The Official Full List of the 2019 Michelin Guide Taipei   24 Starred Restaurants and 58 Bib Gourmand Picks

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots / Reported   Photography by Liao Weiren

"The 2019 Michelin Guide Taipei" was grandly launched on April 10. The second edition of the Taipei guide includes three new two-star restaurants and four new one-star restaurants. A total of 24 starred restaurants were announced, along with the 58 Bib Gourmand selections.

First-time recipient of two Michelin starsFen Tian Benis an authentic sushi restaurant with only 12 seats at its solid hinoki counter. The chef is humble and friendly, using natural spring water from Nagano, Japan, to cook the sushi rice, while the fish used for nigiri is imported seasonally from Japan, mainly from Kyushu and some from Tokyo. A full omakase course consists of 20 dishes, including 12 pieces of nigiri.

TaïrroirThis year, a one-star establishment was upgraded to two stars. The Taiwanese chef, brimming with talent, presents a culinary concept that blends Taiwan’s local culture, emphasizing the use of local ingredients to reinterpret Taiwanese cuisine. He creates dishes with modern techniques, presenting ingredients like works of art, where flavor and texture collide to offer diners an unprecedented gastronomic experience.　

RawAlso upgraded from one star to two stars this year. The owner and head chef, André Chiang, returned triumphantly to Taiwan after achieving success in Singapore. He recreates Taiwanese cuisine with highly creative modern techniques, sometimes presenting traditional Taiwanese snacks in a completely new light. The tasting menu features nine courses, each showcasing Chef Chiang’s innovative take on Taiwanese food, offering diners a taste of modern Taiwanese cuisine that is both rich in flavor and warmth.　

Also maintaining their two-star status this year areSushi Shisen Kaikan (Xiang Yun Long Yin)andDin Tai Fung,which continue to hold their two-star crowns.　

Commenting on the list released in the 2019 Taipei Guide, Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the Michelin Guides, said: “Taipei’s dining scene is evolving at an astonishing pace. Our inspectors were impressed by the high standard and international appeal of Taiwanese cuisine. Local chefs in Taiwan, who have been exposed to international influences, are extremely talented and bold in innovation—factors that will undoubtedly attract food lovers from around the world.”