When I first heard about Cres-Art Philippine Cuisine in Taipei, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve tried a few places that claimed to serve Filipino food, but many didn’t hit the mark. Either the flavors were adjusted for Taiwanese taste or it just didn’t feel like home.
But Cres-Art? It’s different. Now I know why so many Filipinos connect with their fellow kababayan here, whether just for a weekend catch-up or even for special occasions, when cooking at home can be skipped.
A Familiar Landmark for Filipinos
Tucked near St. Christopher’s Church, it’s a landmark for most Filipinos in Taipei. One Sunday after Mass, I finally dropped by—and the moment I stepped in, I was hit by the unmistakable smell of garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, and fried food. The trays of adobo, sinigang, kare-kare, lechon kawali, and pancit canton brought me right back to the Philippines.
Atmosphere and Vibe
The vibe? Think carinderia. Plastic chairs, formica tables, a Santo Niño altar in the corner, twinkling lights hanging above—even in June. Tagalog chatter filled the room, music played in the background, and Nanay Imelda, the owner, greeted each guest like family.
Authentic Filipino Flavors
One time, when we ordered for a group celebration, the food came in generous, well-packed trays—good enough for a barkada-style feast. The star of the table was the inihaw na isda—crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful inside, with a tangy sawsawan that brought everything together. The pancit palabok was vibrant and loaded with toppings: eggs, chicharon, green onions, and calamansi. It tasted like something you’d find at a fiesta back home.
The BBQ pork skewers were tender, sweet-savory, and perfectly grilled. Each bite reminded me of those smoky street-side ihaw stalls we’d line up at after school. The lumpiang shanghai came crispy and packed with meat—not the usual mostly-wrapper kind. And the bistek? Soft beef cuts soaked in toyo-calamansi sauce, topped with just the right amount of onions.
This was comfort food through and through. Familiar, flavorful, and clearly made with care. If you’re planning a small get-together or just want to treat yourself, I’d definitely say go for the party trays. They deliver both in taste and value.
Price and Value
Prices? Not the cheapest—meals range from NT$150–180 (around PHP 270–330). But for that taste of home? Sulit. It’s comfort food done right. And if you come with friends and share a few dishes, it goes a long way.
Tips Before You Visit
It does get busy, especially Sundays after church, so expect some waiting. But you won’t mind. You’ll end up chatting with strangers, swapping OFW stories, or just soaking in the familiar noise of a place that feels like it was plucked straight from Manila.
A Deeper Look: Featured by Ming Chuan University
If you want to learn more about Cres-Art’s story, I highly recommend watching this video feature by the Ming Chuan University USR team. It offers a beautiful look into Nanay Imelda’s journey and her passion for preserving Filipino culinary heritage in Taiwan. It’s not just about the food—it’s about sharing our culture with others, and the video captures that perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Cres-Art isn’t just about the food. It’s about belonging. It’s about stepping off a street in Taipei and, for a moment, feeling like you’re back in the Philippines.
And honestly? That’s worth every bite.
Contact Information
Address: No. 17號, Lane 43, Shuangcheng St, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 104
Contact Number: +886225966713
Google Map Location: