its long history of over 50 years, My Store has always had a steady stream of customers, who come from far and wide to shop here. The most popular items are the tuna fish sandwich (NT$25) and the potato salad sandwich (NT$22). Everything served […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By Tammy Huang The Sugar and Spice bakery is well known for its diverse selection of bread, desserts and meals. Mouth-watering items include the Caesar Salad (NT$230) and the Chicken Lasagna (NT$150). Among the many bread choices, such as rye, French and wheat, is the garlic bread (NT$30). […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: By: Uvia Chang Translated by Annie Chen and Matt GodseyPhotos by Paul Patterson and provided by Y.Y’s Steak House Y.Y.’s Steak House is located on Cheng Kung Road in the city’s historic Central District amid the ambiance of Taichung’s “old town.” This seems somewhat appropriate, given the fact […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: This new store–the fifth and latest Taichung outlet in a Japanese chain–bears an uncanny resemblance to a TJ Maxx store in America. Inside is a good variety of decent-looking clothing for women, men and children, plus some toys, towels and other home items, sold at very reasonable prices […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: This new store is the first Taichung outlet for a successful island chain of all-natural, organic bakeries. Through glass windows, customers can watch freshly-baked goods being prepared with organic ingredients, sans any sort of chemicals or preservatives. There are all sorts of breads, including loaves, scones (NT$36), muffins […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: Eslite Book Store’s Central District branch, located in the Eslite Lungshing shopping complex near the train station, has moved downstairs from the seventh and eighth floors into a new, 300-ping location. Filled with the store’s usual selection of Chinese and English books, magazines, stationery, CDs and other items, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: This medium-size, 120-ping DIY store provides a pleasant option for those looking for DIY/home-care supplies without wandering through one of Taichung’s mega-stores. There is a good variety of goods, from Bosch power drills to shaving mirrors, from garbage cans to hammers. The store, right next to the Chienhsing/Chungching […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: This very cozy little bar has become a quiet, private place for local and foreign patrons to hang out, drink and socialize without blaring background music. There’s a little bar with some little tables, plus a tiny balcony with more tables upstairs. Drinks include beers, priced between NT$100 […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: This popular pub is no newcomer to Taichung, having already made a name for itself over the past few years at two previous locations near Feng Chia University. Things should get even better with an all-new location in the heart of the popular Canal District, right next door […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: This cozy, elongated tea house isn’t hard to miss, with a location at the corner of Chungteh and Chienhsing roads. A wide range of standard tea house-type items are available for very reasonable prices. There are 16 black and green teas (NT$55-60), about a dozen milk teas (NT$65-70), […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: Although there are already eight branches of this hot pot restaurant in Taipei, this is Pu Ma Pu La’s first branch in Taichung. Pu Ma Pu La is different from most hot pot places, as it is decorated in a modern Japanese style and features jazz background music. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: Large and brightly-lit, Big Fish Sushi features plenty of seating–either at a counter or in private booths–around a large, revolving mechanical sushi bar. As is the case with similar eateries, customers can grab any passing Japanese dish that catches their fancy, with prices determined according to each plate’s […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: This large new restaurant, open for dinner and late into the night, provides diners with the straight-forward choice of an all-you-can-eat hot pot buffet for NT$288 before midnight and NT$228 after. Various frozen meats, fresh vegetables and other hot pot ingredients can be picked out and cooked at […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 2001: Located behind the Mitsukoshi Department Store, at the corner of Ho Nan and Hui Min roads, All Fun has reinvented itself from a French and Italian restaurant into a European-style cafe. This mostly-glass structure is both modern and sophisticated-looking, but don¡Z8¦Z8t let the elegant decor put you off, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 By Tammy Huang Translated by Cheryl Robbins Following the success of the Taipei Hsimenting area redevelopment project, the Taichung City government decided to