Sincere flavors from trendy new shops — must-try desserts in the old town for dessert lovers

Text & photos / Kaohsiung City Government Information Bureau
 
The bright, minimalist white space, featuring a popular Muji-style design, stands out sharply against the historic backdrop of the Yancheng First Public Market; next door, a shop with a striking red metal shutter door is adorned with vintage metal signs, exuding a highly individualistic retro American aesthetic. Annie and Ah Wei, one selling desserts and the other noodles, help and greet each other during downtime, offering a taste of the familiar warmth found in old markets.

A new market life for Gen Z
Annie and Ah Wei both opened their shops in the market last March, and will soon celebrate their first anniversary. Members of Gen Z, neither had any prior connection to traditional markets, having previously run street stalls. They were simply strolling around the Dagouding area when they spotted rental signs on the storefronts, which inspired their dream of opening a shop. “I decided on the spot without overthinking,” said Ah Wei.

Compared to the market’s long-standing older shops, Annie’s “Chatting Sweet Room” and Ah Wei’s “Foodie Feast Room” are often playfully referred to by veteran vendors as the “A-Pu Market” (note: a market that only opens in the afternoon). Chatting Sweet Room opens at 3 PM, while Foodie Feast Room starts at 6 PM. As their signs light up, they welcome people into a cozy late-night dining community.

Chatting Sweet Room brings a Muji-inspired vibe

True to its name, Chatting Sweet Room radiates a fresh, small-life aesthetic. The space, dominated by white and spanning just about 2 pyeong (approximately 6.6 square meters), resembles a dessert box. Through the open window, you can always see Annie’s beaming, happy expression — much like the joy that desserts bring. Annie said she initially envisioned the shop as an evolved version of a street stall. Compared to her past mobile setup, which was limited to a single table, this space feels more than enough.

A small mountain of Green Tea Fresh Milk Rolls in the mini fridge, German sausage and bacon savory pies on the counter, and Earl Grey Pound Cake — all are irresistible temptations for dessert enthusiasts. Her desserts not only convey her passion for sweets and dedication to handmade quality, but she also hopes that enjoying them in the shop can become a way to connect emotionally and start casual conversations.