Monday, 1 December 2014

Tasting Journey #163 - 阿朗基咖啡

阿朗基咖啡
台北市仁愛路四段468號
various locations
02.2758.8812
http://www.aranziaronzo.tw/

 
This place is oozing with aranzi characterics. From wall papers, to seat covers, to coffee mugs, everything is nothing but aranzi.  Food is so-so, and the price range is acceptable.  If you are a fan of aranzi, then definitely come pay a visit.  Else, I think there are many other coffee shops that offer great experience.... well, this is also an unique experience as well.





Tasting Journey #163 - Wine-Derful 旺得福葡萄酒餐廳

Wine-Derful 旺得福葡萄酒餐廳
台北市民生東路三段27號
02.2518.2122
http://www.wine-derful.com/news.html

 
Came here for dinner gathering with a friend who was interested in their wine cellar.
The restaurant is decorated in a very European style, with overhanging vines and trees everywhere.  The waitors/waitresses were all extremely professional, though one thing that sort of set me off was when we had requested for regular tap water (vs bottled sparkling or plain), I sensed a slight unfriendliness from the waitor.  Nonetheless, the rest of the meal was just like the name - wonderful.


One of the server, I'm guessing is the manager, is extremely friendly and professional.  He stopped by many times to pour wine for us, and even gave us a private wine cellar tour after our meal!  The meal was extremely well prepared, but it's also quite pricey.


Apparently, their wine cellar is the only one in Taipei that runs for 24hrs under air conditioning.  At the same time, the ground is filled with rocks where waitors would go in and pour water to maintain its humidity.  The wine cellar contains many cells that are out for rent.  I thought that this would be tailored as a storage space for other restaurants that sell wine... not the case.  Most of the cells are rented by pure wine lovers would enjoy drinking.  The restuarnat business doesn't seem to be florishing, but I'm guessing their main money maker is probably in the cellar rental.  According to the waitor, they will be expanding the cellar area.


They also have private rooms for rent, perfect for small parties of 10.





 
 






Tasting Journey #162 - 阿力的搖滾廚房

阿力的搖滾廚房
台北市松山區富錦街498號
02.2767.0901

 
Spanish cuisine? That's what I was told.
Made with heart, and made with detail.
Flavourful food, well presented.
Where's the rocker aka restaurant name?  The chief is a rocker I think, hahhaa...


Not a cheap place to dine, but price well justified by the service received.
Tiny joint, with full attention from the waitress (most likely the owner).




Tasting Journey #161 - 百八魚場

百八魚場
台北市瑞光路303號1樓
02.2658.3120


A sushi chain spread across the city of Taipei.  Bold and eye-catching sign from the exterior, I thought this is another "high CP" value restaurant.  I was wrong.


All self served, you place your order and you find your own seat.  You grab your own tea and miso, and you soon will receive your order.  Decent portion but mostly rice.  The fish/topping is minimal, thin slice covering just enough of the rice.  Not a fan of this place at all.





Tasting Journey #160 - 維多利亞茶餐廳

維多利亞茶餐廳
台北市萬華區成都路27巷19號
02.2382.6388


I've been here many many here ago by accident.  Thought it was good, but didn't impress me enough to want to remember this place.  Maybe I ordered the wrong thing, or maybe I was only visiting and didn't care much about noting down the restaurants....but I came back here a second time recently, this time recommended by a friend, and had a much more lasting impression.



Located in one of the tiniest alley in 西門町, this place is packed of people wanting to get a dose of HK.  Like any typical HK-style cafe, no fancy interior, sticky table, and a tiny room over jammed with people.  One thing I have to say is that once you are out of HK, you don't get the same service - no yelling, no throwing your cutleries on the table, nor waitress walking away while you are still talking. heheehee...


We ordered a rice in a steamed pot, as well as a spam dish (i love spam).  Milk tea is a must, and you can't go wrong with it.  I really enjoy the steamed pot, as it is extremely hot, and as you pour the sauce over the bowl, the steel pot makes the rice very crusty and you hear the sizzling of the sauce and you smell the richness of the soy sauce flavour.

 



 


Tasting Journey #159 - StayReal Cafe by Gabee

StayReal Cafe by Gabee
台北市敦化南路一段177巷21號
02.2731.8011


Cafe owned by the vocalist from the infamous Taiwanese pop band - May Day, this cafe is located in the hidden alley in the upbeat shopping area of the East District.  From the name, you can tell that the coffee is from a prize-winning cafe, Gabee, located near 中山國中MRT station.

 

The interior decoration isn't anything unique or interesting, but the atmosphere is comfortable.  Lots of interesting little pieces that you wouldn't expect to go together, but it merges so well in the shop.

 
I tried their winter special coffee. Interesting but a bit too sweet for my personal preference.
Not a bad hangout place if you are looking for a place to chill. I did notice there are a lot of Chinese guests visiting the store, probably all because of the celebrity attachment.