Tasting Journey #172 - 樂子咖啡

樂子咖啡
Various
臺北市基隆路一段147巷5弄1樓
02.2764.1680
www.thediner.com.tw

This restaurant had a deal on Groupon, so we came to give it a try.  The restaurant is located in the heart of Taipei, in the busiest area of East District near City Hall.

 

Upon arriving the cafe, we immediately saw a patio that has an external heater. Love. Walking in, I noticed that the decoration is made of lots of displays ranging from photos to lego figurines to books.  All fell within one theme - inspirational quotes.  What really stood out for me is "Eat to Live". I'm ure many will resonate with that, lol.

I have to say cafe's like this mostly caters to audiences that only require a comfy place for chit chat, and not so much focus on the food. So I guess there's no surprise nor disappointment there.  The interesting section of the menu is the pancakes. Every dish, whether savoury or sweet, was made on a wrap/pancake-ish type of base.  Some worked well, others, meh…

 

Overall experience isn't bad. I probably wouldn't return for the food, but if I need a last minute place to rest my feet, this would be an option to consider.

Tasting Journey #171 - 一番食堂

一番食堂
臺北市延平北路二段91號
02.2558.8488

 

Izakaya/sushi place that offers hospitality and quality food.

 

 

 I was in the area for some errands and stumbled across this precious find.  The restaurant looks like any other local izakaya that is rich in Japanese flavour.  But what really stood out for me is the hospitality of the server and chief.  They were really chatty, and the chief could not stop sipping on his whiskey.  He noticed that I was taking photos of the dishes, and kept reminding me to take photos of the restaurant exterior. To this date, I am still puzzled by why, but his hospitability definitely stuck around.

We sat at the sushi bar, and the service was quick.  We got all our dishes in no time.  Quality was amazing.  Their 炎稍比目魚was mind blowing. It absolutely melted in my mouth. It was buttery smooth, yet not fatty. Amazing. A definite must try at this place.  Their sashimi bowls are also excellent. Lots of sashimi, and the rice had sprinkles of seaweed sesame, always a delight on rice.

 

Price range is also very affordable for the quality received. I would definitely recommend this place if you are ever in the area.