March 2025 Community Spotlight: Grace Kennedy

Welcome to the March 2025 Community Spotlight!

Photo courtesy of Grace Kennedy

I’m Grace Kennedy, originally from Glasgow, Scotland. I’ve been living in Taiwan since August 2012, when I came here to work at the European School as the head of Special Needs.

My husband, Paul, still works there, and over the years, our family has grown, so we now have a little clan of Kennedys here, including grandchildren and even a great-grandson! I’ve recently retired from the European School and am loving this new chapter, meeting new people and exploring new interests.

  What’s one restaurant in Taipei you’d recommend that everyone should experience at least once?

If you’re looking for a fantastic restaurant in Taipei, I highly recommend The Spice Shop in Tianmu. It’s a family favorite for Indian food with a twist. Honestly, it’s the best Indian food I’ve ever tasted, and their appetizers are to die for! We often go there for family celebrations and when we have visitors from Scotland. They’ve recently moved to new premises on Tianmu East Rd, which I’m excited to check out soon. 

The Spice Shop is located in Tianmu, Taipei.
The Spice Shop's Pani Puri.
The Spice Shop's Chicken Tandoori.

 Do you have a go-to comfort food spot in Taipei that you absolutely love?

For a comforting and affordable meal, I love Saizeriya. They have branches all over Taiwan, and their pizza and ice cream are my go-to choices–though not usually together!  

Saizeriya has branches throughout Taiwan.
Saizeriya's seafood pizza.

What’s a hidden gem in Taiwan—a place or activity—that you think foreigners should know about?

My personal hidden gem in Taiwan is Taroko Gorge. Coming from Scotland, a country known for its beautiful scenery, I’m still blown away by Taroko every time I visit. The geography there is constantly changing because of the typhoons and earthquakes, which makes it even more fascinating. It’s located near Hualien, which is another place I really enjoy. If you’re in the area, definitely try Salt Lick Smokehouse & Grill–amazing! 

Salt Lick Smokehouse & Grill is located in Hualien.
Salt Lick's BBQ platter.

What piece of advice would you give to someone new to living in Taiwan?

My biggest piece of advice for anyone new to living in Taiwan? Learn the language! I know very little Chinese, and I feel like I’m missing out on so much by not being able to fully participate in conversations and activities. Don’t make the same mistake I did!  

🗺 Locations Mentioned:

after a soccer game at the park

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