Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Stockholm, Sweden

Black Milk Gastro Bar

Gothenburg, Sweden

Brasserie Draken

Malmö, Sweden

Mutantur

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Kenya Safari

with Great Plains Conservation

in Maasai Mara

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Xitun District

FIRNS offers a unique dining experience that blends French culinary techniques with Taiwanese ingredients, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors. The restaurant's ambiance, featuring natural elements, provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Chef Ricky Lai's background in Michelin-starred establishments contributes to the high quality and creativity of the dishes. The tasting menus, both for lunch and dinner, are thoughtfully curated to showcase seasonal local produce. Guests appreciate the personalized service and the opportunity to explore new culinary sensations.

Discover the unique fusion dining experience at FIRNS in Taichung City Taiwan.

Nestled in the vibrant Xitun District of Taichung City, FIRNS redefines fine dining by blending French culinary mastery with fresh Taiwanese ingredients. This restaurant stands out with its zen-inspired, cozy ambiance, decorated with natural elements like ferns and tree bark, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere perfect for food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

Exceptional tasting menus and innovative flavors

At the heart of FIRNS lies Chef Ricky Lai’s exceptional talent, shaped by experience in prestigious Michelin-starred kitchens worldwide. His carefully crafted tasting menus offer a remarkable fusion of French techniques and Asian flavors, featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients such as Penghu seaweed brioche, red shrimp, and Dong Quan chili sauce. Each dish is thoughtfully plated and paired with either natural wines or house-brewed kombucha, creating a culinary journey that surprises and delights.

What to expect during your visit to FIRNS

Guests praise FIRNS for its warm hospitality and attentive service, where staff carefully explain every course and beverage pairing in both English and Mandarin. The intimate setting invites diners to savor a 9 to 13-course tasting menu that can span several hours, making it perfect for special occasions or memorable nights out. Despite the sophistication, the pricing is considered reasonable for the quality and creativity offered.

 – Cozy and natural ambiance, perfect for intimate dinners.

 – Seasonal tasting menus highlighting local Taiwanese produce.

 – Choices include natural wines and unique house-brewed kombuchas.

 – Required and easily booked online with special accommodations available.

 FIRNS operates Wednesday to Sunday. Dinner is served from 18:00 to 22:00, and lunch is available on Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 15:00.

 Reservations are made through FIRNS’s online booking system. For groups larger than four or private dining, contact firns.booking@gmail.com.

Does FIRNS accommodate dietary restrictions?

 Due to the tasting menu nature, vegetarian, vegan, or seafood-free requests are limited. Please notify at least one day prior for adjustments.

 Nearby Dongxing Parking Tower offers convenient parking options during your visit.

What is the cancellation policy for reservations?

 Cancellations within 48 hours incur a fee of NTD 2,000 per person; no-shows are charged the full menu price.

Community sentiment and what makes FIRNS special

 is celebrated for its innovative fusion of French and Asian cuisines, utilizing the freshest local ingredients. The cozy, nature-infused setting elevates the dining experience, while Chef Ricky Lai’s expert touch and world-class background ensure each dish is a masterpiece. Diners consistently praise the attentive service and the unique, carefully curated tasting menus that provide an unforgettable culinary adventure in Taichung City.

Asia

Taiwan

Nestled in the heart of Taichung City, FIRNS is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey that invites you to experience the essence of fine dining. With its zen-inspired decor and a warm ambiance, this hidden gem on Lane 50, Jingcheng Road, offers an exquisite escape for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. The moment you step inside, the soft lighting and elegant furnishings envelop you, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

FIRNS is renowned for its innovative tasting menu, which features a delightful array of dishes that showcase local Taiwanese ingredients. One standout dish is the succulent lamb, cooked to a perfect 30% doneness, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is both tender and flavorful. Paired with a bold selection of natural wines or house-brewed kombucha, each bite is a celebration of taste and texture.

