Taiwan’s Coffee Scene: Revolution in a Cup

When you think of Taiwan, coffee might not be the first thing that comes to mind—but let me tell you, this place is brewing something special. Taiwan’s coffee culture is a wild blend of tradition, innovation, and straight-up passion. It’s unexpected, bold, and full of character.

Walk through Taipei, and you’ll see it firsthand. Tiny alleyway cafés serving meticulously brewed pour-overs. Specialty shops pushing the boundaries of flavor. And local roasters who treat their beans like music; expressive, and full of soul. The appreciation for single-origin, high-altitude Taiwanese coffee is next level. These beans, grown in places like Alishan, have this rich, almost tea-like quality that’s smooth but complex—kind of like a well-aged record that keeps revealing new layers every time you spin it.

But what really stands out? The DIY spirit. Whether it’s a hole-in-the-wall espresso bar or a sleek third-wave shop, there’s a dedication to craft that feels like the indie music scene, but for caffeine addicts.

So if you ever find yourself in Taiwan, skip the chain spots, of which there are many. Seek out the hidden gems. Trust me—this coffee hits different.