Inn Cafe

It’s a fact that some of Taichung’s best-kept dining secrets can be found inside the city’s hotels, these being “secret” because many diners don’t automatically consider hotels when it comes to eating out.
An attractive example of excellent, reasonably-priced hotel dining can be found at Inhouse Hotel Grand, a relatively new residence that continues to earn fresh fans. Situated on the first floor, the spacious Inn Cafe seats about 80 in an understated modern elegance that includes a mix of medium-hued wood, polished stone, green highlights and indirect lighting. A large attractive bar reminds you that this is also a decent watering hole with a full alcoholic selection.
Entrees lean towards Italian pasta and risotto dishes, like top-sellers Wild Mushroom Pasta (or risotto) with Sauteed Chicken Ribs and Truffle Cream Sauce, served with teppan-grilled chicken and a flavorful truffle and cream sauce, or Spaghetti with Steak with Olive Oil and Garlic, featuring New York strip steak. The average price is a reasonable NT$280, which also covers soup, salad and bread.
For something extra unique, there is a limited-quantity menu of creative Asian-inspired entrees, like the classic Singapore-style Hainanese Chicken Rice, served with turmeric rice and various dipping sauces; Korean-Style Risotto with Pork, featuring Korean layered pork, kimchi and side dishes; and Japanese-style Curry Risotto Omurice with Tender Pork.
Among lighter dining or snacking options are a couple of salads, finger foods like Crispy Cheese Potatoes (NT$100) and New Orleans Style Chicken Wings (NT$150), NT$100 dessert tarts, and a 2-5 p.m. tiered NT$339 High Tea Set that comes with one menu drink but can be enjoyed by two. Besides coffees, there are traditional Taiwanese and other teas (NT$120-150) and juices.
Given the fact that he’s also an experienced bartender, hotel Beverage & Food Manager Mike Huang reminded me that the bar here offers about 36 cocktails (NT$280-350), ranging from the classics to various creative in-house inventions like Raspberry Rose, made with raspberry vodka and rose water. Alcoholic beverages (last call 10:30 p.m.) also include beers, ciders, wines and other spirits.

北區五權路228號1樓 (薆悅酒店五權館) (04) 2201-1666
228, WuQuan Rd, North Dist, 1F (Inhouse Hotel Grand)
11:30 am-11 pm (午餐最後點餐/lunch last order 2 pm,
晚餐最後點餐/dinner last order 8:30 pm)

Don’t drink and drive