The new guide dedicated to the small Asian republic includes no less than 343 establishments, on which awards are raining down: there are 49 to boast three, two or one Michelin distinction (brand new in 10 cases), and there is even an ice cream shop with a tasting menù: Minimal in Taichung.
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A new Michelin guide dedicated to Taiwan is bound to stir up discussion in the Belpaese. Nearly ten thousand kilometers away do not dampen the clamor of a resounding decision: for the first time, an ice cream shop, Minimal in Taichung, is being promoted from Bib gourmand to Michelin starred, by virtue of a tasting consisting of 7 runs, touching on ice creams and slushies.
A decision that could set a resounding precedent in the country where ice cream was born and continues to excel (but street food establishments have already been awarded in Asia, contrary to the old continent, where other rules seem to apply). It must be said that at Minimal, ice cream becomes an authentic dish, in which studied combinations of flavors, temperatures and textures structure the tasting in a way similar to typical creations of research cuisine. The tasting lasts about 2 1/2 hours, also includes a drink and costs 33 euros per person, one of the most affordable prices in the world for “starred dining.” However, one can also order “cold dessert” take-out.
Doing the math on the other awards is the guide's own magazine: there are 343 establishments variously reviewed in the republic, up from 321 in the previous edition, and they are mainly located in Taipei (157), but also in Taichung, Tainan and Kaosiung. Of these 49 achieve a single, double or triple distinction, marking a +44 over 2023. Ten single stars, in particular, are brand new, 7 of them making their absolute debut in the guide; but there are also 6 green stars, awarded for sustainability and commitment to the environment.
"Taiwan is a magnificent island that boasts in abundance ingredients of all kinds and talented chefs. Our selection for 2024 includes more than 50 styles of cuisine from around the world, underscoring the diversity and maturity of Taiwan's culinary scene," commented International Guides Director Gwendal Poullennec. “In particular, it reflects Taiwan's remarkable ability to honor its culinary roots while embracing new trends, showing a harmonious mix of innovation and tradition that sets no boundaries.”
"Our inspectors found that the gastronomic sector in Taiwan is blossoming, with many new openings, no longer confined to small restaurants as before; moreover, fine dining is no longer limited to Western-style cuisine, but embraces Taiwanese and Asian gastronomy in general in a contemporary way. Our inspectors were impressed by the talent of the chefs and the wealth of techniques, creativity and personality present in their gastronomic works."
Other new star recipients include Yuen Jin in Taichung, Gen in Kaohsiung, A, Circum, Eika, Nobuo, and Wok by O'Bond in Taipei. Unchanged are the multiple stars: two for L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Iogy, Molino de Urdaniz, Mudan and Raw; three for JL Studio in Taichung, Le Palais and Taîrroir in Taipei.
