Ta Ta Chia Thai Restaurant: Still pleasing taste buds from its new location
By Raymond Chuang
Translated by Angel Pu
33, MeiChuan W Rd, Sec 2, West Dist.
moved to: 14, LiuChuan E Rd, Sec. 4, North Dist.
(04) 2206-8812
Hours: 11:30 am-2:30 pm, 5:30-9:30 pm
Cash only.
No service charge.
For Taichung Thai-food lovers venturing to one of the city's longest-standing Thai eateries, the main challenge may be finding its new location, an even quieter spot not too far from its old address. To get to Ta Ta Chia, head south on XiTun Road, Section 1 towards WuQuan Road and turn west (left) onto MeiChuan West Road. Just a few meters away, you'll see the restaurant, facing a tree-lined green belt.
Upon entering Ta Ta Chia, customers are greeted by the unmistakable aroma of Thai spices. In the center of the room, surrounded by simple, wooden furniture, is a counter decked with a large, framed photograph of a Buddhist monk sitting peacefully with a stately tiger. The walls of the restaurant are adorned with historic photographs and various artworks, including an impressive oil painting by the owner/chef Mr. Lin himself.
During his daughter's summer and winter breaks, Mr. Lin and his family return to Thailand, where he obtains many of the spices and ingredients that go into his authentic dishes. The most popular entree is the Steamed Fish (NT$280), a cilantro-topped, foot-long bass that simmers in a hotplate of tangy, bubbling soup. Another popular dish is the Thai Grilled Beef (NT$200), a mouth-watering plate of zesty, tender beef accompanied by pungent, red onions and hot peppers.
  
Despite its unassuming name, the Thai Beef (NT$180) also turns out to be another piquant serving of ground meat and beef tripe with lettuce wraps. And, of course, perennial Thai favorites like Red or Green Curry Chicken (NT$180) are also available.
The restaurant's affordable prices do nothing to compromise its menu. Here, one can find a wide variety of soups as well as salads, including the Jumping Shrimp, available either cooked or uncooked. Most beverages, besides the imported coconut juice, cost around NT$30.
A gem for those who want to chow down on authentic Thai food without breaking the bank, Ta Ta Chia offers customers the best of both worlds: You can fill your stomach with tantalizing cuisine, but will probably spend less than NT$400 at the end of your meal.
 
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December 2013 
