DANMAWU

(04) 2372-5353
49, WuQuan 5th Street
Hours: 5 pm-1 am
Credit cards accepted. 10% service charge.

It took almost a year for this restaurant's owner, Dr. Huang, and his chef to see their dream become reality at the end of June. Clear glass and wood play big role in this Western-style establishment. Push open the Chinese-style wooden door and, instead of a cashier, there is an arcing counter with red and white stripes where guests can relax and enjoy their meals. A Japanese-style garden also greets visitors a bit further in. The restaurant's brightly-colored Flaming Tomato Salad (NT$100) is chilled and sweet, a treat for the eyes and mouth that shows the chef's attention and effort. The Thousand Thread Chinese Herb (NT$100), with a similar texture to yams, is served with crunchy herbs and fish eggs and requires a very sharp knife to prepare. Salmon Rice Balls (NT$50) is also available, as is the artfully-presented, fresh-tasting Assorted Sashimi dish. Roast Pork Chop (NT$110) is prepared with mint and is not greasy. Set meals (NT$680) come with a total of eight dishes--salad; sashimi; steamed, fried and barbecued side dishes; a main course; soup and dessert. The chef's use of fresh ingredients purchased directly from the market helps make each dish an enjoyable, delicious experience. --By Lishea Zheng, translated by Sho Huang