Authentic “Italian Risotto” in Taipei’s Tianmu – Choose from 14 Flavors!

Photos & Text byMin G

When it comes to the commonly known “risotto,” it mainly falls into two categories: “Italian risotto” and “Spanish paella.” Among them, “Italian risotto” is more widely recognized. Also known as “Italian seasoned rice” or “Italian braised rice,” it is characterized by rice grains that absorb the sauce, delivering both the chewiness of the rice and the richness of the sauce in one bite. The juicy texture of the rice, enveloped in flavor, is precisely what makes risotto so captivating. Pino Italian Restaurant in Tianmu has made “risotto” its signature dish, and with its exclusive focus on risotto, it holds a unique spot among Tianmu’s Italian eateries.

Pino Italian Risotto Specialty Shop was actually opened by Chef Hsieh Yirong, who enjoys great popularity in the world of Italian cuisine. Having personally trained in Italy, his dishes carry a distinctly Italian flair. To ensure an authentic taste, all ingredients used in the restaurant are imported directly from Italy.

The interior of the shop is designed in a warm, rustic style, decorated with various illustrations, including hand-painted risotto prints that add an artistic touch to the ambiance. Beyond the artwork, there’s also a colorful staircase inscribed with the word “rice” in multiple languages. The restaurant even features a play area for children, adding a playful charm to the dining space.

In terms of menu options, Pino Italian Risotto Specialty Shop offers a total of 14 types of risotto. On the day of my visit, I chose the “Seafood Pesto Risotto.” Initially, I was a bit hesitant because many pesto-based dishes can become overly rich and heavy by the end, overwhelming the palate. However, this pesto had no such issue—instead, it offered a bold yet refreshingly balanced flavor. The burst of flavor from the sauce upon the first bite, combined with the al dente rice grains, paired with seafood such as shrimp, scallops, and squid, created a rich and satisfying mouthfeel, truly showcasing the idea that 1+1 can be greater than 2.

It’s worth highlighting that the risotto here uses Italian rice, which has longer grains and is less prone to overcooking. Even after simmering, it retains its firmness, making it quite a unique experience for first-time risotto eaters. Additionally, you can pair your risotto with the restaurant’s unlimited cheese slices—this combination is absolutely fantastic. However, eating the cheese on its own might be a bit too salty, so it’s better enjoyed together with the risotto.

Moreover, Pino Italian Risotto Specialty Shop features an open kitchen, allowing diners to watch the cooking process firsthand—an indication of the restaurant’s commitment to hygiene. With its cozy atmosphere and authentic Italian-style risotto, come here for a first love affair with Italian risotto.

Pino Italian Risotto Specialty Shop
Address: No. 140, Section 6, Zhongshan N. Rd., Shilin District, Taipei City (Opposite Tianmu SOGO)
Phone: 02-2834-8828

Author: Min G

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