Another highlight is the Penghu seaweed brioche, a unique twist that combines local flavors with culinary artistry. Each dish is meticulously curated, ensuring that every element on the plate contributes to a harmonious dining experience. The staff's attentive service enhances the meal, as they explain each course and its pairing, making it not just a meal but an educational journey through the flavors of Taiwan.

FIRNS is not just about food; it's an experience. The restaurant prides itself on using seasonal ingredients, ensuring that the menu evolves with the changing seasons. This commitment to freshness is evident in every dish, making each visit a new adventure. The chef, known for his extensive experience in top restaurants worldwide, brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the kitchen.

: Experience new flavors with each visit.

: Carefully selected to enhance your meal.

: A refreshing alternative to traditional beverages.

: FIRNS is celebrated for its innovative tasting menu that highlights local ingredients and unique flavor pairings.

: The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on quality, creativity, and exceptional service.

: FIRNS is conveniently located near several attractions in Taichung, making it an ideal stop for a delightful meal after exploring the city.

Whether you're a local or just visiting Taichung, make sure to stop by FIRNS for an exceptional dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart. Book your table today and discover the culinary delights that await you.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQaW9EZFNREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv1r1syw9aTQRFSYFMiI0akk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQaW9EZFNREAE

Love the cozy setup, warm hospitality and food preparation. Restaurant deco gives off a zen vibe.

Each dish is curated and prepared in high level of quality; and beautifully plated. The doneness of the lamb at 30% is exquisite and succulent.

Wine pairing is quite spot on; with a bold mix of sake as well.

Overall, an enjoyable experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNEa01IZU9REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv1r1syw9aTQRFSYFMiI0akk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNEa01IZU9REAE

A lovely fine dining restaurant in Taichung.
Very beautiful interior with amazing service and of course the exceptional menu.
It was a very enjoyable experience as I had never tried fine dining, the staff were very accommodating and would explain each dish and wine/kombucha pairing in detail. The new seasonal menu was very unique.
Overall a very lovely experience that I wish to share with others when the new menu comes out.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURsbUpySy1nRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv1r1syw9aTQRFSYFMiI0akk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURsbUpySy1nRRAB

An unforgettable experience. We arrived at 6pm and the next 3 hours and the 13 courses were simply delicious entertainment. Price is absolutely fine for what you are presented with. Pairing comes either with wine (a natural wine selection, which was something new) or home made kombucha. The attentive staff explains every course carefully (English as well) and the chef seems to have been in the best restaurants around the world. His experience and ingredients blend well into the menu. I can warmly recommend this (still) secretive spot in Taichung.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNEajRySTRRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv1r1syw9aTQRFSYFMiI0akk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNEajRySTRRRRAB

Went for a birthday dinner. It is a  9 courses tasting menu, plus snacks, brioche. I was stuffed and feeling impressed by the great food and excellent service.

What truly stood out to me was Chef Ricky's brilliant use of Asian and Taiwan local ingredients, skillfully fused into each dish. From the Penghu seaweed brioche to the locally sourced red shrimp and Dong Quan Chili Sauce, every combination was a pleasant surprise, resulting in an exquisite blend of flavors.

I also choose the non-alcohol pairing which is the house brewed Kombucha. The FIRNS team using a variety of fruits and ingredients to brew the kombucha. When pairing with food, it created a new experience that I haven't found in elsewhere. Really suggest adding this option.

The price is very reasonable. Given the stunning food and seamless service I have . It is really worth for the money. I can confidently say that the entire dining experience was nothing short of remarkable. Absolutely will recommend to my friends! I am already looking forward for next chapter of the menu.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2bDdlWExREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJv1r1syw9aTQRFSYFMiI0akk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2bDdlWExREAE

Worth flying over from Hong Kong just to have this. Sophisticated dishes and full of surprises

FIRNS: Exquisite Fine Dining in Xitun District, Taichung

FIRNS is a contemporary French-Asian restaurant in Taichung, Taiwan, helmed by Chef Ricky Lai. Chef Lai, originally from Hong Kong, has honed his skills in prestigious kitchens worldwide, including Michelin three-star restaurants. He established FIRNS to offer a unique dining experience that blends French culinary techniques with Taiwanese ingredients. The restaurant's name, inspired by ferns, symbolizes continual growth and harmony with nature.

