VIBE

This Japanese chainlet of Italian restaurants has developed a devoted following thanks to its thin crust pizzas and fusion pasta dishes (we are partial to the uni (or sea urchin) spaghetti!). The bright, open space has an upscale caffe ambiance, with an open kitchen and pizza-making station, contemporary art on the walls, and smooth jazz on the stereo.

CROWD

A well-dressed mix of locals, expats, and families. It draws a business crowd for lunch.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

A relaxed upscale casual look, like jeans, cashmere pullover, and flats.

GO HERE WITH

Clients or colleagues; friends; family; date

WHY WE LIKE IT

The relaxed yet chic vibe is great, especially if we’re having an informal business lunch or fun family dinner (with kids). The food is delish too, especially those thin crust pizzas.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Service can be a tad brusque.

GOOD TO KNOW

We’ve tried several different locations of Bellini around Taipei, and we liked them all. Last orders are taken at 9:30pm Sunday through Thursday and at 10:00pm Friday and Saturday. If you have a larger party, the private room between the front and back main rooms (with sliding doors for additional privacy) seats 15-20.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Breeze Center, SongShan District (Taipei); Taipei Main Station, ZhongZheng District (Taipei); XinYi District (Taipei); Q Square, DaTong District (Taipei); various locations throughout Japan

CLOSEST COMPS

Beata té (Taipei); Metro Café (Beijing); Otto (New York)