Written by Monocle Editorial Team
He insists on selling only black coffee, and only hand-brewed coffee. The number of cups he can sell in a day is limited, but Dàtóu has no interest in chasing impressive sales figures. Though he appears gentle and is under thirty, Dàtóu holds unique convictions. "Really, don't accept preconceived notions—I want to start with coffee."
A focused expression and masterful technique embody the spirit of Taichung’s local artisan craftsmanship. (Photo provided by Monocle Editorial Team)
Dàtóu’s philosophy on running a coffee shop is simple yet profound. He focuses solely on the quality of the beans and the accuracy of the brewing process. As for the flavor, he leaves that as a question for customers to discover, hoping they’ll break free from their previous assumptions and experience the moment. "This bag of Yirgacheffe tasted like lemongrass last week." He leaned in to sniff and caught a hint of sweetness. "The flavor of coffee beans changes."
Dàtóu’s shop is tucked away in Zhongxin Market. Buy a cup of coffee, and you’ll get a taste of the rare human warmth found here. (Photo provided by Monocle Editorial Team)
The flavor of each hand-brewed coffee is different—each sip is a private moment between you and the coffee, an irreplaceable exchange of sensations. It can’t even be replicated from one brew to the next. This is what makes coffee so intriguing. That’s why Dàtóu hopes everyone will let go of past biases and simply enjoy the aroma in their cup.
In this tranquil little space, savor not just coffee, but life itself. (Photo provided by Monocle Editorial Team)
Dàtóu doesn’t just sell coffee—he also generously opens up the first-floor space of his café for art exhibitions, offering local artists a platform to showcase their work. In the past six months, there have been around four or five art shows, including static paintings, installations, and live musical performances. Is there a fee? "No, it’s free for them to use."
Listening to Dàtóu’s story with wide eyes, in this chaotic society that often seems bleak, encountering a young person like him is truly humbling.
[Info]
Address: No. 7, Lane 2, Alley 57, Section 1, Wuxi West Road, West District, Taichung City
Phone: 0972-872792
Hours: 14:00–22:00, closed on Mondays
● Read more:
Taichung Handmade Shop Micro-Tour: Discover the Artisan Warmth of Local Stores
http://goo.gl/98Fyzc
Plan your trip now and embark on a handmade shop micro-tour in Taichung. (Photo provided by Monocle Editorial Team)