Satisfying Western-style restaurants around Yongkang Park
For when you're in the mood for a bite of something different
Yongkang Street is a famous and lively area in Daan District, mainly known as a great place to go shopping and try classic Taiwanese delicacies — from steamed dumplings and beef noodle soup, to desserts like shaved mango ice.
However, for people craving more Western-style food, there are also a range of satisfying options, from relaxed brunch spots to sit-down dinner options.
Read on for This Is Taipei's picks.
#1: Toasteria
From reliable brunch plates to a fun spot for evening drinks
A mix of London cool and Mediterranean chill, Toasteria is a four-floor space that is bright, stylish, and full of plants.
The first floor has an extensive bar, while the fourth floor has an open kitchen. Seating is varied, with everything from comfy sofas and barstools to standard tables. Visitors can expect a playlist full of 70s and 80s rock and pop too — which adds to the laid-back atmosphere.
When This Is Taipei visited for lunch on a rainy Friday in December, plenty of seats were available. However, it can get busy, especially for weekend brunch, so reservations are recommended.
The menu is extensive, with salads, Spanish-style tapas, shakshuka, pasta, and paninis. We recommend the paninis, particularly the Cubano (NT$385), which comes with a great Greek salad.
Drinks range from teas and coffees to beer, cocktails, and wine, making it a solid place to start a night out, as well as for a chill brunch or a more formal dinner.
It's just a couple of minutes' walk from Dongmen MRT Station or just over five minutes from Daan Forest Park.
#2: Muko Brunch
Tasty dishes and a buzzing vibe in this aesthetically pleasing spot
Despite being located down a quieter alley around a five-minute walk from Yongkang Park, people tend to pour into Muko Brunch as soon as the doors open at 9 AM.
A favorite of those wanting to dazzle on a first date with its hanging plants and floor-to-ceiling windows, the restaurant impresses from the get-go. Better still, the food delivers.
The Avocado Salmon (NT$350) is a hearty pile, not just of avocado and smoked salmon, but also fried mushrooms and eggs, all heaped on a few slices of so-called European bread, dressed with something sweet, nutty, and hard to pin down. Whatever it is, it works.
There are also more adventurous options for the initiated, including Braised Beef in Red Wine (NT$340) and Fried Oyster Curry Chicken (NT$350). Those with a sweet tooth should not skip the Caramel Apple Cinnamon Crepe (NT$240), which is a standout.
The menu is bilingual. Muko Brunch is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
#3: Angel 5 Pizzeria
Classical music meets modern pizza and pasta in this touristy joint
With direct views of Yongkang Park, Angel 5 Pizzeria is another popular option for Western-style dining in the area.
It’s a popular spot with tourists, but there should be space somewhere on ground level or in the basement seating area. The interior is loud and dynamic, with lively classical musical performances raising the volume.
The restaurant is themed around classical music, with photographs of musicians performing overlooking the minimalist tables and chairs. The menu is dominated by pizza and pasta offerings delivered with a modern, clean-cut feel.
The thin base pizzas (from NT$268 to NT$388) aren’t the best in Taipei, but they aren’t bad either for the price point. The one This Is Taipei ordered had a bitey crust and quality ingredients on top. Be warned, however: Its flavor leaned on the sweet side.
The Spaghetti with Garlic Pork Fillet (NT$368) was decent, and the pork medallions were tender and tasty.
As you’d expect, Angel 5 Pizzeria also offers a wide range of coffees, teas, and other drinks, with americanos going for NT$150 and lattes for NT$160. Open from 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM every day of the week.
