Coffee Culture Stories from Kaohsiung
1. Scarcity
Unlike Vietnam, where you can stumble upon a coffee shop every few steps, finding a coffee spot here can be a challenge. I once cycled for nearly half an hour without spotting a single one.
That day, I happened to be in an area without many schools or offices, you know, the usual coffee-frequented spots. After searching for almost 40 minutes, I had to resort to drinking coffee at McDonald's, and I wasn't thrilled about it.
2. Late Openings
The typical opening hours are around 11 AM, with closing time around 6 PM. Some places open earlier and close around 10 PM, but they're not very common.
It's quite different from the culture in Hanoi, where you can grab a coffee at 7:30 AM or even at 10:30 PM!
3. Small Spaces
Large coffee chains usually have spacious locations. However, smaller, independent coffee shops often have a very limited area.
Yesterday, I visited a cafe voted as one of the top 10 unique coffee shops in Kaohsiung, known for its vintage style. Inside, I counted only five tables. Yes, five inside! Add two tables in the courtyard, and it could seat maybe 16 people. There were also two bar counters that could accommodate around 6-8 more.
I once went to a cafe where the table was barely big enough for a laptop!
But these tiny coffee shops all share a common trait: a warm, friendly atmosphere. People sit and chat quietly, surrounded by warm lighting and the aroma of coffee. It's incredibly chill.
4. Time Limits
Due to the limited space, this cafe I visited yesterday had a rule: if there are customers waiting, each table has a maximum time limit of 90 minutes. If no one is waiting, feel free to stay longer!
5. Mild Flavor
If you're used to Vietnamese-style coffee with a phin filter and iced milk, you might find the coffee here... bland.
It took me a while to adjust to the American-style coffee here. It can be quite watery! But after getting used to it, I actually enjoy it now, haha.
6. Beautiful Decor
No matter what, coffee shops here have a distinct Taiwanese vibe.
7. Strict About Smoking
Smoking inside is definitely not allowed.
If you want to smoke, you have to go outside or choose a table in the outdoor area from the beginning.
Shop Info: Goodvibe coffee, 左營區新上街307巷2號👌
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