Varied vegetarian cuisine in Taichung Philippe Cafe 9, GuanQian Road Moved to: 2, Lane 20, WuQuan W. 6th St, West Dist. (04) 2376-8089 Hours: 11:30 am-2:30 pm, 5:30-9:30 pm

The cosmopolitan-looking Philippe Cafe is a dining dream come true for many vegetarians. Not confined to more traditional vegetarian cuisine, the owner imports fresh natural ingredients from Europe, Holland, France, New Zealand and Australia and takes vegetarian cuisine to another level with French-style dishes. The Business Lunch, Chef's Special, Truffles Special and other items are all reasonably priced between NT$380 and NT$980. Start with an appetizer of Mozarella and Tomatoes with Vinegar Dressing, with mild cheese and refreshing vinegar. The Pumpkin Soup is naturally sweet, with fresh cream dribbled over the top to create wonderful sensations for the mouth and eyes. The Chef's Special is Artichoke with Dijon Mustard and Orange Sauce, with unusual ingredients that give your taste buds a pleasant surprise. For the Baked Mushroom with Grated Nuts, a dish of nuts is baked in olive oil with tasty mushrooms, and exudes a woody, appetizing fragrance. Grilled Sliced King Mushroom with Mixed Vegetables is another perfect combination of chewy textures and refined flavors that awakens your appetite. It's hard to imagine a more romantic setting to enjoy vegetarian cuisine.