Highly recommended locally: The must-order "oven-roasted German pork knuckle" at Tianmu’s European cuisine spot

Text and photos byBurnout Nurse

Having operated in Tianmu for many years, Yuehu Restaurant specializes in German and Austrian cuisine. Its refined dishes featuring special seasonings—such as tender French herb-crusted lamb chops, premium American ribeye steaks, Vienna-style roasted chicken legs, and crispy-skinned yet tender German-style roast pork knuckles—are among the beloved signature dishes that diners often rave about. The value-packed lunch sets offered at noon are also highly recommended by local residents.

Yuehu has been around for 18 years if you include its predecessor in Shilin. The owner couple learned Western cuisine from Mao Yongnian and his wife, traveling abroad together to explore. Nineteen years ago, during a trip to Europe, they passed by Yuehu—one of Austria’s Seven Lakes—noting its beautiful scenery and numerous open-air cafés, which left a deep impression. When they later opened their restaurant, they named it Yuehu.

After visiting Yuehu, the restaurant in Shilin was decorated with an Austrian flair. After traveling extensively in Italy, they moved to Tianmu eight years ago, where the Tianmu branch incorporates Italian elements. Over half of the vegetables here are grown using Jinbao Technology’s dust-free organic produce, and fresh mushrooms are used, while other fruits and vegetables are personally handpicked by the owner at the market. The menu is developed with the help of professional consultants and updated periodically. Thanks to the freshness and quality of the ingredients, it has won over many taste buds. The pork knuckle here is roasted in an open hearth—truly a classic among classics.

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With its inviting dining atmosphere and delicious food, it’s no wonder the place was nearly full even during our lunchtime visit for this interview.

The olives served as an appetizer are one of Yuehu’s specialties—they’re marinated in olive oil, Italian herbs, and three-year-aged Italian vinaigrette, resulting in a tasty and appetizing flavor.

Yuehu’s chef’s salad changes periodically to surprise customers. Today’s version features Iberico ham paired with organic vegetables, along with kumquats, apples, six-year-aged Italian balsamic vinegar, Ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beetroot that’s been simmered in sugar and vinegar. This dish is truly both delicious and nostalgic.

Signature Oven-Roasted German Pork Knuckle—First marinated with spices for 48 hours, then boiled for two hours before going into the oven. Without any frying, it’s entirely roasted: 20 minutes in a steam oven. Once out, it’s served with Yuehu’s signature sauerkraut, made by blanching imported sauerkraut and stir-frying it with fresh cabbage, bay leaves, and bacon. The texture has a slightly hard, crispy skin that’s super chewy, and when paired with the well-matched sauerkraut, it leaves you wanting more. Even the leftover large pork bone is perfect for making a delicious radish soup at home.

Pan-Fried Pork Liver with Italian Balsamic Vinegar—This dish presents pork liver in a very Western style, belonging to the Italian cuisine category. The liver is first blanched repeatedly to remove blood, then the skin is seared to a crisp and slightly crunchy texture, paired with six-year-aged Italian balsamic vinegar, arugula, and king oyster mushrooms. The surprising deliciousness of each bite makes it a favorite among pork liver lovers.

Garlic-Flavored Floral Squid Ink Pasta—This high-demand Italian pasta is a favorite among many gourmets, so much so that regulars have protested when the owner tried to take it off the menu. The squid inside is incredibly fresh and tender, paired with noodles seasoned with fresh chili for a flavorful and springy bite. This dish is simply addictive.

Marsala Butter Beef and Vegetable Rice—Pan-seared beef is first flambéed with Marsala wine, then served with vegetables. The dish is served with rice on the side rather than as a risotto to avoid the wine flavor being too strong, allowing guests to enjoy the taste without it being overly rich or intoxicating. Surprisingly, mixing it all together creates a uniquely delightful flavor.

Today’s dessert isRed Velvet Cake—A cake made with beetroot-based sponge paired with cream cheese frosting, diced strawberries, and raspberry jam. It’s not only refined and unique but also provides a perfect ending to today’s meal.

This long-standing Yuehu in Tianmu is a solid, authentic European cuisine restaurant, especially its signature German pork knuckle, which is truly unforgettable. The midday lunch sets offer another great option for those who want delicious food without spending too much. If you’re craving German pork knuckle, Tianmu’s Yuehu is definitely worth a visit.

Yuehu European Cuisine
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Address: No. 6, Lane 50, Section 2, Zhongzheng Rd., Shilin District, Taipei City
Phone: 02-2838 1478
Business Hours: 11:30–15:00, 18:00–22:00
Transportation:
By Bus: Alight at “Lanya Junior High School” via Bus Red 12, Red 15 Branch, 203, 206 Branch, 279, 285, 606, 616, 645, 645 Branch, 646, or 685. Enter the lane directly opposite the main gate of Lanya Junior High School (with Yuanta Securities at the entrance).
By MRT: Walk about 20 minutes along Dexing East Rd. from Zhishan MRT Station.
Driving directions: Turn right onto Zhongzheng North Road Section 6 onto Zhongcheng Road, make a U-turn after Dexing East Road at the traffic light in front of Lanya Junior High School, then enter from the alley directly opposite the school’s main gate (the alley entrance is next to Yuanta Securities).

We are hardworking nurses “Meatball” & “Bowl | Junbao” who wanted to share our experiences and unforgettable memories with everyone. We hope our written introductions will help you better understand the natural scenery, cultural atmosphere, and local cuisine of this place, leaving an indelible impression on fellow travelers. BlogFan page