Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
New Zealander, KGB (short for Kiwi Gourmet Burger) has developed a near cult follow-
ing among locals and expats alike, both because of its chilled-out atmosphere and amaz-
ing burgers (including a number of vegetarian selections). KGB is located down a tiny al-
ley off the north side of Shida Rd. Take MRT Exit 3.
Madame Jill's Vietnamese Cuisine
VIETNAMESE $$$
(Cuì Xīn Yuènán Cāntīng; 11 Lane 24, Roosevelt Rd, Sec 4; dishes NT$100-160; 11am-2.30pm &
5-9pm; ; Gongguan)
Opened by overseas Chinese fleeing the Vietnamese War in
1974, Madame Jill's was Taipei's first Vietnamese restaurant and is still one of the best.
Though there are a few sops to local tastes (such as the choice of Taiwanese or Viet-
namese spring rolls), flavours are mostly authentic, and with a six-page menu there is
plenty to choose from. Take Exit 4 of Gongguan MRT and turn left on Lane 24.
Din Tai Fung
DUMPLINGS $$$
(Dǐngtàifēng; 2321 8928;
www.dintaifung.com.tw
;
194 Xinyi Rd, Sec 2; dishes NT$90-260;
10am-9pm; ; Dongmen, Exit 5)
Taipei's most celebrated Shanghai-style dumpling shop
(the
New York Times
once called it one of the 10 best restaurants in the world) is now a
worldwide franchise. This is the place that started it all and daily meal-time line-ups at-
test to an enduring popularity. Try the classic
xiǎolóng bāo
(steamed pork dumplings),
done to perfection every time.
There are branches in the Taipei 101 food court, and the SOGO food court under
Zhongxiao-Fuxing MRT.
Chi Fan Shi Tang
TAIWANESE $$$
(Chīfàn Shítáng;
www.sit-fun.com.tw
; 5 Lane 8, Yongkang St; dishes NT$120-180; 11.30am-2pm
& 5-9.30pm; ; Dongmen)
Taking homestyle Taiwanese cooking to a higher level of
freshness and presentation is this popular eatery off Yongkang Park. Chi Fan's dim light-
ing and grey slate-and-wood interior complements the modern approach, though the
boisterous clientele keep the atmosphere down to earth. Try the cold chicken plate, the
superb pumpkin and tofu or the oysters in garlic sauce.
Hui Liu
VEGETARIAN $$$
