A popular restaurant and bar opened by a well-known talent agent—chance to spot Jolin Tsai and Show Lo

Text & Photos /XiongMiao Rudy

The Family Playhouse Restaurant & Bar, created by three stylish gentlemen, features dishes infused with alcohol—try the sesame oil chicken truffle risotto, which is both delicious and unique.

Over the past few years, Xiong and Miao have dined at many restaurants and witnessed countless creative concepts. Many individuals passionate about the food and beverage industry have entered this market, achieving notable success within their own circles. However, once they step into the F&B business and realize their dream of becoming bosses, the real hard work begins. Despite this, many bold and determined friends continue to flock to the industry. This time, Xiong was invited to visit Family Playhouse, a specialty restaurant and bar located in the Eastern District (just across the street from Xiong’s home).

This shop is situated along the MRT route Xiong used to take daily before getting married. Now, it’s run by three of Xiong’s good friends, including a well-known talent agent (a key figure behind top celebrities), a record lyricist who is also a stylish man passionate about cooking and fine wine, and a young man skilled in interior design and home decor. Together, they’ve created Family PlayHouse, showcasing their creativity and dreams. It has also become a gathering spot for music industry stars, where celebrities like Jolin Tsai, Show Lo, Elva Hsiao, and Rainie Yang can often be spotted. (And there are many, many more famous faces who visit.)

Home

As the name suggests, the first “home” represents making guests feel at ease, as if they’re returning home. The second “home” reflects the strong design aesthetic here—you can also admire and purchase stylish home decor. The final “wine” highlights the trio’s love for fine beverages, meaning every dish is infused with alcohol, offering uniquely flavorful experiences.

Prepare to push open the wooden-toned main door, where the custom-designed “Drunk Bear” doormat greets you.

During the day, large floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with warm natural light (giving off cozy café vibes), while from another angle, the interior also carries a touch of refined lounge style. The “Let’s Play Together!” slogan on the floor showcases the genuine, fun atmosphere of Family PlayHouse. Further inside, the left-side “CHEERS” sign nods to the venue’s alcoholic offerings (but remember: don’t drink and drive!).

The cloud-shaped pendant lights above are another design highlight. The embedded “CHEERS” in the wooden wall adds a Nordic-style texture (and somehow makes you want to raise a glass!).

To be honest, by the standards of a new player in the F&B scene, Family PlayHouse boasts excellent style and ambiance (strong design sense without neglecting details). Looking closer at the bar counter, the stools are actually part of the design home decor sold here—but generously placed for in-house use. The people behind the bar and nearby are two of the owners.

The distinctive “Drunk Bear” graphic shines brightly in the venue.

Beyond the Drunk Bear motif, there’s also a special cloud-shaped chandelier that can change colors and even simulate thunder sounds. (The realism is striking.)

Before heading upstairs, Xiong checked out the first-floor restroom for any design surprises—only to get a slight fright. (This photo shows two cute kids, but check the next one closely.) Apparently, a certain internet celebrity was so startled she let out a scream.

From a different angle, the expressions of the two kids look quite different.

Next, it’s time to step into the true PlayHouse area of Family PlayHouse.

The reddish lighting enhances the lounge vibe. Transparent display cabinets showcase home decor items available for purchase. Doesn’t this angle just scream “party ready”? (Even the most introverted or anti-social person would want a drink after five minutes here!!) For some reason, Xiong was instantly reminded of Amsterdam’s nightclubs. The ceiling-hugging light fixtures create a wildly festive indoor space.

Next up: the soul of Family PlayHouse—the menu.

First, for appetizers, Xiong chose the Spicy Fried Chicken Wings with Floral Pepper (250 TWD each), then added the Truffle Sesame Oil Chicken Risotto (280 TWD each)—this is a favorite dish of diva Elva Hsiao, haha. Apparently, she visits quite often. Next, the Vodka-Pepper Flavored Cuttlefish Roe Pasta (300 TWD each).

It all looks amazing. Next time, these dishes must be tried. Beyond the artistic decor, the dishes here are quite playful. Not only are they infused with alcohol, but their names are fun too. Still hungry? Add the Vodka-Grilled Perch Cheeks (280 TWD per serving, four pieces) and the Garlic-Dusted Cube Ribeye Steak (680 TWD per serving) for the perfect meal. Then, there are dessert options too.