spend NT$30 million to revamp Chi Kuang Street into a 1,000-meter-long, pedestrian-only area. As the longest pedestrian-only street in the city, this project is expected […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 by Patrick Coulter After fighting through an endless onslaught of rain, I swaggered into Russell’s (Su Bau Cafe) to get some eats. As I was perusing the menu, I felt that something, or someone, was definitely missing from the restaurant. To quench my curiosity, I slipped through the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 Many people visit Florence Coffee Shop out of curiosity about its famous owner, Ku Ling. Most are pleasantly surprised to find that it is decorated not in the avant-garde style of Ku Ling, but in a style reminiscent of an old Italian cafe. There are soft-lit table lamps […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 By Tammy HuangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins Li Ju serves authentic northern Chinese cuisine, including various congees, noodles and side dishes. Some of the congee choices include millet congee and green bean and oatmeal congee. Neatly arranged on glass shelves is an assortment of side dishes, including dried fish […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 By Tammy HuangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins Most Hakka cuisine has strong flavors, especially sour and spicy-hot. The specialty here is Hakka-style pork stir-fry. Vegetables used in Hakka dishes include wintermelon and cabbage. For the chicken dishes, free-range chicken is used. This restaurant has a special sauce that increases […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 By Tammy HuangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins One of Taichung’s biggest concentrations of small eateries can be found on a stretch of Beiping Road between Ta Ya and Chung De roads. There is no better place to find a wide variety of restaurants which may not boast fancy exteriors […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 By Tammy HuangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins People come from near and far to taste Jen Chuan Wei’s noodles. Here, diners can watch skilled cooks at work. The owner makes sure quality ingredients are used in all dishes. Beef noodles, pork rib noodles and vegetable noodles are just some […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 By Tammy HuangTranslated by Cheryl Robbins Business is so good at this eatery that other restaurant and food stall owners try to capitalize on its name. However, the Li family here repeatedly emphasizes that they have not opened any branches elsewhere in Taiwan. So, if you want to […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 By Victoria Augustine A Delicious Taste of Hakka Hospitality If big city life in Taichung is getting you down and you’re longing for the bygone days of small towns, simple pleasures and familiar faces, then Mei Nung Hakka Restaurant might just be the cure. After four years in […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 Undoubtedly one of the most attractive large stores in the city, this establishment is housed in a striking, 700-ping, four-level glass structure and sells only the finest in modern, imported European furniture, fixtures, decorations, dining and table ware and similar products. Pricey brand names include Arzberg, Vitra Design […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 Taichung’s first real shopping center has opened its doors just behind the railroad station and is quite an imposing presence, with 118,500 square meters of space, 17 levels and about 300 shops, boutiques, cafes and other establishments. The US-designed mall includes large anchor businesses World Gym Fitness Center […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 Touted as “Taiwan’s largest antique furniture flagship store”, Blue Field’s new, two-floor location is a big improvement over its old one (formerly on Chungming S. Rd.) with about 800 pings of brightly-lit space, over twice the size of the old Chung Ming South Road store. This is nicely […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 The biggest DIY and home products store on the island, Taichung’s second B&Q center is truly massive, with 3,000 pings of space–so big that a floor map is handed out to keep customers from getting lost. This giant British chain store is a handyman’s heaven, with over 30,000 […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 One of the larger discos to open in Taichung for some time, Super Disco is located in the Golden Plaza Department Store building, a few floors beneath the UFO Revolving Restaurant. With 800 pings of space, Super can accomodate up to 2,000 people. The cavernous interior, decorated with […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 Cafe Heaven is situated in the heart of the Taichung Kang Road business district, in a basement location next to Hotel National once occupied by the Blue Bay Disco Pub. The 200-ping establishment has a real club-like feel to it, with a blue-lit bar and interior, small tables […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2001 Veteran Taichung expatriate chef Dereke Bruce has re-opened his Chung Yo Department Store branch as an Australian/New Zealand eatery, with a little Middle Eastern cuisine thrown in for good measure. Among the many choices are “The Fire House” roasted meat/seafood dishes, prepared in Taichung’s only clay, wood-burning oven. