Contributing to the delicious flavors of Taichung

Words and photos by Taichung City Government
Translated by Naomi Lai

■ Profile of Terry Southcott:
Name: Terry Southcott
Nationality: Australia
Profession: Owner/Manager, La Terrasse Bistro

Fueled with the pioneering and adventurous spirit of an Australian, Terry Southcott came to Taiwan 24 years ago. After starting off as a bartender, Terry eventually opened his own business, La Terrasse Bistro, in Taichung about 10 years ago.

Launching a culinary career in Taichung
Today, Terry speaks fluent Chinese and has a passion for oriental culture and Chinese culinary arts. Back in 1986, he was working in a Taipei restaurant when he met Sheila, who herself was a chef skilled in all kinds of cooking. A mutual interest in the culinary arts brought them together, as they quickly fell in love and started a family together.

In 1994, Terry moved to Taichung with his wife. He explains, "We decided that Taichung was a great place after comparing it with various other cities", noting that the mild weather, friendly people and comfortable living found in Taiwan's third-largest city were a great attraction for him and his family. They later found a place on DaSheng Street and opened La Terrasse Bistro, which they decorated with a cozy European country-style ambiance, complete with chirping birds and swimming fish.

Evolving into an increasingly flavorful, cultured city
Thanks to La Terrasse, Terry has gained over a decade's worth of experience in the local culinary world. When he opened, he decided to start by focusing on his specialty--French cuisine--before expanding to include Italian pastas and pizza. Then, at the request of foreign diners, he introduced Mexican burritos, English pudding and European-style sandwiches to his menu. As an open-minded Aussie, Terry takes joy in trying new ideas and fusing different cultures together. Testament to this fact is La Terrasse's originally-French menu, which has been altered through the years to become today's long list, also written on the restaurant walls in chalk.

As they've managed their restaurant, the Southcotts have also had the chance to witness changes in Taichung. First, there was an increase in cultural events, and the concurrent changes in the local international community, from earlier business people to a more recent influx of foreigners in town for the culture, tourism or teaching English. At the same time, Taichung's infrastructure has also become increasingly international, giving residents the chance to revel in the city's rhythms without visiting specific major attractions. Such additions, such as the extra benches and pedestrian paths added along the HuaMei Street canal district, have helped the Southcotts love Taichung even more.

After many years of studying and practicing the art of cooking, the Southcotts have shared many delightful flavors with their friends in Taichung. Like their delicious entrees, their observations of and contributions to the growing cultural flavors of Taichung are also unforgettably wonderful.