Next comes the spirit of Family PlayHouse—its alcoholic beverages. Xiong gave them a try, and the simple takeaway is: the alcohol is STRONG. (Definitely worth it.) Apparently, they also host themed nights—sometimes buy-one-get-one-free or extra-high-alcohol specials. Xiong ordered two drinks: Take Me Away (280 TWD per glass) and Fainting Ice Tea (350 TWD per glass). There are too many to list—drink as much as you like. (But again, no drinking if you’re driving, and always drink responsibly!)

They’ve got everything: draft beer, white wine, red wine, spirits, gin, rum, tequila, and salads. Try the Sake-Flavored Papaya and Squid Salad (250 TWD per serving). And for soups—if you don’t have a drink here, are you really doing yourself justice?

Before the food arrives, take a look at the Take Me Away (280 TWD per glass) and Fainting Ice Tea (350 TWD per glass) first.

Take Me Away (280 TWD per glass) blends vodka, gin, rum, beer, and liqueurs, offering a layered taste with high alcohol content—but it’s refreshing and not overly harsh.

Meanwhile, Family PlayHouse’s Fainting Ice Tea (350 TWD per glass) feels smooth at first sip but hits hard afterward. After one glass, even Xiong—who considers themselves a decent drinker—felt it. Guess three glasses might be too much. Next, here comes another signature photo moment. (This one’s even spookier.)

The mirror creates two totally different vibes inside and out—take your time at the sink or toilet to soak it in.

First up: the Sake-Flavored Papaya and Squid Salad (250 TWD per serving).

The teardrop plating gives off a lively vibe, and the pickled beans visually stimulate a refreshing sensation even before tasting.

The fresh vegetables help awaken the palate, while the pickled beans and squid together deliver a sharp, tangy punch that stimulates saliva. The squid is wonderfully chewy and thick enough to dance and roll around your teeth—it’s practically the singing and dancing star of the dish. Next comes the vodka-grilled perch cheek (NT$280, four pieces per serving), which pairs perfectly with alcohol.

Crispy, fragrant, and best enjoyed hot—you can really taste the tender texture of the perch. The seasoning is refreshing without overpowering the natural flavor, showcasing an excellent philosophy of respecting the ingredients. Then there’s the dark-colored but unforgettable spicy fried chicken wings with flower pepper (NT$250, per serving).

The chicken wings here are noticeably well-browned, but the standout is their aromatic spiciness. Each bite delivers a hit of numbness and heat, and paired with the juicy meat, it’s the kind of dish that gets more addictive the more you eat.

The final dish—and today’s absolute favorite of Xiong—is the Truffle Sesame Oil Chicken Risotto (NT$280, per serving), a fusion creation that somehow feels completely natural. To be honest, Xiong was initially worried that combining two intensely bold flavors would turn this risotto into a disaster. Sesame oil chicken is already super rich in flavor, and truffle is the king of aromatic ingredients in Western cuisine—putting them together shouldn’t work, right? But in reality, they have an oddly harmonious and complementary relationship. It’s absolutely brilliant!!

The first bite brings out the rich aroma of sesame oil chicken, followed by the fragrance of truffle. But the slightly thicker slices of ginger serve as the perfect medium between these two strong flavors, easing the intensity on the palate and preparing it to take on another challenge. Each bite is a new experience. The chicken is chewy with a sweet, fresh taste, showing great style and a sense of culinary adventure. For those who love cross-cultural cuisine—or fans hoping for a chance encounter with their idols—a visit to Jiajiajiu PlayHouse is a fantastic opportunity for both amazing food and a potential celebrity sighting!

Jiajiajiu PlayHouse Restaurant & Bar

Address: No. 49, Lane 308, Guangfu South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City

Phone: (02) 2776-6962

Business Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 6 PM to 1 AM (Closed on Mondays)

Recommendation: Reasonably priced with slightly smaller portions, but high in refinement and variety, plus an excellent indoor ambiance with a party vibe

　　　Great for anyone looking to enjoy a drink, whether male or female—it’s a relaxing and enjoyable experience, just like being at home!

Reminder from ETtoday News Cloud: Don’t drink and drive—safety comes first.