An authentic American-style burger joint run by foreigners—juicy and tender beef, not greasy at all

▲ Phil's Grills—the foreign owner and chef of Phil's Burgers.

Photos & Text /MIKA's Foodie Adventure Log

There’s now an American burger shop in Dajia too. Though I’m not a burger fanatic, as someone who enjoys trying new things, I’m always happy to have options beyond McDonald’s or KFC. This place is quite interesting—run by a foreigner, reportedly a teacher. The funniest part? He doesn’t speak any Chinese, so communicating with him can be quite a challenge.

They used to have an English-speaking staff member to help with communication, but it seems they’re no longer employed, so they’re currently hiring again—I think working here would be pretty cool, as it could help improve your English skills. The whole place has a very casual vibe, and the foreign owner-chef is actually quite shy, which makes the whole experience quite unique. It’s just a tiny shop located on Wenwu Road, right around the corner from Xiao Budian’s gourmet fresh meat glutinous rice balls. It’s super small and easy to miss if you’re not paying attention.


This graffiti style is so American. They’re actively recruiting full-time staff—strong English communication skills required.


The space inside is really small, barely enough to fit about twenty people. And no reservations—only walk-ins and waiting in line.


Their menu is super simple—just beef burgers, bacon cheeseburgers, chicken burgers, pork burgers, etc. Mainly burgers, fried items, and salads. Plus, for an extra NT$35, you can upgrade any burger to a combo that includes a drink and fries.


The drinks are all just what’s in the fridge.


You grab your own toppings and utensils since the owner is super busy, haha.




The back of the store card is where you’ll find the mini menu.


For an extra NT$35, you can upgrade your burger to a combo that comes with a drink and fries. For the drink, just grab a cola from the fridge, open it yourself. I asked for ice and a cup, but the ice ran out, so I had to drink it as is.


Phil's Fries - Small / NT$20 Large / NT$30
The fries are really affordable, and they’re super crispy. The potatoes inside are soft, and eating them hot and fresh is absolutely delicious. And the price isn’t bad either.


Cheese Sticks - Small / NT$40 Large / NT$60
A small portion of four cheese sticks for NT$40 is pretty decent. They’re fried to a nice crisp and have a great cheesy aroma.


The cheese inside is actually quite generous—rich and stretchy.


Check out how long the “ice cream girl” can stretch the cheese—it’s only about this much, really.


The best way to enjoy the fries and cheese sticks is with ketchup or yellow mustard.


Chicken Burger - NT$110
The burgers are actually pretty big, but about the size of what you can hold in one hand.


It’s just chicken, lettuce, onions, and tomato slices—a simple combo. Their chicken is grilled, so you can see those nice grill marks, and grilling is healthier than frying, though the taste is a bit different.


The chicken is pretty juicy—it’s ground meat, but still tasty. The flavor is light, with not too many artificial seasonings, more of the natural taste of the ingredients, which feels healthier. But it’s also not particularly distinctive, just a solid, average chicken burger.


Beef Bacon Cheeseburger - NT$145 (plain beef burger without cheese or bacon)
The cheeseburger ordered by Ice Girl costs more, but it’s also more filling. Especially the cheese—it’s almost overflowing. The beef patty is thick, plus bacon, rich cheese, and lots of veggies like lettuce and tomatoes. It’s juicy, flavorful, and the beef aroma is strong. The taste is a bit heavier, but in a good, rich way. Their burgers aren’t greasy, they’re refreshing, yet still packed with flavor where it counts. It’s a solid, standard American burger. Recommended for everyone to try. Up~



【Phil's Grills 菲尔汉堡】

Phone:04-2688-0776
Address:No. 87, Wenwu Road, Dajia District, Taichung City
Business Hours:11:00 - 21:00 (Closed on Mondays)

Traveling is about returning to where you came from with deeper understanding

MIKA's Travel & Food Diary