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001 Douglas Habecker Like most cities around the world, Taichung is full of pleasant secrets–perhaps a wonderful restaurant or quaint little shop–waiting to be discovered on some back alley. However, it is also home to at least one very large hidden gem that has remained invisible to many residents […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: by Cheryl Robbins The level of enjoyment of Chinese tea is said to depend upon a number of factors such as the type of tea, the quality of the water used to brew the tea, the skill of the person brewing the tea, the surroundings, the people you […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By: Patrick’ paddyboy’ So there we were, sitting at the roadside talking anything but shop. Suddenly, a voice popped into my head and said, “Go to Ala maaaan!” Not one to mess with fate, I rallied the troops and we began our trek. Probably due to our anticipation, […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: My Coffee is located next to the tree-lined path leading from Taichung Kang Road to the National Museum of Natural Science. This museum is a favorite weekend destination for Taichung residents, so this is how many people stumble across My Coffee. There is outdoor seating available or enjoy […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: “The Godfather”, released in 1972, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, and starring Marlon Brando and Al Pacino was a graphically violent but artistic portrayal of the Corleones, a powerful Mafia family. This film is a classic that will probably forever top the favorite movie list of most film […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By Chen Yi-ru Bookstores are places to gain information, stimulate the imagination and escape from the pressures of life. Taichung possesses a variety of bookstores, from the general to the specific. Below is a small sampling of bookstores waiting to be explored. ESLITE BOOKS (CHUNG YO BRANCH) Eslite […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By Tammy Huang Even before the doors open, customers line up to watch the sushi masters put together various kinds of sushi using tofu or seaweed. Average price per sushi plate is NT$60 to NT$100 with hand rolls costing NT$30 to NT$50 each. Although the sushi made here […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By Tammy Huang Although this is a sushi take-out and delivery chain, But, the Han Kou Road outlet also has seating for those who want to eat in. This chain was started to provide sushi that is delicious, nutritious and convenient. Fifteen low-fat, low-calorie choices are available that […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By Tammy Huang This is the largest sushi chain in Taichung. All of its branches look and feel like modern sushi bars in Japan. The most popular sushi dishes are those made with tuna and salmon. These two kinds of fish are flown in fresh from Canada. At […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By Tammy Huang This is a cozy sushi bar that has been in business for 30 years. Most of the old customers don’t bother to order from the menu, instead asking for “custom-made” sushi. But, first timers who are not so bold won’t be disappointed with any of […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By Tammy Huang The specialty here is black sticky rice sushi. This rice not only tastes good but is also said to have health benefits. Sushi prices range from NT$20 to NT$140. There are also Japanese-style set meals for NT$90 to NT$280. From 2:30pm-4:30pm Monday to Friday everything […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: Located in a lane behind SOGO II Department Store, this American-style pub is done up in wood. Movie posters adorn the walls. Behind the bar are Indian carvings and totems. Jack-o-lanterns and Tunghai University pennants line both sides of the bar. If you look up, hanging from the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: Located in the Top Mall building opposite Peoples’ Square, Power Center takes the place of former occupant Homart, which went out of business several months ago. Joining the likes of NOVA and eTower computer shopping centers, Power Center features about a dozen shops selling computers and related products […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: From the outside, The Way of Health does not look like an ordinary health food store. It has a small garden area in front and bamboo running along the side. Inside is dark-wood decor and subdued