Local eatery in Kaohsiung serves up international flavors with seafood hot pot noodles and blueberry burger

Text & Photos /Kaohsiung Food Map

Photography / A-Xiong, Writing / Xiao Gao & Carrie

Ever tried a “Crazy Beef Burger” with the sweet-salty mix of blueberry and peanut butter??
There’s also Taiwanese and Korean-style hot pot noodles and clam-packed pasta, all served during brunch hours.

On the bustling Chenggong 1st Road in Qianjin District, besides the modern HanShin Department Store, looking out from the street, the first floor is mostly traditional service businesses — clinics, massage parlors, betel nut stands — each staking out their own spot. But there’s one slightly out-of-place shop with a modern industrial-style interior. Though small and seemingly understated, its pink-and-white storefront is unusually eye-catching.

Although named “Mensa Locale Local Eatery,” the menu here offers a variety of international dishes. With dim yellow lighting, wooden walls, stylish high-top tables and chairs, and an array of retro clocks, old and new coexist here in both contrast and harmony. You can eat here from breakfast through to late night — the menu is designed to meet customer needs at any time of day.

With such a pleasant atmosphere, let’s see how the food performs. The menu features egg pancakes, grilled sandwiches, burgers, and — surprisingly — hot pot noodles. Alongside international flavors, it also caters to the tastes of “locals.” Let’s check out these standout menu items.

[Mexican Salsa Cheese Egg Pancake]

Here you’ll find Japanese curry-flavored and Mexican salsa-flavored egg pancakes, both available with added cheese. The pancake batter is handmade by the chef, using a perfect mix of milk, imported Japanese flour, and eggs. The cooked pancake has a faint milky aroma, with slightly crisp edges and a texture balanced between soft and crunchy. The pancake base is truly the key to whether the dish is good or not.

%The batter is made mainly from eggs and flour, often using whipped eggs or egg yolk, aiming to create a richer texture and flavor. Here, however, they avoid simply relying on whipped eggs. Instead, they use a balanced mix of milk and eggs to create a more layered and richly flavored batter. Each bite brings a slight chewiness and umami, while still being fluffy. Sometimes you get a soft texture, other times a hint of crispy crust — it’s a completely new flavor experience. Additionally, you can choose two different toppings after your pancake is done: sunny-side-up eggs or cheese. These two options bring a completely different flavor to the pancake.

[Crazy Beef Burger]

At first glance, this beef burger might not seem all that crazy. But take a big bite and you’ll understand what makes it so wild...

%The patty sits between buns layered with ketchup and thousand island dressing. Who would have thought these condiments could blend together so harmoniously? Not only do they balance each other out, but they also complement the juicy, tender beef and modern ham — it’s truly a burst of flavors you don’t usually expect in a burger.

%This burger is best enjoyed when hot. The meat inside remains juicy, and the taste of the patty reaches another level. The bun is also very special. It’s fluffy yet firm, locking in the juices perfectly. The vegetables add crunch and freshness, while the sweet and savory sauce layers bring out a unique flavor. It’s no wonder this is a favorite among regulars.

[Mexican Salsa Pork Burger]

The pork patty is handmade to ensure elasticity and juiciness, then paired with classic burger ingredients — cheese, tomato slices, and lettuce. Of course, the star supporting role is the signature homemade salsa. As you bite into the juicy meat and melted cheese, the tomato and onion in the salsa balance each other perfectly. Recommended for girls who prefer less greasy meals.

%This burger is juicy without being oily, thanks to the balanced seasoning. The combination of flavors is just right, offering freshness and richness at the same time.

[Seafood Hot Pot Noodles]

In addition to international-flavored egg pancakes and burgers, “Local Eatery” has also thoughtfully introduced hot pot noodles loved by locals in southern Taiwan — and they’ve quickly become a popular item on the menu.

%The base is made with fresh mushrooms, leafy greens, and other vegetables. The vegetables are seasonal and always delivered fresh to maintain the highest quality. The shrimp used is also very fresh, hand-selected each day. The noodles are thick and chewy, made with a premium broth that adds umami to the overall flavor.

%They are generous with the ingredients. The sweet vegetable broth combined with the naturally sweet and fresh seafood creates a flavor that’s no surprise has become a hit.

[Clam Hot Pot Noodles]

This bowl of hot pot noodles is completely dominated by clams, with no other fillers — just pure “clam” flavor. Like the seafood hot pot noodles, it uses a rich bone and vegetable broth, but with the abundance of fresh clams, the sweetness of the soup takes on a different dimension.

%The clams are plump and juicy, and their flavor is distinct. Even without other ingredients, the broth is full of the umami of clams. Though the soup looks plain, the taste is unexpectedly rich and satisfying.

[Homemade Jam Sparkling Drink]

The sparkling drinks here may be truly one of a kind. Every flavor of jam is handmade. Each flavor is also divided into two sweetness levels — one low in sugar and rich in fruit aroma, ideal for spreading on toast, and another higher in fruit sugar for making sparkling drinks.

%Flavors include little orange, apple cinnamon, grapefruit, mango, and “assorted fruit jam.” With vibrant colors and bubbles rising to the top, all are made with no artificial coloring — each jam flavor is intense, and none are overly sweet. They’re a feast for the eyes and a treat for the palate.

%Divination Escape??Wan?/p>

%The joy of dining here lies not just in the time spent, but in the experience. While the primary purpose may be to pass the time, being here allows you to truly unwind and enjoy delicious food. Whether it's a date with your lover or a gathering with friends, come here to relieve stress and savor great meals.

Mensa Locale Local Eatery
Address: No. 244, Chenggong 1st Rd., Qianjin District, Kaohsiung City
Phone: (07)215-9080
Hours: 11:30 – 14:00 / 17:30 – 23:30
Private Rooms: None
Card Payments: Not Accepted
Closed: Tuesdays
Service Charge: None
Seating Capacity: 45 seats
Parking: None
Average Spending: NT$180
Wi-Fi: Available

Kaohsiung Food Map

Author Introduction: Kaohsiung Food Map is run by Ah Xiong and Xiao Gao, who share local southern Taiwanese cuisine and cultural flavors. They also occasionally introduce travel destinations around Taiwan, sampling signature dishes and capturing beautiful scenery to share Taiwan’s food and unique human touch with everyone.

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