Shanghai Royal Congee Location: 162, Hsi Tun Road, Sec. 1 Tel: 2208-1389 Hours: 11am-12 midnight

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This restaurant immediately piqued my curiosity, not only because it is decorated in the style of old Shanghai but also because of the horses. That's right, real horses, next to the restaurant's entrance.

One of the owners, Ms. Su, has a ranch in Houli, out in Taichung County. Previously, she kept an entire menagerie of ostriches, camels and other animals outside the restaurant, but with the coming of winter, she worried that the animals would be exposed to the cold. So, she moved some of them back to the ranch, with the horses and turkeys remaining at the dining establishment.

Inside, the restaurant is full of antiques. Even the motorcycle that is used to deliver food is a classic, imported from the United States. Ms. Su said she did not worry about the restaurant's antiques being damaged, noting that she didn't mind people touching the antiques because everything in the restaurant was for the enjoyment of its customers.

This restaurant features reasonably-priced cuisine from Shanghai and Canton (Guangtung) but there are several Taiwanese dishes as well. Recommended dishes are the various kinds of congee costing NT$50 to NT$120. The congee is slowly simmered, so that the rice is soft and fine. Definitely try the specialties including Shanghai Royal Congee, Bamboo and Abalone Congee and Fish Congee. These dishes are made with high quality ingredients, and a lot of time and effort have been spent in creating their unique taste. But, if congee is not what you crave, there are set meals for NT$69, including Kungpao Chicken and Beef and Vegetables with rice, in addition to seafood specialties starting at NT$100.

Those who eat at the restaurant, versus taking their food out, receive a free pot of hot tea and dessert. It is easy to see why I left Shanghai Royal Congee feeling full and satisfied. After your meal, enjoy looking at the antiques or animals. You will soon understand why this restaurant is so alluring, and well worth a visit.