Start every day with an extra generous breakfast — the rustic charm of the "Denroku" brunch

Text & photos /Kui Xiaosun

I believe those who know a bit about Taichung’s brunch scene are aware of two names that each have their own distinct standards and charm: 【Denroku】 and 【Mokaku】. The reason I say this is because both maintain their unique styles, hidden away in various corners of Taichung. Mokaku has three locations, and Denroku has just opened its third branch: the Academy Branch, situated in an alley near the junction of Jianxing Road and Xueshi Road.

I recently found out that Denroku has opened another branch. What always attracts me isn’t just the food — it’s the experience of walking into the space, which is essentially a beautifully captivating renovation of an old building. I had this feeling when I visited the first branch (on Meicun Road), and the exterior of the second branch (Xiao Gongyuan Branch) completely enchanted me. Now, the third branch (Academy Branch) still gives me that same simple, deep affection for old houses — a kind of subtle intoxication created through tasteful, harmonious touches that make the space uniquely charming.

It's currently the opening trial period, so phone reservations aren't available. Since the shop opens at 10 AM on Sundays, we arrived right on time. There were already a few people ahead of us, but luckily we didn’t have to wait long before getting a table.

The understated sign 【Denroku For Farm】 hangs modestly by the door and on the wall. If you don’t look closely, you might think it’s just a regular residence — but it’s precisely this low-key vibe that makes it so appealing.

When the first branch opened, I remember thinking Denroku was a bit pricier than other places, yet it still had a naturally magnetic charm. I think anyone who’s eaten here knows it’s all about the ingredients — they’re so fresh it feels like you’re being nourished by nature itself. That’s when I thought this place would definitely become popular, and sure enough, it now has three branches and a loyal fan base ^~^

The courtyard out front is so romantic. If I could have one, I’d love to own an old house with a big yard like this.

There’s something endlessly vibrant about a space like this courtyard — maybe it’s a plant you see every day, a patch of green lawn, or even that little lamp or wooden door. It makes you feel like having a home like this would be perfect for enjoying the breeze at night or immersing yourself in the changing seasons of nature.

Before entering, there’s a small sign on the door that says 【Please close the door behind you】. It’s so tiny, but that smallness actually draws more attention. Compared to a large acrylic sign, this handwritten note carries warmth, subtly encouraging visitors to care and cherish the space.

We initially thought there might be seats on the second floor, so we headed up. The second floor is divided into left and right sections. Compared to other places, it’s not very large — the whole Denroku space might only fit around thirty people max, XD. But it’s this just-right capacity that makes everyone feel uncrowded and comfortable.

Most of the seating here consists of two-person tables, which can be combined to make four-person tables. There’s also one large table that can seat up to eight people. Everything has a warm wooden vibe.

It’s the kind of space that makes you want to take a second look. It feels like this place is about more than just serving food. Perhaps it’s also trying to find others who appreciate this simple, slightly MUJI-style way of life. There’s an attraction in the purity of white and wood tones, and among the steady stream of customers, the possibility of finding new “friends.”

The small door leading to the restroom. It used to get quite stuffy because of the sunlight, but this partitioned space seems to hold some kind of secret charm.

A large display cabinet and chairs in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, along with the glossy terrazzo flooring. Sometimes, it’s the charm of these elements themselves that washes over us passersby, teaching us to appreciate things not because they’re old, but because of how we choose to cherish them.

On the other side of the second-floor space, there are many single-person seats. These spots really caught my eye — perfect for spending a relaxed morning alone with a laptop and a few books during the week.

There are also cozy window-side seats for solo diners, offering privacy without having to face someone directly. It truly feels like the 【Denroku Third Branch】 is looking out for 【singles】.

Back downstairs, passing the stairway from the second floor, the kitchen area concealed behind yellow curtains, and the small scene by the counter, we got ready to order our meal for the three of us.