Firns Restaurant History and Culinary Journey in Taichung Taiwan 

Nestled in the vibrant Xitun District of Taichung City, Taiwan, FIRNS has quickly risen as a beacon of culinary innovation since its establishment. This contemporary French-Asian restaurant offers an exquisite fusion experience curated by Chef Ricky Lai, whose international expertise brings a sophisticated blend of global techniques and local Taiwanese ingredients to the table.

Founded in 2023 by Chef Ricky Lai, FIRNS embodies a vision that transcends borders. Originally from Hong Kong, Chef Lai sharpened his culinary skills in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, including Michelin three-star establishments. The restaurant’s name, inspired by the delicate and resilient fern, symbolizes continuous growth, renewal, and harmony with nature — qualities that deeply influence the restaurant’s philosophy and culinary creations.

FIRNS opened its doors in Taichung, introducing a fresh and artful fusion of French and Asian cuisines that immediately captivated the local dining scene.

The restaurant earned a prestigious feature in the MICHELIN Guide, celebrating its innovative dining approach and exceptional quality, putting Taichung on the global gastronomic map.

FIRNS is not just a restaurant but a destination for food lovers and trend-conscious travelers seeking a refined and intimate dining adventure. Chef Lai masterfully combines French culinary precision with the vibrant flavors and ingredients native to Taiwan, creating visually stunning and palate-pleasing dishes. The seasonal menus highlight local produce and seafood, paired expertly with natural wines and house-brewed kombucha to elevate every course.

No. 19, Lane 50, Jingcheng Rd, Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan 407.

French and Asian fusion with a focus on local Taiwanese ingredients.

Chef Ricky Lai trained in Michelin 3-star kitchens worldwide, blending world-class culinary techniques with local flavors.

FIRNS is a charming restaurant located in the vibrant Xitun District of Taichung City, Taiwan. It offers a culinary experience that blends traditional Taiwanese flavors with modern artistry, featuring locally sourced ingredients in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

FIRNS

Experience our curated tasting menus and beverage pairings, highlighting the best of seasonal local ingredients and flavors.

Dinner Tasting Menu

Lunch Tasting Menu

Wine Pairing (3 glasses)

Wine Pairing (5 glasses)

Non-Alcoholic Pairing (3 glasses)

Non-Alcoholic Pairing (4 glasses)

Tasting Menus and Pairings

Nestled in the vibrant Xitun District of Taichung City, Firns offers an exceptional fine dining experience that masterfully showcases the essence of seasonal local ingredients. This restaurant captivates discerning food lovers, digital nomads, and travelers seeking sophisticated culinary journeys. The menu, thoughtfully curated by Chef Ricky, reflects an exquisite fusion of Asian and Taiwanese flavors, presented with artistic plating and impeccable attention to detail.

Begin your dining adventure with delicately crafted snacks such as the Penghu seaweed brioche, offering a unique local twist that excites the palate. These starters set the tone for a meal that celebrates freshness and regional authenticity in every bite.

Firns features two exceptional tasting menus — the Lunch Tasting Menu and the Dinner Tasting Menu — each designed to highlight the freshest seasonal local ingredients. These menus present a curated sequence of dishes where every course tells a story of creativity and refinement. The lamb, cooked to a precise 30 percent doneness, stands out for its exquisite succulence and depth of flavor. Expect an evolving celebration of Taiwan’s terroir with dishes seamlessly blending local red shrimp, Dong Quan Chili Sauce, and other regional delicacies.

