Can't get a reservation no matter how much you want to eat — Taiwan's top 10 hardest-to-book restaurants

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 
Taiwanese people love food and often wait in line for hours just to eat. It seems the harder it is to get a reservation, the more delicious the food is perceived to be, and the more unattainable it is, the more people crave it. Here is a list of Taiwan’s most popular and hardest-to-book restaurants — without patience to queue or determination to reserve, you won’t get a seat.
 
● Kura Sushi (Zang Sushi)
Kura Sushi is a long-established affordable sushi chain from Osaka, Japan. It prides itself on not using chemical seasonings, artificial sweeteners, synthetic colorings, or artificial preservatives, making it one of the most beloved conveyor belt sushi chains in Japan. The most fun part about dining here is exchanging accumulated empty sushi plates for a chance to win prizes from the gashapon machines — something that’s extremely appealing to Taiwanese diners who enjoy novel dining experiences. Please note that Kura Sushi does not accept phone reservations; bookings must be made through their dedicated app.

【Info】
Kura Sushi Songjiang Nanjing Store
Address: B1, No. 101, Section 2, Nanjing East Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
Business hours: Weekdays 11:00 - 22:00, Holidays 10:30 - 22:00
 
 
●HELLO KITTY Shabu-Shabu
The world’s first Hello Kitty-themed Japanese-style hot pot restaurant opened in mid-2015 and quickly became a hot topic. The restaurant is filled with creative touches incorporating Kitty elements throughout the space, including decor, tableware, and even the dishes — sure to delight any fan.

【Info】
HELLO KITTY Shabu-Shabu
Address: No. 16, Lane 27, Alley 216, Section 4, Zhongxiao East Road, Taipei City
Phone reservations: 02–2711 5216
Online reservations: Available via the Hello Kitty Shabu Shabu official Facebook page
Reservation service hours: 12:00 – 18:00
Business hours: Monday – Sunday 11:30 – 22:00

● NB Kids Italian Restaurant
The eye-catching NB Kids Italian Restaurant is located near the Taichung City Council. Its spacious and bright interior includes a play area for children, creating a very comfortable atmosphere. Although it’s a family-friendly restaurant, it also attracts many non-family diners. Reservations are only accepted up to six days in advance, so if you want to eat here, you’ll need to book early.

【Info】
Address: No. 6, Fuhuiyuan Road, Xitun District, Taichung City
Phone: 04-22540691
Business hours: 8:30 – 22:00
 
●RAW
Restaurant RAW, founded by celebrity chef André Chiang, has received international acclaim since its opening on December 9, 2014. In less than a year, it earned awards such as “Asia’s 101 Best Restaurants” and “Asia’s Best Design Restaurant.” Its high-level cuisine and exceptional space design have continually gained global recognition. Due to its immense popularity, booking a table is famously difficult. RAW currently does not accept phone reservations and requires all bookings to be made online, with reservations only available from the current day up to two weeks in advance.