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COMPASS MAGAZINE, July 2007

Escaping everyday life with modern Japanese cuisine at Mizumi

By Yukari Image Translated by Ann Lee

26, WenXin S Rd
(04) 2475-8118
Hours: 11:30 am-2:30 pm, 5:30-9:30 pm
Credit cards accepted. 10% service charge.
Parking available. No smoking indoors.

Are you looking for a restaurant that will take you away from the hustle and the bustle of the busy city? If so, modern Japanese restaurant Mizumi is a perfect escape.
The restaurant is located on WenXin South Road, just opposite an attractive Starbucks outlet. Stepping in from the outside rush, I entered Mizumi's composed ambiance and was welcomed by the enthusiastic voices of the staff. My attention was drawn to the fish tank, full of many lively creatures, just behind the sushi bar. I even saw an octopus escaping out of the tank! There are some decorative plates and colorful sake glasses on the shelves, lit by indirect light which helps create the subdued ambiance.

Throughout my meal at Mizumi, I experienced one wonderful surprise after another, including the Seafood Jelly Salad (NT$160). The refreshing salad melted in my mouth with a cool sensation the moment it met my tongue. I imagined that the jelly part would be firmer, but it was just like eating round-shaped soup.

Layers of Pan-Fried Scallops accompanied with Yuzu Miso Sauce (NT$280) was another delight. Although I thought it looked like a pan-seared scallop, it turned out to be something entirely different. The scallop was encased in bacon and sandwiched between fruit, for a very nice surprise that stimulated my taste buds. From that point on, I was very excited to see what each new dish would be. It's obvious that Chef Chu enjoys creating each entree as much as diners enjoy eating them. The influence of various cuisines on his cooking came through in other dishes like the Pan-fried Foie Gras and King Prawns with Balsamic Sauce (NT$580). Notably, all seafood products are delivered fresh each day from the fish market.

After a meal, owner Ms. Chen escorts guests up to the third floor, where they can enjoy a cup of coffee and freshly-baked dessert. The decor here is very different from the dining area, with soft, relaxing colors. From the comfort of a cozy sofa, you can listen to the sound of the coffee being brewed siphon-style and enjoy wall-mounted artwork designed by the owner herself.

There is no printed menu at Mizumi, where dinner sets start at NT$1,200, and lunches start at NT$580. You can also order entrees a la carte. The combination of warm hospitality and creative cooking makes Mizumi a welcome way to enjoy exceptional modern Japanese cuisine.

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