Tsai Ming-liang’s Coffee Corridor — Brews “Tranquility” into Every Cup

▲ Why “Corridor” instead of “Café”? The answer becomes clear the moment you step inside.

Reported and photographed by Chen Tzu-yin / Taipei

In a city teeming with cafés, this one stands out with its unique, artsy ambiance — a hint of which is right in its name: “Tsai Ming-liang’s Coffee Corridor.” That’s right, it’s a café opened by none other than acclaimed filmmaker Tsai Ming-liang.

Nestled within Taipei’s second-class historic site, Zhongshan Hall, the café came to be when Tsai Ming-liang, along with partners Lee Kang-sheng and Lu Yi-ching, learned that a space on the fourth floor was to be leased out. Tsai proposed the idea of a café, which was approved. The classic charm of Zhongshan Hall feels like an “oasis” amid the bustling city, and Tsai Ming-liang’s Coffee Corridor is like a quaint little shop nestled within it — a peaceful spot to savor a great cup of coffee.

 
▲ Left and right: Several vintage women’s “dressing tables” are one of the café’s distinctive features.

 
▲ Left and right: Oil paintings and a small wooden horse add a touch of childlike whimsy to the space.

The café serves coffee, juice, tea, as well as light desserts and cookies. You could easily spend an entire day here, watching the sun shine brightly, then a sudden afternoon thunderstorm, followed by the golden hues of sunset, before night falls. The classic latte at Tsai Ming-liang’s café boasts a rich flavor that also brings a sense of calm; even the savory items aren’t ordinary — they’re “Tsai’s private dishes,” featuring several Malaysian flavors, showcasing Tsai Ming-liang’s thoughtful attention to detail.

 
▲ Classic latte, rich and delicious.

 
▲ Left: “Apple Pomelo Mate Tea” with added apple and pomelo bits; you can actually taste the fruit. Right: Craving juice? They have that too.

 
▲ Tsai’s private dish, “Wild Vegetable Char Siu Rice Noodles,” features chewy noodles with fragrant barbecued pork — everyone who tries it loves it.

Unlike his first café, “Tsai Li Lu Coffee,” this one is fully integrated into the main building. Vintage cabinets, sofa chairs, clocks, paired with a row of arched windows and red retro-style “train seats” make it nearly impossible not to feel at ease.

 
▲ A full day of tranquility can be spent here. Right: The meeting space at the back features an artistic long painting.


▲ The red seats are real train seats. Even on weekends, the café stays peaceful despite the crowd.

【Shop Information】
Tsai Ming-liang’s Coffee Corridor
Address: 4F, No. 98, Yanping S. Rd., Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
(Near Exit 5 of Ximen MRT Station)
Phone: (02) 2331-2727
Business Hours: Monday–Sunday, 10:00–21:00
Notes: Minimum spend of NT$90 per person; free Wi-Fi available


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