Collision of history and European cuisine at Tainan Mayor’s Residence – Grand opening under century-old trees on April 10

▲ Exterior of Pasticceria La Scatola at Tainan Mayor’s Residence. (Photo provided by Pasticceria La Scatola, same below)

▲ Interior of Pasticceria La Scatola at Tainan Mayor’s Residence.

Reporter Li Zi Yi / Comprehensive report

Covering a total area of about 791 pyeongTainan Mayor’s Residencehas seen five mayors since its construction in 1974. Only one of them lived here, and it was rarely used in everyday life, serving mostly as a venue for receiving VIPs and holding gatherings. Current Mayor Lai Qingde opened the site for public bidding in 2014, entrusting it to Pasticceria La Scatola International Catering Group. After major renovations, the once refined and classic Western-style residence has been reborn as an Italian-French restaurant and bakery. It was unveiled on the 9th and officially launched operations on April 10.

The residence houses over 10 large trees, including magnolia and trumpet trees over a hundred years old, as well as chinaberry and podocarpus planted after the Retrocession, which are now over 70 years old. In spring, they bloom delicate purple flowers and fill the air with fragrant scents that waft for miles, adding a touch of spring to the renovated historic building while subtly revealing indelible historical imprints.

▲ Exterior of the old Tainan Mayor’s Residence before renovation. (Photo / Screenshot fromPasticceria La Scatola at Tainan Mayor’s Residenceofficial Facebook page)

The founder of Pasticceria La Scatola is also from Tainan, who returned to his hometown to operate the restaurant and bakery here. He uses local ingredients to create refined French cuisine, handmade Italian pasta, and pizza, which subtly blend with Tainan’s traditional rustic charm. Meanwhile, the adjacent bakery is built from a shipping container, and the warmth of freshly baked bread adds a cozy touch amidst the greenery.

The spacious outdoor area features multiple seating areas, offering a picnic-like atmosphere whether you’re sitting or standing. In addition to dining, this expansive space is also ideal for art and cultural performances. Against the rich historical backdrop of Tainan, the unique local culture and art continue to grow alongside the century-old trees.

Pasticceria La Scatola at Tainan Mayor’s Residence
Address: No. 239, Nanmen Road, West Central District, Tainan City
Phone: (06)213-6909