Don Shang He Shi: A Hidden Gem for Sushi and Donburi Lovers in Taipei City, Taiwan's Zhongshan District.

Nestled beneath the bustling streets of Taipei's Zhongshan District, Don Shang He Shi offers an authentic Japanese culinary experience that draws in foodies and digital nomads alike. This colorful, self-service restaurant specializes in donburi — sumptuous rice bowls topped with fresh sashimi — alongside sushi and other Japanese specialties, making it a paradise for seafood lovers seeking fresh, generous portions and vibrant flavors.

Exceptional dishes and unique dining experience at Don Shang He Shi

The highlight here is the incredible freshness of the seafood. Signature dishes like the Salmon & Roe Volcano donburi showcase delicate layers of raw salmon, salmon roe, tuna, and shrimp roe, served atop perfectly seasoned rice. Foodies rave about the harmony of flavors, especially when mixing in the raw egg, which tenderly coats the bowl's ingredients. The seared scallop and raw shrimp rice bowl is another crowd favorite, generously portioned and garnished with wasabi and shredded white radish for added zest.

Beyond the main courses, Don Shang He Shi offers unlimited self-service miso soup and barley tea, enhancing the dining experience with warm, comforting flavors crafted from seafood trimmings and refreshing barley. The restaurant’s colorful, traditional Japanese-style décor creates an inviting ambiance, perfect for both casual meals and group dining.

Practical tips and accessibility

Don Shang He Shi is located in the basement (B1) of a building on Section 2, Nanjing East Road. Note that the Google map might mislead you; the best way to find the entrance is to spot the stairs across the street leading down to the restaurant. While there is an elevator, it is currently blocked and unusable, so be prepared for stairs — this might be a consideration for those with mobility challenges.

Important to know: Don Shang He Shi operates on a cash-only basis and requires a minimum consumption of NT$200 per person. To avoid disappointment, especially on weekends, reservations are highly recommended.

Does Don Shang He Shi accept credit cards? No, it is a cash-only restaurant.
What are the operating hours? Open daily from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, with Sunday lunch service from 11:00 AM to 2:15 PM.
Is reservation required? Reservations are recommended especially during weekends due to high popularity.

Community sentiment and final thoughts

The overall community sentiment around Don Shang He Shi is distinctly positive. Patrons consistently commend the freshness and generous portions of the seafood, with dishes like the Salmon & Roe Volcano donburi described as some of the most authentic and delicious in Taipei. The self-service miso soup and barley tea corner add a welcoming touch, making diners feel right at home. While some note the cash-only policy and the minimum spend requirement as minor inconveniences, these are easily outweighed by the quality of food and vibrant dining atmosphere.

Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a traveler craving authentic Japanese donburi in Taipei, Don Shang He Shi is a must-visit destination to satisfy your seafood cravings in Zhongshan District's vibrant food scene.

The History of Don Shang He Shi in Taipei City Taiwan's Culinary Scene.

Don Shang He Shi, also known as Jing Shang He Shi, is a hidden gem situated in the bustling Zhongshan District of Taipei City. Found in the basement of a building along Section 2, Nanjing East Road, this Japanese restaurant has made a name for itself through its commitment to offering fresh seafood and authentic Japanese cuisine, particularly renowned for its sashimi and donburi rice bowls. The restaurant's popularity has soared over the years, attracting both locals and visitors searching for a delightful dining experience without breaking the bank.

Timeline of Key Events in the Restaurant's History

2016: Don Shang He Shi opened its doors in Taipei's Zhongshan District, quickly gaining a reputation for its fresh seafood and authentic Japanese dishes.
2017: The restaurant expanded its offerings, introducing new donburi rice bowls and sashimi selections to cater to a wider audience.
2018: Don Shang He Shi became a popular dining spot, attracting both locals and tourists seeking quality Japanese cuisine at reasonable prices.
2019: The restaurant introduced self-service miso soup and barley tea, enhancing the dining experience for patrons.
2020: Don Shang He Shi continued to maintain its reputation for fresh seafood and authentic Japanese flavors, solidifying its position as a top dining destination in Taipei.

Through its journey from a new establishment to a beloved dining spot, Don Shang He Shi exemplifies the essence of Japanese dining in Taipei. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler exploring Taiwan's culinary scene, this restaurant promises a satisfying experience marked by quality ingredients and authentic flavors.

Don Shang He Shi at a glance

Located in the basement of a bustling building in Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Don Shang He Shi is a vibrant self-service restaurant specializing in authentic Japanese cuisine. Known for its fresh seafood offerings, including donburi and sushi, this establishment has garnered attention for its generous portions and reasonable prices. With a colorful decor that reflects traditional Japanese aesthetics, it provides a unique dining experience that appeals to both locals and visitors.

Don Shang He Shi has become a go-to spot for sushi lovers, particularly for its Salmon & Roe Volcano rice bowl, which is highly praised for its freshness and authentic flavors. The restaurant's self-service miso soup and barley tea add to the overall experience, making it a delightful stop for those seeking quality Japanese fare.

