The Qing Lou Chinese Restaurant and Bar is located on Section 4 of Ba De Road, near the bustling Raohe Street Night Market. It takes about ten minutes to walk from Songshan MRT Station.
The interior is mainly decorated with classical Chinese elements, featuring intricately carved wooden doors, lantern chandeliers, and red brick walls that create a rich Eastern ambiance. The entrance's design is thoughtful and brings a smile to visitors.
Today, we enjoyed spicy boiled beef from Sichuan, Singapore chili soft-shell crab, amaranth with century egg and salted egg, truffle seafood fried rice, and the "Dragon and Phoenix Dance," totaling 2772 TWD.
Spicy Boiled Beef from Sichuan:
The surface is covered with lots of dried chilies and Sichuan pepper, looking quite imposing. The beef slices are cooked tender and soaked with bean sprouts in a thick and spicy broth. It has a moderate spice level and is quite enjoyable.
Singapore Chili Soft-Shell Crab:
The golden, crispy soft-shell crab has a fragrant outer layer and tender meat inside. Paired with a mildly spicy sauce and tender egg, it enhances the richness of the dish. It’s served on a bed of fried buns that soak up the sauce, adding more depth. Initially, I thought the price of 580 TWD for two crabs was a bit high, but after seeing the size of the crabs, I felt it was worth every penny.
Amaranth with Century Egg and Salted Egg:
The amaranth is cooked quite tenderly, with century and salted eggs blended in, making the flavor more intense. It has a fresh sweetness with a hint of saltiness, serving as a nice relief amidst the stronger flavor dishes.
Truffle Seafood Fried Rice:
The rice is distinct and fragrant with a rich truffle aroma, complemented by shrimp and scallops that add freshness and a chewy texture. Topped with what seems to be sakura shrimp, it brings another layer of flavor.
Dragon and Phoenix Dance:
The presentation is extravagant, featuring a uniquely shaped liquor jug and a decorative cup, with roasted rosemary and a slice of dried pineapple placed inside the cup. The liquor is a light yellow color, very refreshing, with flavors of lime and various fruits, not overly sweet—quite suitable for ladies wanting to order this cocktail.
Overall, this is a Chinese restaurant and bar with solid dishes and cocktails. The prices are fairly standard for a restaurant-bar, with large portion sizes, making it a good value. I originally wanted to order a soup, but the staff informed me that the soups are served in large bowls meant for about eight people. Next time, I’ll have to bring more friends to enjoy it together.
Highly recommend it to everyone!