By MOOK Scenic Spots Family / Compiled Report
In a Taipei saturated with chain coffee shops, finding a place to enjoy coffee in a traditional, cozy café is already a challenge—let alone when even convenience stores now serve freshly brewed coffee on demand. Many old flavors are gradually fading from the urban landscape. But there are still a few cafés that, thanks to their owners’ dedication, preserve the timeless aroma of hand-brewed coffee.
A café as old as our grandparents. (Photo / Celebrity Café)
1.Celebrity Café
Located in Ximending for over 60 years, Celebrity Café was reopened by a fallen Russian nobleman and a graduate of Taipei Municipal High School, reviving the original café that once stood in Shanghai’s concession area. The café serves Russian-style coffee and desserts, especially the Russian jelly candies—soft and fluffy with a crispy walnut center—that were once the afternoon tea of the Russian imperial family.
South American Café is a long-established favorite that parents will definitely know. (Photo / South American Café)
2.South American Café
South American Café is a highly popular old-school coffee shop. Opening at 8 AM, you can enjoy a ham and egg sandwich with an Americano, and during the afternoon tea session, they even serve a few cookies. Another branch in Shilin is also a well-reputed, bustling old café.
The interior has a low-key vintage style reminiscent of a black bean workshop. (Photo / Black Bean Workshop)
3.Black Bean Workshop Coffee
Nestled beside the bustling Zhongshan North Road, Black Bean Workshop has a very retro look, with beautiful rose-patterned cups placed on elegant tablecloths, evoking the atmosphere of an English gentleman’s afternoon tea. Even the coffee names are poetic—the Latte is called “Nadie,” featuring rich, creamy milk paired with the owner’s special caramel, creating a truly lovely drink.
The historic Qingdao Bee Café. (Photo / Qingdao Bee Café)
4.Qingdao Bee Café
This long-standing Bee Café near the Legislative Yuan has a highly historical-looking exterior. Its biggest highlight is the made-to-order business lunches, including dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and braised pig trotters, with the menu changing daily. After a satisfying meal, pairing it with a cup of coffee feels like replenishing both energy and spirit.
At Fengda Café, you can enjoy not only great coffee but also classic Taiwanese snacks. (Photo / Fengda Café)
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