lighting. The Way of Health was founded on the concepts of four […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: The American Hush Puppies shoe company has opened its first stand-alone store in Taichung, conveniently located opposite the Tatun Road Carrefour in what used to be San Francisco Best Coffee. Unmistakable with its adorable bassett hound mascot/trademark, Hush Puppies offers a variety of high-quality leather men’s and women’s […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: This wonderfully exotic and attractive store features a very wide range of great imported household decorations, furniture and other items from all over the world, particulary Southeast Asia. On two floors of space, there are plenty of neat-looking clothes, candles, exotic decorations, furniture, incense, table settings, containers and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: Brunch Caffe Italiano is the ideal place to relax. It’s not uncommon for customers to stay for two hours or more enjoying the quiet leisurely atmosphere. It gets a little noisier when school gets out as some students come here for an afternoon snack and wait for their […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: This cafe is a quiet home away from home where busy office workers come to relax over lunch. Inside there is soft lighting, large picture windows and rows of bookshelves holding a large selection of magazines. One of Easy Talk’s specialties is its ices which have already become […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By Tammy Huang From the start, this sushi bar has focused on the art of making sushi. Much attention is paid to the rice which is one of the most important ingredients. The result is delicious sushi. Other ingredients are also of the finest quality such as the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: By Carol Wang Translated by Sharon Yang When you step into Papa Mia, you are greeted by the very essence of this Italian restaurant. The kitchen’s delectable aroma of simmering sauces and the friendly smiles of welcoming chefs are the first things that tantalize your senses, giving you […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001 By Douglas Habecker Like most cities around the world, Taichung is full of pleasant secrets–perhaps a wonderful restaurant or quaint little shop–waiting to be discovered on some back alley. However, it is also home to at least one very large hidden gem that has remained invisible to many […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: This was originally an old Japanese-style residence from Taiwan’s early days that belonged to the wealthy Lin family of Wufeng. The owners of this cafe spent more than a year, not only restoring this building to its original state but also adding some human touches. Old and new […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Oct. 2001: Tea Drops/Zhang Wei-liang/Wind This release by Wind Records follows on the heels of a growing fad in Taiwan of combining traditional Chinese instrumental music with the Chinese tea ceremony. (See this month’s “Culture Corner” for details.) Chinese flute master Zhang Wei-liang has put tea to music. He chose […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2001 Cheryl Robbins Long before the first Chinese settlers arrived on these shores, Taiwan was the exclusive domain of the Aborigines. Despite this fact, there is little public knowledge of where these earliest settlers themselves came from. As it turns out, Taiwan’s Aborigines–with nine recognized tribes today–are considered part […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2001 Patrick ‘paddyboy’ The day began with me waking up puzzled as to why my head was ringing so loudly. After a few rings, I picked up the telephone receiver and was invited out for a friendly game of golf. I was on a six-hole golf course a few […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2001 Chen Ni-Ang The Taichung Winery must be somewhere near the top of the list when it comes to little-known tourist attractions in the city. However, this interesting plant, together with its well-planned tourist facilities and museum, make it well-worth a visit. Taichung Winery was originally located in an […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2001 Patrick ‘paddyboy’ It was not so much the heat as it was the humidity. The gang was having a few when all hell broke loose. An argument over who should’ve got the right to host the 2008 Olympics ensued and I was taking the brunt of the criticism. