Continuing to expand across Taiwan   Haidilao hotpot chain’s next move is to open stores in Taoyuan and Kaohsiung

Reported by Huang Shiyuan / Taipei

The Sichuan-style hotpot brand Haidilao from mainland China continues to expand its presence in Taiwan. After announcing plans to open its fifth store at Taipei Main Station’s Jinghua Mall by the end of 2017, the brand’s next steps are to establish outlets in Taoyuan and Kaohsiung. The Taoyuan branch will be located in the Tonlin Department Store in front of Taoyuan Railway Station, with an expected opening in March 2018. Meanwhile, the Kaohsiung store will be situated in Hanshin Arena, with a tentative opening scheduled for September 2018.

Tonlin Department Store in Taoyuan has been closed since February for a year-long renovation and upgrade, with plans to designate floors 6 to 8 as themed restaurants. Rumors had circulated that Haidilao would move into the renovated mall, though the department store did not confirm anything at the time. Recently, Haidilao has begun recruiting staff for its Taoyuan location, with the anticipated opening in March 2018, coinciding with the reopening of Tonlin Department Store. Hotpot lovers in Taoyuan now have another option to choose from, and the dining scene in the Taipei Main Station area just got even more vibrant.

With Haidilao already present in Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Taichung, the next logical step is heading south. The first southern outlet will be located in Hanshin Arena, but the opening is tentatively set for September 2018, so friends in Kaohsiung may need to wait a bit longer.

Haidilao’s biggest highlight is its “over-the-top service.” In addition to constant attentiveness—asking if you’d like tea, a massage, or a manicure—the brand is also known for “babysitting” services. Another must-try is the dramatic noodle performance: a young chef twirls noodles in rhythm with music, slowly stretching them before cooking them in your pot.

Taipei Main Station Tonlin Branch: No. 61, Zhongzheng Road, Taoyuan District, Taoyuan City
Hanshin Arena Branch: No. 777, Bo’ai 2nd Road, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City