Vintage charm with retro furniture, and classic delights at a Parisian-style brunch

▲ From outside the door, the diners at merci cafe evoke a tranquil and leisurely comfort.

Reported and photographed by intern reporter Qiu Yunrong / Taipei

In the afternoon, turn into an alleyway, and from outside the door, you can sense a tranquil and leisurely comfort in the diners at merci cafe. Once inside, the slightly weathered walls made of old red bricks, paired with vintage furnishings, exude a strong retro vibe. The serene and mysterious ambiance remains bright, offering a relaxed leisureliness with a touch of classical romance.

Named the"Parisian Brunch"it’s a healthy combination of soft croissants, fresh smoked salmon, and sunny-side-up eggs. The cream cheese sauce on the plate is an essential delicious pairing. The smoked salmon, spread with cream cheese, has its fishy smell suppressed, becoming smoother and richer with the creaminess. The salmon tastes even sweeter in the mouth and is also perfect for spreading on croissants. Owner Emma says that as long as the ingredients are fresh, simple seasonings can create amazing dishes.

Additionally, a hint of acidity also complements the texture of the smoked salmon. A squeeze of lemon and some capers can bring out the sweetness of the purple onion and salmon, offering two delightful flavors in one dish. The poached egg drizzled with honey mustard salad dressing adds moisture to the otherwise dry yolk, while the flavor of honey mustard blends in, making it quite unique.


▲ The healthy and delicious Parisian brunch—with the softness of the croissant and the umami of the smoked salmon—makes your mouth water before even taking a bite.

Crispy fried horse mackerel cutlets paired with Merci café's homemade lemon tartar sauce are truly unforgettable. Emma mentioned that the lemon tartar sauce is made with yogurt, plus eggs, pickles, onions, and fresh lemon pulp. The light, refreshing lemon taste complements the crispy fried horse mackerel, completely masking the greasiness of the fried food. With each bite, you not only taste the soft and tender horse mackerel but also enjoy the fresh lemon pulp. The sweet and tangy flavor of the fish is refreshing and flavorful.


▲ Crispy fried horse mackerel cutlets with lemon tartar sauce—the fresh pulp in the sauce makes the greasiness after frying disappear, resulting in a refreshing and smooth bite.

Another dish in the Petit Brunch is a French baguette spread thickly with basil pesto. With one bite, the mild basil flavor stands out, and as you chew, the texture-rich French bread becomes more flavorful, with the aroma of the green pesto filling your mouth. Slightly grilled king oyster mushrooms with a touch of olive oil, seasoned with a little sea salt and pepper, release bursts of sweet mushroom juice with each bite. Paired with the firm texture of the mushroom itself, it leaves a lingering aftertaste.
 

▲ The slightly weathered walls made of old red bricks, paired with vintage furnishings, exude a strong retro vibe.

Merci café
Address: No. 29, Lane 7, Xinmin St., Banqiao District, New Taipei City
Phone: 02-8953 3906
Business Hours:
Monday: 9:00 - 21:00
Wednesday - Sunday: 9:00 - 21:00
Average Price: NT$25–300