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2001 Cheryl Robbins With the coming of summer, thoughts turn toward ocean breezes, sandy beaches and getting away from it all, making this a good time to explore the coastal areas around Taichung. A one- or two- hour drive will take you to some scenic and fun spots, most […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2001 Rachel Chiou Taichung residents no doubt have noticed the many renewal projects that are taking place or that have been completed. For example, last month’s cover story described the many recent and ongoing improvements to the downtown district. In that area, Electronics Street has been converted into a […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jul. 2001 Tammy Huang and Annie Huang Many people live very busy, hectic lives. The stress level can seem almost unbearable. So, what is one of the best ways to get rid of stress? Exercise. Taichung’s health clubs offer a variety of ways to do just that, from exercise equipment […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jul. 2001 Douglas Habecker Once upon a time, not very long ago, there was no Taichung Kang Road commercial district, no redevelopment zones, no thriving Peitun, Nantun or Hsitun districts and certainly no ‘commercial circles’ around Chung Yo, Sogo or Mitsukoshi department stores, which did not exist. Taichung and all […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jul. 2001 Victoria Augustine When it comes to Italian eateries in Taichung these days, they’re a dime a dozen. It seems as if there are new Italian offerings popping up every day. But if you’re in the market for a restaurant that was serving up Italian delectables well before it […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jun. 2001 Annie Liou In 1927, master potter Lin Chiang-sung arrived in the small town of Shui-li in Nantou. He found this area to be a good place to practice his art, as there was plenty of quality clay and timber for heating the kilns. He built a workshop and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jun. 2001 Douglas Habecker If there’s anything uniquely-appealing about Taichung, it is the fact that there are constantly new, fascinating and attractive corners of the city that are developing and waiting to be discovered. No where is that more true than Nantun district which has grown so fast that the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Apr. 2001 Rachel Chiou This is a teahouse that you will easily find yourself going to again and again. Passing by, you can’t help but notice it, due to its attractive ancient style. Inside, the decor is of solid wood, with beautiful paintings covering the walls. The sunlight shining in […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2001 Annie Liou This restaurant immediately piqued my curiosity, not only because it is decorated in the style of old Shanghai but also because of the horses. That’s right, real horses, next to the restaurant’s entrance. One of the owners, Ms. Su, has a ranch in Houli, out in […] More
by Cheryl Robins Photo: Henry Westheim © 2001 Matthew Lien is a well-known environmental activist, composer, musician and vocalist from the Yukon, Canada. Gaining acclaim for albums like “Bleeding Wolves”, “Caribou Commons”, “Voyage to Paradise” and “Touching the Earth”, his musical compositions often include sounds recorded in nature or songs from the Aborigine tribes of […] More
The word ‘spa’ comes from the Latin phrase,’Solus Par Aqua’, which means “healing by water”. Spa also originates from Spau, a small town in the southern part of Belgium, famous in the 16th century for its natural, healing hot springs. Today, spas are making a comeback, providing water therapy facilities. Water therapy does not only […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2001 Douglas Habecker Where should I take her (or him) for Valentine’s Day? That is a question that many people will no doubt be asking themselves as they try to come up with a good date idea for that romantic occasion. Taichung has no shortage of pleasant restaurants so […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb. 2001 Douglas Habecker As Hsiao Hsiu-lan, co-owner of Blue Cave Restaurant tells it, she and her husband were vacationing on the Italian island of Capri and its famous blue caverns years ago when they were inspired to recreate the beauty they saw and experienced back home to Taichung. As […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Jan. 2001 Courtney Donovan Smith While researching a recent ‘Into the Spirits’, I got into a conversation with some Koreans. The topic drifted to the Korean community in town, and naturally where to eat. Their opinion was unanimous; the only decent Korean restaurant in town was Da Han. A Canadian […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Nov. 2000 Victoria Augustine Remember the images you had of traditional Taiwan before you actually arrived here? Farmers in straw hats toiling in the fields from dawn to dusk; miles upon miles of rice paddies with long green grasses waving in the wind; barefooted children running through the alleys, laughing […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2000 Douglas Habecker Needless to say, it isn’t every day that a very large book store literally sails into town. However, that will be the case on September 6, when the MV Doulos docks at Taichung Port for a one-month visit. The port call by one of the world’s […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2000 John