Some interesting reviews on here. We had a good experience if you take into account what to expect (e.g., crowded space, might have to share a large table with another party, etc.). The food was very good and they had many Taiwanese staples that were solid. Would recommend and go back for them!
Service was good and food came out fast, but flavors were pretty bland. We had mostly late-night appetizers, but none of them were outstanding. Dumpling dough had no taste - it seemed entirely lacking in salt or MSG - and the fillings only slightly more. The food was cooked well - that is, to the correct temperature - and the dumplings were wrapped attractively. It was all just adequate and good for drunken snacking (it's one of the few Chinatown places thankfully open very late - until 1AM, which is why we chose it), but the food is missing something essential.The servers were nice and the place was clean, but honestly, I probably would not go back with so many other exciting Chinatown eateries within a stone's throw.
As a Taiwanese I have to say the restaurant is underwhelming and much more pricey than what you get from other Asian restaurants. The food itself was delicious, we tried some fried tofu, Taiwanese fried chicken, Chinese zucchini stirred fry with garlic - which was something I haven’t had for ages and I was grateful for it. The service was good but the price we paid didn’t reflect the whole dining experience and quality.
If a Chinese restaurant has mediocre reviews on Yelp, you know they're gonna be GREAT. That's because people overinflate their reviews based on decor and service but don't seem to have any taste buds.Taiwan cafe continues to serve excellent no frills, tasty Chinese food. You must get the white fish in spicy broth. It comes with flame underneath keeping it boiling and nice and hot and they don't drown it in hundreds of red peppers like some other restaurant (meaning this dish has less mess and more food).If you don't like fish, try the same dish with Beef or Lamb. But fish is my favorite because of how light it feels and how tasty the chili broth and napa cabbage gets.
The soup dumplings and lunch combo with hot & sour soup and mapo tofu with rice were hearty and delicious.Must try: Their soup dumplings were steaming hot and tasted great, skin is still thick but thinner than other places.Note: They include gratuity of 18% in the bill so don’t be too surprised, it’s fair but it can be unexpected to many.
Every dish was very good. The soup dumpling however wasn't as good as gourmet dumping house next door because the dough was thick on the top and the meat ratio was off but nonetheless not bad compared to a lot of places.
Soup dumplings were so fresh and so soupy inside, packed with fresh pork and ginger notes. Veggies and noodles were crispy and fresh and the salt and pepper spicy chicken wings , although not spicy at all, where tender, juicy and full of Taiwanese flavor. I couldn’t recommend a more satisfying , filling and flavorful lunch in the heart of China town. 10/10 will be back without a question of a doubt. Muhhha ?
We had a mixed vegetable dish + too many delicious ? soup dumplings!! They were much larger than we’re used to. Flavorful broth. All around a delight to visit. We would highly recommend!
One of the better tasting restaurants in Chinatown. Ordered the pork belly, braised duck and friend rice. Food was delicious although very oily. Quick service.
Really affordable and well valued meals! My favorite things to order are the soup dumplings and also the fried pork chop plate which comes with so many things!?They are open late?