[Taipei] The first thing that comes to mind in Taiwan is their night markets, with cheap, good and a large variety of food.
Drawing influence from neighbouring countries such as Japan and Korea, I saw a fair share of indie cafes surfacing, even in the hidden alleys within Taiwan.
The Lobby of Simple Kaffa was on my to-go list, simply because of the irresistible Matcha Swiss roll with oozing matcha in the centre.
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The café was founded by 2016’s World Barista Champion Berg Wu – the first person from Taiwan to win the World Barista Championship.
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Even though The Lobby of Simple Kaffa is located within the East District (東區), a popular shopping district for young and hipsters, the premise is tucked away at the basement of design Hotel V.
Hidden away from streetview, but familiar to the regulars.
Making my way down the red-carpeted staircase leading to The Lobby, I was surrounded by many fashion boutiques and huge walls of purple maple leafs (a potential #OOTD spot) with an European flair.
The menu is mainly written in (traditional) Chinese writings, which can be a little tricky for tourists when it comes to ordering.
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To note, a minimum spending of one beverage (desserts not included) is imposed and it applies to all the cafes in Taiwan that I had visited so far.
Somehow, the desserts and drinks resembled that of another cafe we had visited previously – Fujin Tree 353 By Simple Kaffa 富錦樹咖啡
The ambience at Fujin Tree 353 Cafe is more trendy, hipster and artsy fartsy, whereas at The Lobby of Simple Kaffa, was more fuss-free and down-to-earth.
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Their specialty is their hand pour coffee, ranging from Ethiopia (TWD200, SGD$9.40) to Panama Junutungo Geisha (TWD500, SGD$23.40).
For milk-based espresso, Caramel Latte (TWD170 Hot/ TWD180 Iced, SGD$8 Hot/ SGD$8.40 Cold), 1+1 Platter (TWD200, SGD$9.40) and Almond Latte (TWD180 Hot/ TWD190 Iced, SGD$8.40 Hot/ SGD$8.90 Cold) are available.
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I had the Caramel Latte (TWD170 Hot/ TWD180 Iced, SGD$8 Hot/ SGD$8.40 Cold) which was smooth, rich with distinct caramel notes.
The top layer was caramelised to perfection, cracked upon the first sip.
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The highlight was definitely the Matcha Swiss roll (TWD140 dine-in/ TWD180 takeaway, SGD$6.50 dine-in/ SGD$8.40 takeaway), made using Morihan Kyoto Uji Matcha powder known for its premium grade quality.
It was light and airy, with oozing matcha in the centre that made me go “Oishii”!
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Despite The Lobby of Simple Kaffa being a hidden gem due to its location, this place has a huge loyal following that coffee lovers will appreciate apart from their Instagram-worthy Matcha Swiss roll.
The Lobby of Simple Kaffa
敦化南路一段177巷48號B1, Taipei, Taiwan
Hotel V, Songshan District, Lane 177, Section 1, Dunhua South Road, 48號
Opening Hours: 12.30pm – 9.20pm (Sun-Thu), 12.30pm – 9.50pm (Fri-Sat)
https://www.facebook.com/thelobbyofsimplekaffa
Other Related Entries
Fujin Tree 353 富錦樹咖啡 (Taipei)
Ruins Coffee Roaster 小廢墟咖啡 (Taipei)
Rilakkuma Café (Taipei)
* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape who loves all things [NEW]. Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.
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