Baan (Thai Cuisine)
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About
Baan, which means 'home' in Thai, is the Taipei outpost of Chef Ton’s Michelin-starred restaurant in Bangkok. The restaurant focuses on 'soul food' recipes passed down through the chef's family, emphasizing bold, uncompromising spice levels and authentic ingredients. The interior is modern, sleek, and dimly lit, creating a sophisticated backdrop for the vibrant food. The sensory experience is a fiery and aromatic journey through authentic Thai herbs and pastes. Expert recommendation: The dry red curry with pork and the signature deep-fried sea bass are exceptional. Pro tip: Be prepared for the heat—when they say 'Thai spicy,' they mean it. It is located in the trendy Da'an district, surrounded by upscale bars, making it a perfect spot for a high-end dinner before a night out.
Highlights
- Authentic Thai home cooking
- Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient
- Modern chic interior design
- Created by Chef Ton
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Mume
Mume (the Latin name for the plum blossom) is a Michelin-starred destination that focuses on exploring the diversity of Taiwan's local ingredients through modern European culinary techniques. The interior is dark, moody, and chic, providing an intimate backdrop for the innovative plating. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet unstuffy. The sensory experience is a series of surprising textures and bold flavors that showcase the chef's Nordic-influenced precision. Expert recommendation: The 'Beef Tartare' with clam emulsion is a signature that perfectly encapsulates their fusion style. Pro tip: Like RAW, Mume is incredibly difficult to book. Reservations are only taken online. It’s an ideal choice for foodies looking for the cutting edge of Taipei’s 'New Taiwanese' food movement.
Shin Yeh Japanese Buffet
Shin Yeh is one of Taipei's most respected buffet brands, offering a massive and high-quality selection of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant features live sashimi stations, tempura bars, and a wide array of grilled dishes and desserts. The atmosphere is elegant, spacious, and perfect for large gatherings. The sensory experience is a cornucopia of Japanese flavors, from the fresh catch of the day to delicate wagashi sweets. Expert recommendation: Head straight for the sashimi counter for the freshest cuts of tuna and salmon. Pro tip: Reservations are essential weeks in advance for weekend slots. They offer different pricing for lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner; the afternoon tea is a great 'budget' way to enjoy the high-quality spread.
VVG Something
Once named by Flavorwire as one of the world's 20 most beautiful bookstores, VVG Something is a tiny, enchanted space filled with art books, vintage trinkets, and antique kitchenware. Tucked away in a quiet alley of the busy Eastern District, it feels like an old European curiosity shop hidden in Asia. The atmosphere is quiet, intimate, and deeply aesthetic. The sensory experience is tactile and visual, inviting you to touch the textured paper of rare books and admire the curated clutter. Expert recommendation: Order a hand-brewed coffee and a piece of their homemade cake to enjoy while browsing the eclectic collection. Pro tip: The 'VVG' (Very Very Good) group has several themed spaces in this alley; explore the nearby VVG Bistro for a full meal. Photography is encouraged but should be done respectfully due to the small space.
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
This majestic memorial was built in 1972 to honor Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of the Republic of China. The architecture is a stunning example of modern Chinese style, featuring a sweeping golden-tiled roof inspired by traditional palace design. The hall is set within a large park that offers one of the best unobstructed ground-level views of Taipei 101. The sensory experience is defined by the solemnity of the grand entrance hall and the rhythmic precision of the honor guard. Expert recommendation: The changing of the guard ceremony occurs every hour on the dot; it is less crowded here than at CKS Memorial Hall. Pro tip: The surrounding gardens are a popular spot for locals to fly kites or practice group dancing in the early morning. It is an excellent place for photography during the 'blue hour' when the building and Taipei 101 are both illuminated.
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