Chislett When I first visited Fred’s Spice Shop in 1995, it was in a back alley down below the Art museum. It wasn’t a fantastic looking place, but people loved it because it was the first foreign food that wasn’t “western” in Taichung. The food was authentic […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Sep. 2000 Cheryl Robbins A new special exhibit taking place at the National Museum of Natural Science sets out to make you rethink your concepts about dinosaurs. Five hundred and eighty-three objects, including rare and valuable fossils, reproductions and reconstructed models and skeletons, are used to tackle some of the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Aug. 2000 Courtney Donovan Smith When the woman who, only minutes before, was brandishing a huge dildo and cracking a whip tells me that she has ‘performed for children all over Canada and America’; should I have been alarmed? When the performer in question is Shannon McNab, of course not. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 2000 Courtney Donovan Smith In Makung I was fortunate to meet one of the most interesting and exciting sculptors in Taiwan, Penghu native Chen Fu Chi. Visiting his workshop is a startling experience. His work has extreme range both technically and emotionally. Some of his more famous works are […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 2000 Douglas Habecker Although Taichung is well-known around the island for its label of Taiwan’s “culture city”, that moniker has taken a beating in recent years as residents and outsiders have frequently joked that it is anything but cultural. However, there are reasons to hope that Taichung will once […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, July, 2000: by patrick ‘paddyboy’ coulter From the street the High Wave disco doesn’t look like much, a simple sign and some young men loitering around a betelnut stand placed by the entrance. The tacky pun in the name also suggested this wasn’t going to be the highest class place […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 2000 By John Chislett Kathy Cheng has been taking Taiwanese all over the world for quite some time. In her travels as a tour guide, she’s acquired a taste for some of the better foods from overseas. Now, however, instead of bringing Taiwanese to foreign islands, she’s bringing the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 2000: Step off the propeller plane at the Makung airport and the sense of space is overwhelming. Partly it is the low flat grassy landscape, unencumbered with the natural and unnatural obstructions that crowd Taiwan proper. No mountains loom in the distance, no factories, no skyscrapers. But mostly it […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, June 2000. Little Europe? That was the response of some readers when this magazine decided to attach the new label to a popular swathe of shops, cafes and restaurants just off of Taichung Harbor Road. Although this district may bear scant resemblance to a European setting for someone who has […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May 2000. Former Tiananmen Square student leader and Chinese dissident Wu’er Kaixi, who remains on China’s “most wanted” list, once again was welcomed by the Taichung American Chamber of Commerce as guest speaker at its monthly dinner meeting on April 25. During his informative and enjoyable presentation–on the state of […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May 2000. As with most foreigners in Taiwan, one of the few complaints I have is with the traffic and the pollution. In what has become a developed country, the complete lack of facilities here for the pedestrian or the bicyclist is stunning. In the race for development, cities around the island have […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May 2000. This is an unusual “Hole in the Wall” article because, instead of a small eatery, I’m reviewing a food stand. The first time I tried the food at this place occurred when a friend brought it to my house. I was told that it was somewhere on Ching […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, April 2000. Almost anyone who’s traveled through Thailand, Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries has become very familiar with, and perhaps fond of, the typical restaurant/pub hang-outs that have proliferated wherever there are foreign visitors. We’re talking here about wooden, open-air dining areas and bars, bordered by tropical plants and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, April 2000. The National Museum of Natural Science is currently the temporary home of an extraordinary collection of more than 200 objects from ancient Egypt, on loan from the Roemer-und-Pelizaeus Museum in Germany. This exhibition marks the first time that such objects have been available for public viewing in Taiwan, […] More
