Haili: A French Monologue by Kaohsiung Harbor (Kaohsiung 1 Star)
Combining Japanese delicacy with French techniques. In front of the open kitchen, watch how the chef uses local ingredients to tell the story of Kaohsiung.
TL;DR / Quick Summary
Combining Japanese delicacy with French techniques. In front of the open kitchen, watch how the chef uses local ingredients to tell the story of Kaohsiung.
Kaohsiung's Fine Dining scene has been booming in recent years, and Haili is definitely one of the standouts. Chef William, who previously honed his skills at Taipei's logy and RAW, brought his exquisite superb techniques back to the south, perfectly combining Kaohsiung's passion with French elegance.
1. Concept: The Poetry of Local Ingredients
Haili emphasizes the use of local ingredients from southern Taiwan.
- Sweet Fish (香魚): The chef is adept at handling fresh fish. A dish of fried sweet fish might be paired with a sauce made from Kaohsiung's specialty tropical fruits, using the sweet and sour flavors to highlight the delicacy of the fish.
- Duck and Mulberry: Duck meat from Pingtung, paired with mulberries commonly found in the south. The intertwining of the smoky aroma and the fruit's acidity reveals the depth of the local terroir.
2. Space: A Theatrical Experience
The restaurant features open-kitchen counter (Itamae) seating. Diners can closely observe the cooking process of the chef and his team. This is not showing off; it is a kind of honest presentation. You can see how the ingredients are treated, how the sauces are blended; every step is full of a sense of ritual.
3. Real User Insights
Gourmet's Notes:
- CP Value (Cost-Performance): Compared to starred restaurants in Taipei, Haili's pricing is very approachable, yet the standard of the cuisine is not inferior to famous restaurants in the north at all.
- Wine Pairing: The Pairing here is very thoughtful. The sommelier will select some interesting natural wines or sakes to echo the hot climate of the south.
4. Practical Information
- Location: 2nd Floor, No. 264-1, Chenggong 1st Road, Qianjin District, Kaohsiung City.
- Surroundings: Close to the Kaohsiung Hanshin Department Store shopping district, with convenient transportation.
Returning to Taipei, are you ready for an impromptu performance full of surprises? Impromptu by Paul Lee is waiting for you.
