The restaurants below have been classed into four different pricing categories:
$$$$ (over NT$2,000)
$$$ (NT$1,500 to NT$2,000)
$$ (NT$1,000 to NT$1,500)
$ (under NT$1,000)
These prices are for a three-course meal for one, including a half bottle of house wine or equivalent and taxes, but not tip (usually 10%).

Din Tai Fung 
Din Tai Fung has earned an excellent reputation for its juicy steamed dumplings. A hive of activity with an open kitchen where guests can watch deft fingers create these delicious little morsels.
 
149 Hsinyi Road, Section 2
Tel: (02) 2721 7890.
Price: $

Five Dime Driftwood House
Taiwan has its own Antoni Gaudi in the form of artist Hsieh Li-Hsiang, who has created this imaginative and dreamlike restaurant out of sprayed concrete, driftwood and her own clay sculptures. It is, in itself, a work of art reminiscent of the famous Spanish architect. The menu is varied with Chinese, Japanese and Western dishes all with a contemporary edge. The emphasis on presentation is fitting given the surrounds.

8 Lane 32, Neihu Rd. Sec. 1
Tel (02) 8502 5567.
Website: www.five-dime.com.tw
Price: $$-$$$

Food Culture Heaven
One of Taipei's most treasured culinary experiences, where exquisite Taiwanese food - a collaboration of Chinese and Japanese styles - is served within private, dimly lit oriental pavilions set in the stunning national park surrounds. Bookings essential.

160 Lane 101, Chingshan Road,
Tel: (02) 2862 0078.
Price $$$$

Gan Bei (Main branch)
Great Japanese food in an unpretentious atmosphere.

2-1 Lane 25, Nanjing West Road
Tel (02) 2555 6110 or 2776 3460 for reservations.
Price: $

Hu Jiang Yen
Traditional Shanghainese cuisine in a contemporary setting.

108 Da An Road, Section 1
Tel: (02) 2778 9667.
Price: $$