by Cheryl Robbins From our archives, Compass Magazine, March 2000. In Taiwan, folk medicine incorporates beliefs of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism and shamanism in diagnosing and treating illnesses. Unlike conventional (Western) and traditional Chinese medicine, folk medicine does not take into account physical symptoms. Instead, illness is thought to be due to spiritual or supernatural influences. […] More
by Nancy Miller From our archives, Compass Magazine, March 2000. According to Tom and Susan Bailey, it is the people of Taichung that make this city such a great place to live. Perhaps that is why the two have called this city their home for 13 years now. “There is a genuine warmth in the […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, MARCH 2000. Night after the night, they can be seen walking in one direction or another, up and down Taichung Harbor Road. Foreigners, Chinese, residents and visitors, all strolling among the swanky hotels, garish neon signs, department stores, shops, restaurants and pubs of the city’s busiest stretch of commercial activity, […] More
By Barbara Healy From our archives, Compass Magazine, MARCH 2000. From the street it looked civilized and clean. Brand new furniture decorated the waiting room, well groomed staff greeted patients. But, upon arrival at the dentist’s chair, some finer details came into focus. Rusting utensils, cob webs swaying from the light, and a dentist who […] More
by John Chislett From our archives, Compass Magazine, Feb 2000. When I first moved to Taichung from Taipei, I noticed that there didn’t seem to be quite the diversity of Chinese food that was available in Taipei. I found some places that had the old standards (“Gung Bao Ji Ding”, “Mao Pu Do Fu”), but […] More
By Barbara Healy From our archives, Compass Magazine, January 2000. Not many people in this world dare to defy the boundaries of physics the way Narinder Singh does. Singh, a native of India, holds the Guinness World Record for pulling the heaviest vehicle — with his teeth. It all began when Singh — now a […] More
by Cheryl Robbins From our archives, Compass Magazine, January 2000. One of the world’s most admired women, Dr. Jane Goodall, recently visited Taichung’s National Museum of Natural Science to deliver a message which she entitled “Reasons for Hope.” Goodall gave her audience four reasons for having in hope: the human brain, the resilience of nature […] More
By Barbara Healy From our archives, Compass Magazine, JANUARY 2000. It doesn’t take Indiana Jones or any other seasoned sleuth to discover one of Taichung’s most intriguing, unburied treasures. Shoppers usually get clues to this destination by word of mouth. It’s pretty easy to find from there as it’s hidden only by the multitude of […] More
Euro Choice by Douglas Habecker From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec 1999 Despite Taichung’s fairly large and diverse dining scene, it can still be hard to find a restaurant which provides fine, authentic dining in a classy, intimate setting, with the emphasis on intimate. Since 1994, Euro Choice restaurant has been doing just that by […] More
By Barbara Healy From our archives, Compass Magazine, November 1999. Brian Lahan, the new Director for Taichung’s Lincoln American School, is leading a life that most would admire and even be envious of. With a genuine care about the education of children and a curiosity and respect for various cultures of the world, Lahan has […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, November 1999. In an idealized existence, a people and country which had just suffered through some natural calamity could simply continue on with life from the point at which it was interrupted. Soon, everything would return to normal and everyone would move forward towards bigger and better things for themselves. […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, November 1999. For decades, Taichung has been a center Chinese-language training in Taiwan. With a variety of excellent programs, each with unique characteristics, students have plenty of options. In this month’s About Town, Aaron Bleasdale examines the latest addition to the city’s offerings. Between the rigors of hectic teaching schedules, […] More
By Douglas Habecker From our archives, Compass Magazine, October 1999. The small island of Taiwan was created long ago by the collision between the earth’s Eurasion and Philippine Sea plates, which pushed upwards as they came together. As the people of central Taiwan were so terribly reminded of at 1:47 a.m. on September 21, the […] More
By Mia Shanley From our archives, Compass Magazine, September 1999. One of the most fascinating things about the local Taiwanese economy is that its foundations are cemented in thousands of different mom-and-pop shops.Anyone living on this island for some time knows that one of the best things about living in a Taiwan city is the […] More
