From our archives, Compass Magazine, Mar. 2002:
By Nancy Tu Translated by John Johnson
If there has been one constant in the Taichung dining scene over the past decade or two, it is the buffet restaurant. Central Taiwan residents have a well-known fondness for the smorgasbord-style eateries, where one can eat to his or her heart’s content for one price. Below are just a few of the many buffet options available in the city.
International Seafood Buffet (Taichung Branch)
This restaurant’s buffet features more than 100 seafood, European and Japanese dishes. In addition, there is a large tank from which diners can choose dinner ingredients, which are immediately cooked. On good-weather days, customers may dine in the romantic outdoor garden. A large range of beverages are available, including juices, sake, beer, whiskey and brandy, with free refills. There are regular piano and violin performances (2:15-3 pm; 6:45-7:30 pm Mon-Fri) which are very popular, so it is best to reserve a table in advance during these times to avoid long waits. Standard prices range from NT$458 to NT$688 for adults, NT$258 to NT$380 for old children, and NT$188 to NT$288 for younger ones.


Lin Garden Restaurant
This restaurant was inspired by the buffet restaurants in Las Vegas’ five-star hotels. The buffet features numerous foreign cuisines such as Cantonese, American, Japanese and French, and includes cold plates, stewed dishes, kebabs, ice-cream, fruit and drinks. All of the dishes are prepared with fresh, quality ingredients. In addition, the chef visits the customers’ tables to introduce the daily specials. In this way, the restaurant staff are able to understand and meet individual customer needs. Prices range from NT$480 to NT$660 for adults. It is half price for children 90cm to 130 cm, and NT$100 for children under 90 cm in height.
111, HuiChung (HuiJung) Rd., sec. 1
Reservations: (04) 2255-1111
Hours: Lunch 11 am-2 pm; Afternoon Lunch 1-4 pm; Late Afternoon Lunch 2:20-4:30 pm; Dinner 5-7:30 pm; Late Dinner 7:30-9:30 pm
Don Feng Ger Buffet and Shanghai Food
Each of these restaurants belongs to the Tonghai Seafood Dining Association. The buffet features Shanghainese cuisine which has attracted a loyal customer following and offers a variety of dishes, according to season. Typically, there are beef and fish dishes, as well as a number of Japanese and seafood selections, including raw oysters, sashimi and crab. Don Feng Ger also has nightly music performances from 7 to 8 pm. Each month, there is a food festival based on a different theme. Buffet prices range from NT$360 to NT$550 for adults, with children from 90 to 120 cm in height costing NT$250 to NT$350, and kids under 90 cm getting in for NT$150.
67, HuiChung (HuiJung) Rd., sec. 3
115, TaijungGang (TaichungKang) Rd., sec. 3; tel. (04) 2359-8888
106, TaijungGang (TaichungKang) Rd., sec. 3; tel. (04) 2461-5566
236, DaDuen South Rd.; tel. (04) 2473-6577
2, JungShing (ChungHsing) Rd., sec. 2, Dali City, Taichung County; tel. (04) 2483-3668
45, JangTsau (ChangTsao) Rd., Chang Hua City; tel. (047) 631899
Hours: Lunch 11:30 am-1:40 pm; Afternoon Lunch 1:40-4:20 pm; Dinner 5-9:30 pm

Chiangwu Japanese Cuisine
The food served here is cooked immediately upon ordering, so that freshness and taste are preserved. The menu includes sashimi, salads, pickled dishes, barbecue, mutton, stir-fried dishes and shrimp from the Antarctic. However, the dishes come in four-person portions, making this restaurant best for families or groups. One reason for its increasing popularity is its prices. From Monday to Friday, the average price is NT$350 for an adult and NT$200 for children. On weekends and holidays, adult and child prices are respectively NT$400 and NT$200.
135, UenShin (WenHsin) Rd., sec. 3
Reservations: (04) 2315-3737
91, ChangPing Rd., sec. 1; Tel: (04) 2232-1455
Lunch 11:30 am-2 pm; Dinner 5:30-9 pm

Bachi Japanese Cuisine
This restaurant boasts a head chef who has over 20 years of experience preparing Japanese dishes. He is especially particular about the ingredients, and insists on some being imported from Japan. The sashimi and sushi are of the highest quality. In addition, the sauces and seasoning are all prepared by hand. The restaurant’s interior is extremely spacious and open, allowing customers to dine in comfort. This place is ideal for small groups or families. The buffet, including service charge, ranges from NT$336 to NT$494 for adults and is free for children under 100 cm in height.
277, WuChiuan (WuChuan) West Rd.





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