Conclude your meal with artfully prepared desserts that complement the tasting menus perfectly. The dessert selection at Firns maintains the same standard of quality and local inspiration, ensuring a memorable finish to your dining experience.

Enhance your tasting journey with expertly chosen beverage pairings. Firns offers both wine and non-alcoholic pairing options, thoughtfully selected to elevate each course. The wine pairings feature a bold mix of natural and selected wines served in three or five glass options, while the non-alcoholic pairings highlight house-brewed kombucha made from a variety of fruits and ingredients, offering a refreshing, unique complement to the cuisine.

 showcasing the best of Taiwan’s local ingredients.

 with natural wines and house-brewed kombucha.

 that explains each course and pairing to enhance your culinary experience.

Discover FIRNS in Taichung's Xitun District, where exceptional cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere. Savor every bite - your table awaits!

FIRNS: Top Dining Spot in Taichung Xitun District

Taichung City Municipality

A refined dining experience featuring a selection of dishes crafted from seasonal local ingredients.

A midday culinary journey with dishes highlighting the freshest local produce.

A selection of wines thoughtfully paired to complement the tasting menu.

An extended wine pairing experience with five carefully chosen wines.

A curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages to enhance your meal.

An extended non-alcoholic pairing with four beverages to complement your dining experience.

Discover Firns - Taichung's Premier Fine Dining Experience in Xitun District Taiwan 

Nestled in the vibrant Xitun District of Taichung City, FIRNS redefines the art of fine dining with an exquisite blend of seasonal local ingredients and sophisticated culinary craftsmanship. Located at No. 19, Lane 50, Jingcheng Road, this acclaimed restaurant offers a tranquil zen-inspired ambiance that invites food lovers and connoisseurs on an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

Exquisite tasting menus showcasing local flavors

FIRNS specializes in thoughtfully curated tasting menus designed to highlight the freshest seasonal produce from Taiwan, skillfully fused with Asian influences to create remarkable dishes. Whether you visit for lunch or dinner, the restaurant offers an immersive experience that delights all senses.

 A midday culinary journey priced at 3,280 TWD, featuring dishes that showcase the freshest local produce with creative flair.

 A refined nine-course experience offered at 4,500 TWD, where each dish is elegantly plated and masterfully prepared to impress even the most discerning palates.

 Choose from expertly matched wine pairings (3 or 5 glasses) or innovative non-alcoholic pairings featuring house-brewed kombucha and other unique beverages to elevate your meal.

Beyond the exceptional food, FIRNS impresses with its cozy yet sophisticated setup that exudes a calming zen vibe. Each dish benefits from the chef's global experience and a passion for local ingredients including Penghu seaweed and Dong Quan chili sauce. The attentive staff enhances your visit by explaining each course and pairing option in detail, ensuring a personalized and memorable dining experience.

FIRNS welcomes guests for lunch and dinner with reservation strongly recommended to secure your seat at this intimate dining venue. The restaurant offers a full dining experience with restroom facilities and multiple payment options including credit cards and NFC payments. While it is not suitable for children, it is the perfect destination for couples, foodies, and travelers seeking a refined culinary adventure in Taichung.

District

Experience FIRNS, a premier French-Asian restaurant in Xitun District, Taichung. Savor innovative dishes, seasonal ingredients, and exceptional service.

FIRNS Taichung - Luxury French-Asian Dining Experience

Discover FIRNS in Taichung for a unique fusion cuisine dining experience. Enjoy seasonal menus, wine and non-alcoholic pairings, and a cozy atmosphere.

Explore FIRNS Taichung - Fine Dining with Local Flavors

Learn about FIRNS, a top-rated restaurant in Taichung blending French techniques and Taiwanese ingredients, led by Chef Ricky Lai, with a focus on sustainability and quality.

FIRNS: Exquisite Fine Dining in Xitun District, Taichung

Dining & Culinary Delights

Signature Highlights

FAQs

Visit us today!

VARMT (West)

Torien Yakitori

水森水產