DIMMER TAPAS

9, Alley 27, Lane 216, ZhongXiao E Rd,
Sec 4 ; (02) 8771-9454
Hours:11 am-2 am;
Fri-Sat 11 am-3 am
Brunch available on Sat and Sun 11 am-4 pm
(Closed Mondays.)

In 2003, Tapas Cafe's Spanish influence prompted the arrival of Dimmer. After a disappearance, it has reopened with its easygoing atmosphere and main chef Hsiao's excellent culinary skills. Dimmer now provides brunch sets on weekends (NT$250, NT$350) and various hot and cold Tapas at nights. Tapas are ordered a la carte and placed on the table for all to try. On the menu Hsiao has added more than ten new Mediterranean items. Hsiao sometimes mixes southern French, Italian and Spanish cuisines with flavours from Cyprus, Turkey and north Africa. --By Josie Wu, translated by Picker Chen
A. Earth tone crochets and lighting transform countryside simplicity into a bar of comfort and languid ease.
B. Dimmer uses many fresh ingredients, natural vanilla and other seasonings. The Beef Ragout Spanish Style (NT$400) is a classic. Beef chunks are broiled with bay leaves for hours, with anchovies and capers added for flavour. The last ingredient is juniper berry soaked in gin. The result is a strong taste similar to the Chinese beef noodles, yet is light, flavourful and goes well with bread and red wine.