By Cheryl Robbins & Dr. Yen Hsin-fu From our archives, Compass Magazine, September 1999. The long-awaited opening of the Botanical Garden of the National Museum of Natural Science took place on July 23, 1999 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and speeches by such dignitaries as the Minister of Education Yang Chau-hsiang, Taichung Mayor Chang Wen-ying […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, AUGUST 1999. It was roughly three years ago that chefs/partners Ada Yen and J.P. Wang opened their first venture, Papa Mia Italian Restaurant. At the time, it was one of just a few Italian restaurants in the city and helped popularize the cuisine–with a pleasant, cozy atmosphere and a great […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, August 1999. Taichung is a long, long way from Belgrade, as Boris Djordjevic discovered when he first arrived on the island about four years ago. Little could he know that he would end up not only running his own Internet business solutions consultancy but also becoming one of the island’s […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 1999. The Greater Taichung Area is one of the leading world centers for shoe-making technology. In the years since 1980, the area has become the world’s main supplier of footwear. Taiwan exported 0.8 billion pairs of shoes worth US$3.6 billion in 1986, the highest total in the history of […] More
By Mark Hammons From our archives, Compass Magazine, JULY 1999 As my companion and I entered Little Italy on a recent Sunday evening, we were greeted by the aroma of basil, oregano and rosemary wafting from the kitchen in the back. Waitresses moved gracefully about, keeping time with the lively Italian folk music, carrying bottles […] More
By Douglas Habecker From our archives, Compass Magazine, July 1999. Mention a World Trade Center and most people will think of the monolithic twin towers in lower Manhattan, or perhaps the sprawling, sand-colored complex in Taipei. However, there are probably a good number of visitors and even residents who do not know about Taichung’s own […] More
By Nick Cupaiuolo From our archives, Compass Magazine, June 1999 Just two hours south of Taichung’s sprawling metropolis lies a beautiful forest area known as Hsitou. Well-known among the locals but often snubbed by the ex-pats, it actually makes for a pleasant excursion. It also offers a glimpse into Taiwan’s efforts in environmental conservation.Provided you […] More
By Douglas Habecker From our archives, Compass Magazine , June 1999 From both the inside and outside, Philippe Cafe and Restaurant oozes high-end luxury and class, resembling an exclusive club or dining establishment. Sit down with a menu, however, and you will be pleasantly surprised to find that prices are anything but high-end. Since its […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, MAY 1999. A fragrant essence of ginseng rises above the other distinct smells in the local market near Taichung’s train station, leading devoted customers and curious newcomers alike to the shop of Mr. Lin Hsing-gang. Upon entering Lin’s tidy, well-stocked and meticulously organized herbal medicine shop, a customer can’t help […] More
By Barbara Healy From our archives, Compass Magazine, MAY. 1999. With a known history of over 2500 years, Chinese herbal medicine is an organized system of medical knowledge containing more than 7000 remedies proven through centuries of use, pharmacological research, and modern clinical experimentation. In both written and unwritten form, this holistic practice has evolved […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, MAY 1999 Anyone who remembers the student protests at Beijing’s Tiananmen Square in 1989 and the subsequent massacre probably also recalls a young student leader named Wu’er Kaixi. During its monthly dinner meeting on March 30, the Taichung American Chamber of Commerce was honored to host Wu’er as its guest […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, May 1999: “Oh, this is so good! This is amazing!” Such exclamations of delight continued to flow throughout a recent evening meal at Grandma’s Thai-Myanmar Restaurant with a group of friends. Those sentiments testify to the outstanding nature of this enjoyable establishment’s Thai-style cuisine. Although Grandma’s has been a long-time […] More
By Barbara Healy From our archives, Compass Magazine, May. 1999: What does a mother of two active school age kids and wife of a development director of a leading shoe company do with her spare time? For Patti Garrido, newly appointed president of International Women’s Association of Taichung (IWAT), the answer is get involved and […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 1998: by Nick Capaiuolo As I walked onto the grounds of the Chai Hsing estate, a pack of hostile dogs approached me. The surly mutts edged uncomfortably near while barking hysterically and their owner did nothing to call them off. Perhaps, as far as he was concerned, I was […] More
From our archives, Compass Magazine, Dec. 1998: By Barbara Healy Don Soloma looks just as comfortable in Taiwan as he would on a patch of his suburban homeland in Melbourne. That comfort hasn’t come without some hard work and lots of vision. Nearly five and a half years ago, he and his Taiwanese wife, Mia, […] More