|
Relaxed Mediterranean-style dining and drinking at Uzo
By Douglas Habecker Translated by Sho Huang
22, JingCheng 5th Street; (04) 2327-3518
Hours：6 pm-12 am Tue-Thu;
6 pm-2 am Fri; 5 pm-2 am Sat; 5 pm-12 am Sun
(non-appetizers available to 9:30 pm weekdays and 10:30 pm Fri/Sat; appetizers available 1 extra hour); closed Mondays
No service charge. Credit cards not accepted. Reservations accepted.
www.uzobar.com
From the very beginning, owner Ramin Fouladpour has carefully clarified that his establishment is a bar, not a restaurant. However, whether he likes it or not, a large percentage of his patrons--delighted with their dining experiences--see his place first and foremost as an eatery.
Obviously, Ramin's not complaining too much. The success of Uzo Mediterranean Bar & Grill since its opening in March, 2006 has kept diners and drinkers alike coming back for more of its unique menu offerings, drinks and laid-back atmosphere. Situated on a quiet residential alley between JingCheng and ZhongMing South roads, the two-floor, white stucco building draws you in with relaxing seating in a tree-shaded outdoor courtyard or the warmly-lit interior. Add to this the service and quality Ramin insists upon and you have a great place.
Despite the Greek-inspired name and logo, Uzo's dining spread is a Mediterranean mix that includes Greek, North African, Middle Eastern, Italian and similar influences. Early on, its generous Chicken Kebab and Falafel wraps (wrapped in Lavash bread) and salads (NT$270) were hits, including two choices from eight sauces like Yogurt Cucumber Garlic, Basil Lemon Mayonnaise, or Chili Hot. Even more popular since its introduction seven months ago are the tasty Chicken or Falafel Greek Gyros (NT$290), wrapped with onions and tomatoes in homemade pita bread and covered in a cool and refreshing yogurt-based tzatziki sauce. Another exotic treat is the Sliced Tomato with Tzatziki (NT$160)--a fresh red tomato, sliced blossom-style, filled with tzatziki, covered with olive oil, and surrounded with spokes of pita bread.
The American owner, his Taiwanese wife Vida and the friendly staff find ways to make even conventional-sounding fare unique, like the pizzas (NT$290), which are all (except the Greek Lite) made with a pesto sauce base. Downright American are the big burgers (NT$290-310) and spicy-yet-very-tangy Buffalo Wings (NT$160). There are also pastas, the Uzo Greek Salad, a good Hummus Dip with Lavash Chips appetizer (NT$135), desserts and much more, including a long list of beers, wines, cocktails and other drinks.
Regardless what you call it－bar or restaurant－Uzo provides a pleasant dining experience that continues to stand apart from the crowd.
|
