HOME > CENTRAL TAIWAN > TAICHUNG CITY > NIGHTLIFE >

COMPASS MAGAZINE,November 2004

ADD YOUR RATING & REVIEW | VIEW VISITSR RATINGS & REVIEWS

By Catherine Liu Translated by James O'Donnell

Hi House appeals to someone looking for a place with its own unique style, from the simplest things--like space, tableware and ingredients--down to every button on waiters' clothing. The planning of this Italian music pub is designed to give every person an unusually pleasant feeling, evident from the moment the greeters open the glass doors for you.
As you are welcomed inside and, if necessary, provided with seating, your eyes are immediately drawn to the two-story-high ceiling. The spacious hall comfortably provides seating for about 120 guests. The dining area is screened into nine theater boxes, which create privacy but allow a clear view of entertainment on the big stage, where there are performances after 10 p.m. To the right side of the hall is an extremely large, lavish design on the glass, which harmonizes with the decorative wall lighting.
Chef Edward Liu offers an array of delicious, nicely-presented cuisine. Take Food and Beverage Director Mr. John Lee's recommendation and try the House-made Stracc Pasta with Gorgonzola Cheese (NT$280). This includes tomatoes, spinach, sepia juice and three colors of pasta, which match the fragrant, rich Gorgonzola cheese. The chef's specialty is his Fried Veal Fillet, smothered in a divine truffle paste sauce (NT$750). This meal includes black truffles and delicious mushrooms, cooked to perfection and complementing the fresh, tender, succulent veal fillet. Another good choice is the Hot Chicken Wings (NT$300) and there are many other high-end meals to meet all tastes.
Not surprisingly, Hi House has a vast selection of red and white wines and champagne, plus several beers, all served from a beautiful bar. This includes NT$250 Belgian beer with an alcohol content of about nine percent. Less potent is the three-percent alcohol Belgian fruit beer, popular with the ladies. Other touches include various Cuban and Dominican cigars, offered in a walk-in humidor/display room.
During the 6 to 10 p.m. dining hours, there is very relaxing lounge music. Later, more upbeat music begins with an entertainer performing on stage. For a more memorable experience, make early reservations to sit in your desired area.