Room A was introduced to me by a friend during a weekend visit to Tainan in October 2019. Hidden on the third floor of a non-descript building, it was a pleasant surprise. It is a paradise for a bookworm. The owner used to run a second-hand bookstore.
The visit
The cafe shares the entrance with a bed and breakfast.
From the sign, my understanding is that from 10am to 1pm the place operates as a breakfast cafe. Then from 1pm onwards the format changes.
On the door, a sign says “Have a seat & read a book”. It sounds like a plan.
The place has a vintage feeling and, in my opinion, it is beautiful. On one side there is the kitchen behind a big counter and books are everywhere. Books can be taken and read freely. I think the book inventory is all in Chinese. I indulged on a photography magazine.
It was quite busy. And people were really reading books. Obviously, no talking! Customers were advised to keep quiet. I whispered with my friend over lunch.
A number of dishes are available through the day.
I had a burger with egg and bacon.
My friend had a chicken sandwich. In both cases, the bread was nicely toasted and there were no dripping sauces. The food was good and healthy.
Drinks, tea and coffee were included in the usage fee (see below).
They also have a lovely terrace.
The check
The food cost 180 NTD (6 USD).
In addition to the food, there is a usage fee: 1 NTD for every minute inside the cafe. This is an interesting business model. One hour would cost you 60 NTD (arund 2 USD) that is very reasonable if you consider that you can enjoy complimentary coffee and tea. I do not have the final receipt as it was taken care by my friend.
I really liked the place and the format. If I was living in Tainan I would be a regular. I like to think of it as the Tainan’s answer to Starbucks.
Where in Tainan:
3F, 21 Kangle Street.
In Chinese: 中西區康樂街21號3F.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/on.RoomA/.