However, be prepared for a few quirks, including a cash-only payment policy and limited dining time. Overall, Don Shang He Shi offers a unique culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable.

Pros

Fresh seafood
Generous portions
Authentic Japanese flavors
Self-service miso soup and barley tea
Reasonable prices

Cons

Cash-only payment
Dining time limit
Impersonal service
No individual fish selection

Ideal for

Don Shang He Shi is perfect for casual dining, families, and sushi enthusiasts looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. Its self-service model makes it a convenient choice for those on the go.

Things to know before visiting

Before heading to Don Shang He Shi, be aware that it operates on a cash-only basis and has a minimum charge of NT$200. The dining time is limited to 70 minutes, so plan accordingly. The restaurant is located in the basement, so be prepared to navigate stairs, although an elevator is available but often blocked.

Overall impression

In conclusion, Don Shang He Shi offers a delightful dining experience with its fresh seafood and authentic flavors. While it has its drawbacks, such as cash-only payments and limited service, the overall quality of food and reasonable prices make it a worthy destination for sushi lovers in Taipei.

Don Shang He Shi: A Hidden Japanese Culinary Gem in Taipei's Zhongshan District.

Nestled beneath the bustling streets of Taipei's Zhongshan District, Don Shang He Shi offers a vibrant and authentic Japanese dining experience that's a feast for both the eyes and palate. Located on the basement level at B1, No. 140 Section 2, Nanjing East Road, this colorful self-service restaurant is a sanctuary for sashimi donburi lovers seeking fresh, expertly crafted seafood bowls and more.

Signature Dishes and Flavors

Don Shang He Shi is renowned for its fresh and sumptuous donburi—Japanese rice bowls topped with an array of seafood delights. One must-try is the Salmon & Roe Volcano, a deluxe rice bowl featuring the freshest salmon, salmon roe, and a medley of tuna and shrimp roe. The dish is expertly balanced with a raw egg, which enhances the rice’s flavor and adds a silky texture. This bowl is perfect for salmon enthusiasts craving an authentic and indulgent taste of Japan right in Taipei.

Beyond donburi, the menu also boasts grilled seafood, skewers, and specialty items like jumbo-sized shrimp and seared scallops adorned with salmon and shrimp roe. For those seeking variety, the restaurant serves popular Japanese delicacies such as sashimi and even prized king crab, available for both dine-in and takeout.

Beverages and Extras

To complement your meal, Don Shang He Shi offers unlimited self-service miso soup and barley tea at no additional cost. The miso soup is a standout, simmered for two hours with fresh fish bones and trimmings, imparting a rich, savory depth that perfectly balances the fresh seafood dishes. Additionally, the drink menu includes flavorful options like white grape smoothies and Japanese Ramune soda, along with classic soft drinks priced affordably.

Unlimited Miso Soup: Self-service miso soup made with fresh fish bones simmered for two hours, delivering an umami-rich broth loaded with fish scraps for enhanced flavor.
Unlimited Barley Tea: A refreshing self-serve beverage option that cleanses the palate and pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of seafood.

Dining Experience and Practical Tips

Situated in a basement setting, Don Shang He Shi can be a little tricky to locate—be sure to cross the street and find the stairs leading down, as some maps may mislead. Inside, the atmosphere is lively and colorful, decorated with traditional Japanese elements that create an inviting and vibrant ambiance.

While the restaurant features a self-service style for drinks and miso soup, and minimal table service, this setup encourages a casual, communal vibe ideal for groups and families. Note that seating includes stairs access only, which may pose challenges for guests with mobility concerns. Payment is cash-only, with a minimum charge, and dining time is generally limited to 70 minutes to keep the flow smooth during busy hours.

Location: B1, No. 140 Section 2, Nanjing East Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Payment: Cash only, with a 10% service charge included. Minimum spend applies.
Accessibility: Access via stairs; elevator exists but may be blocked, so consider if mobility is an issue.
Ordering: Scan the QR code at your table to place orders easily and efficiently.

Why Don Shang He Shi Stands Out

Don Shang He Shi is more than just a sushi restaurant — it’s a destination for Japanese food lovers in Taipei craving freshness, generous portions, and a bustling local vibe. Its unique blend of self-service convenience, unlimited quality miso soup, and vibrant décor sets it apart in a city abundant with seafood eateries. Whether you're craving a deluxe salmon donburi or want to experience authentic flavors paired with cozy, casual dining, this spot is a must-visit.

Insider tip: Try to visit during off-peak hours to enjoy a relaxing meal, as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly due to its popularity.

Perfect for Groups and Families

With its generous portions and casual atmosphere, Don Shang He Shi is ideal for groups and families looking to share a flavorful Japanese meal. The restaurant welcomes children, making it a great choice for a family outing to savor sashimi, grilled seafood, and hearty rice bowls together.

Explore Taipei’s Japanese culinary scene by diving into Don Shang He Shi’s fresh, colorful, and satisfying menu — where tradition meets casual dining and every bowl is a celebration of seafood excellence.