There are plenty of supposedly European-style bakeries in Taipei these days, but it is surprising how difficult in can be to get the real thing. Adaptation to local tastes is the norm, but not at Scharzwald Deutsche Spezialitaten, where owner Chiu Yu-shu (
"Many local don't like this taste," said Chiu. "Some even ask if the bread has gone bad." But, as many dishes on the restaurant's menu come with bread, she said that many people are learning to appreciate the distinctive features of German cuisine. "Naturally I choose dishes I think will be popular," Chiu said, "but sometimes if I think a dish is very representative [of a region or style], then I will do it anyway." Chiu said that she is constantly developing the menu, and returns to Germany regularly to learn more about German regional cooking.
One of the most popular sections of the Schwarzwald menu is the Brotmenu, which Chiu said is especially favored by foreign diners. At NT$250 for the jumbo platter -- rolls, jam, sausage, cheese and pickles, it hardly breaks the bank and makes for an ideal brunch.
PHOTO: IAN BARTHOLOMEW
The rolls, which include multigrain, cheese, cumin and sesame-flavored varieties, are also very different from those available at chain store bakeries.
For something more substantial, Scharzwald offers a number of set menus including Eisbein and fillet of beef, but simple is often best, and the Wurstteller, or sausage plate, with five different kinds of sausage and with bread and pickles, is a feast for the budget-conscious.
Afternoon tea is a big event at Schwarzwald, with a selection of three cakes and one beverage for NT$199. "We have about 100 cakes that we make, with about 20 types available each day," Chiu said. Many, such as the rhubarb cake, are not available elsewhere, and are special favorites of homesick Germans and Britons.
Authenticity is also a point of pride, and Chiu said Schwarzwald cakes make few concessions to local tastes. "German cakes are not so beautiful to look at as the Japanese-style ones generally sold, but they taste much better," she said. "We make real Sacchetorte, with marzipan," Chiu said. The cakes display case is no place for weight watchers. Apart from the regular menu, Chiu has a daily blackboard menu which she changes based on ingredients available and the seasons. Warsteiner, Erdinger (hefe, crystal and dark) and Bitburger are available to wash down the food.
Information:
Address: 9, Ln. 6, Yungkang St., Taipei (北市永康街6巷9號) and 20 Wenchou St., Taipei (北市溫州街20號)
Telephone: (02)2392-2447 and (02)2369-3785
Open: 11:30am to 10pm and 11:30am to 9:30pm
Average meal: NT$400
Details: Credit cards not accepted. English and German menu
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