With the growth of cheap and convenient food delivery apps, more and more people are choosing to take out rather than eat in. But as a recent investigation in Kaohsiung has shown, the glossy photos you see online mask quite a different reality.
The restaurant’s food delivery site boasts an array of delicious dishes. But appearances can be deceiving. Because this Kaohsiung food joint is actually run from a builder’s workshop. It’s a Spartan set-up. No sign, no tables, just a room full of tools with a kitchen in the back.
A local resident noticed delivery drivers coming and going and called authorities. She says she would have nothing against it if they were simply cooking for themselves.
Locals are worried about hygiene and fear the chef may not be qualified. RTI called the owner to enquire but got no answer.
Kaohsiung Food Safety chief Tsai Chih-jen says he has found nothing illegal. He says, however, that he has made several recommendations. Those include adding a temperature control to the fridge and making sure food is covered.
Meanwhile, this small alley in Changhua County is home to three takeout restaurants. Locals say the delivery drivers make a lot of noise. And a visit from authorities was enough to send one shop owner packing. He says his restaurant is completely legal, but now he has to find a new place for it.
The Health Ministry says it will carry out random inspections of takeout restaurants to give customers everywhere a little peace of mind.