A bit of everything pleasing at Gala Heaven

By Winnie Tsai Translated by Winnie Tsai and Ann Lee

(04) 2310-1178
2, JingCheng 3rd St
Hours: Mon-Sun 6 pm-4 am
Credit cards accepted. Valet parking.
10% service charge.
NT$500 minimum charge per person.

Prominently located on busy JingCheng Road in the heart of Taichung's "Little Europe" district, Gala Heaven is restaurant-and-pub combination with striking decor, muscial surprises, delicious food and good bar that many patrons find perfect for relaxing with.

This classy place provides central Taiwan fans of jazz and Latin dance with a fresh option. Every Saturday focuses on Latin dance and includes occasional performances by celebrities. During my visit, we were fortunate to catch a performance by celebrity Fu Wei, whose talent as a host and wonderful voice certainly made our experience even more memorable.

In addition to Saturdays, every other night of the week has been specially themed here. For the moderate price of NT$500 (minimum charge per person) for an evening, you can satisfy both your stomach and ears.

In regards to your appetite, it's never too late to order food at Gala Heaven, as various meals and beverages are provided until 4 a.m. The menu has a wide selection of wonderful dishes, including fried items, Chinese-style stewed dishes, salads, and at least five set meals (NT$380-780), such as a seafood set and French set. There are also over 15 appetizers (NT$100-260) and first timers might want to try their impressive Homemade Fried Rice (NT$280) or Spaghetti (NT$200-300). If you have a hard time choosing from all these selections, check out their LCD TV, which showcases some of the tasty options.

The six-seat bar is located on the second floor and although you can't see the stage from everywhere in Gala, the establishment helps its customers enjoy the music and enjoy live performances wherever they're sitting with well-positioned speakers and flat-screen TVs by the edge of each table. The good drinks menu includes cocktails (NT$260-380), coffees (NT$200-280), teas (herbal, black NT$250), champagne (NT$2,000-7,800), red and white wines (NT$900-9,000), vodka (NT$2,800-3,200), juices and beers (NT$250).

As I was stepping outside with a smile, a passer-by, perhaps intimidated by the building's expensive-looking exterior, seemed hesitant to step inside with her boyfriend. Don't make the same mistake. The next time you pass by Gala Heaven, stop in and savor an evening of good dining and great music without busting your budget.