Tranquil teahouses tucked away in Taipei’s urban alleys — tea paired with cakes amid greenery

Text and photos by /Food Cravings, Snapshots

My close friends seem to have gotten used to me deciding where we meet every time, and they never object to any restaurant I suggest—even if we all end up hating the place in the end (laughs). But today was special. I chose a quiet and cozy teahouse called Urban Grass Barn. Yes, this place only serves tea, no coffee, but there are still desserts and cakes that fit the afternoon tea vibe.
/ Cherry.

Located near the Gongguan shopping district and National Taiwan University campus, Urban Grass Barn was something I stumbled upon online—otherwise, I probably wouldn’t have wandered down this quiet alley. Ever since I worked on a Taiwan tea-themed project for my graduation exhibition, I hadn’t properly enjoyed a good cup of tea. My life seems to have been taken over by coffee, and sometimes I find myself missing the gentle aroma of tea.

Hidden within a house in the alley, Urban Grass Barn’s entrance is adorned with potted plants, adding a touch of greenery and vitality.

Stepping inside, the space is simple and neat, lacking any trendy elements, but the atmosphere is incredibly inviting. Some people chat softly, others work alone—the overall ambiance is peaceful and stress-free. The air is lightly scented with tea, as if the fragrance is wafting from the steam, carrying a hint of hot water’s warmth.

I asked the owner, “Can we sit on that lawn by the window?” “Yes, but remember to take off your shoes first!” So my friend and I claimed the only sunny corner in the shop, sitting on the artificial turf and sipping tea. My friend joked that it felt a bit like a picnic.

On the shelves next to the tea counter are small plates filled with various types of tea leaves—you can come here to sniff and appreciate the aromas.

Milk Candy Cake $80

The cake that caught my eye the most on the menu was this milk candy cake. As soon as it was served, I could smell a faintly sweet aroma, reminiscent of toffee. I really liked this cake—the cake part was soft and slightly moist, while the filling had a rich milk candy flavor, paired with popcorn that had a caramel-like taste, creating a layered texture. The only thing I didn’t quite enjoy was the meringue.

Youthful Years—15 $120

Ordering this “Youthful Years” tea at the age of 15 felt a bit embarrassing—how long has it been since I was actually 15? (hides face) I mainly wanted to try it because of the menu description. It’s actually Taiwan’s Jin Xuan tea, and the “Youthful Years” series on the menu includes three options: 15, 20, and 25, symbolizing three classic Taiwanese teas through the ages of a woman. I really liked this concept. The aroma of Jin Xuan tea is just like the feeling of being 15, at the cusp of adolescence, when feelings start to blossom—subtle yet lingering, making you want to savor it again.

What my friend orderedRed Velvet Cake $80, Red Tip Milk $180

The red velvet cake was a bit sweeter, which my friend found acceptable, though I personally didn’t care for the flavor. But I absolutely loved the Red Tip Milk my friend ordered—it’s made with the shop’s highest-grade black tea leaves. Surprisingly, it had a delicate milky aroma, smooth and delicious. I fell in love with it after one sip. Apparently, these tea leaves are produced in limited quantities—only thirty jin a year—and only the precious bud tips are used.

There are actually two resident cats at the teahouse, but they were probably too hot and bothered that day, as they stayed curled up in their corners, not moving an inch. I hope to see their playful side next time I visit.

Urban Grass Barn C-tea Loft

Address: No. 4, Lane 19, Alley 283, Section 3, Roosevelt Road, Da’an District, Taipei City (Exit 2 of Taipei City Hall MRT Station)
Phone: 02-2366-0381
Business Hours: Mon–Fri 11:00–22:00, Sat–Sun 10:00–23:00
Facebook:Urban Grass Barn C-tea Loft
Reservations available, takeout available, no time limit, no service charge

Food Cravings, Snapshots
Wandering among the busy yet leisurely-paced lives of Taipei residents.
Loves uncovering hidden culinary gems tucked away in the city, alleys, and right by your doorstep, passionate about exploring places with stories.
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