The Denroku counter has always been one of my favorite parts — whether it’s the display cabinets, books, cups, coffee machine, or even the staff, who always speak softly and calmly, making you feel more at ease too. ^^

Then there’s that huge chalkboard menu. The handwriting and illustrations are so attractive, filled with warmth and a sense of individuality, telling the story of 【Denroku】 in a way that feels irreplaceably unique each time.

So even before the opening, word had already spread online, drawing many people to this “lifestyle brunch” spot that’s more than just a temporary trend.　

While chatting, I went ahead and ordered the most luxurious option for all three of us: the 【Forest France】 for 310 NT. Denroku doesn’t offer a 10% service charge, and its prices have always been on the higher end of the brunch spectrum. Another well-known high-end option is Mokaku.

But honestly, the quality of the ingredients at both places is reassuring, so treating ourselves once in a while leaves us feeling refreshed both physically and mentally. XD　

The first thing to arrive was the pre-meal juice: grape juice. It had that freshly blended feel — no artificial coloring like you often see in store-bought grape juices. Instead, it had a natural light purple and dark red hue. It tasted pure and made me feel genuinely happy.

Then we all gasped. Even though we knew the 【Forest France】 was going to be lavish, seeing it in person still left us speechless.

Since all three of us wanted to try the French toast (an Academy Branch specialty), bacon, and more, we opted for this ultra-luxurious brunch set. When it arrived, the presentation and color scheme were stunning. Shades of red, green, and creamy yellow showcased just how abundant this brunch was.

I carefully pointed out each item on the plate, going clockwise: roasted vegetables (I think the pumpkin and sweet potato were roasted — the skin was edible and had just the right tenderness!), a salad (nearly half the plate), the classic French toast, a passion fruit, thick-cut bacon, and wild mushrooms underneath, plus a bowl of creamy corn chowder.

The roasted pumpkin in the vegetable mix was likely roasted as well, with the skin tender enough to eat. The softness was just perfect. The baby corn and broccoli were fresh too, bursting with the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

From every angle, this plate just radiates happiness—so colorful and abundant, it feels like a true feast!

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Looking at the thick slices of bacon from the side, you can tell these are not your ordinary bacon—they’re at least twice as thick, and they have this hearty grilled-meat texture that’s incredibly satisfying. The little girl loved them so much she even stole a few slices of mine, XD!

I’m absolutely in love with the grilled wild mushrooms underneath. One great thing about Denraku is that they don’t drown each dish in sauce—everything is simply blanched or grilled to preserve the most authentic flavors of the ingredients!

This French toast—it’s a small round one?! The outside is super crispy, but the inside has this custardy sweetness. Drizzled with the included honey (some netizens say it’s maple syrup, XD), every bite has so many layers. You get the crunch on the outside, the soft and smooth texture inside, and after two pieces, I was totally full, XD!

And then there’s this bowl of corn chowder—so praiseworthy. Especially since the older girl isn’t usually a big fan of corn chowder, but the little girl loves it, yet somehow both of them finished it super happily. They polished off the whole bowl in no time, and the older girl even asked if it could be ordered separately, XD. You can see the corn in the soup is hand-cut, the broth is rich and fresh, giving off that comforting “mom-cooked” vibe~

For drinks after the meal, we chose cola and lychee black tea. The black tea has a lovely lychee aroma and is very smooth. Chilled, it’s perfect for a sunny holiday morning~

There are some places that make you want to visit them the moment you hear about them—not just for the food, but maybe more for the warmth of the people and the ambiance. And 【Denraku】 gives me exactly that feeling. Sharing it with you all~ ^^

【Denraku Store #3, College Branch】
Address: No. 3, Lane 425, Jianxing Rd., North District, Taichung City (near China Medical University, intersection of Jianxing Rd. and Xueshi Rd.)
Phone: 04-2234-3535
Business Hours: 10:00-17:00 (last order at 16:00). Temporarily closed on Tuesdays during trial period, will be open daily after official opening.

Seat reservations currently not available.

Article author:［Enjoying Life Without Boredom. Gui Xiao Sun］