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Have you ever considered that a food trip to Chiayi could include not only tasting local eats but also visiting historic homes reborn with new life? Today, we’ll take you on a “side mission” through Chiayi’s old-house food scene: enjoy brunch in a former newspaper building, have corn mousse ice cream in a transformed print shop café, and finish off with a curry dango set in a former tailor shop. This journey blends vintage charm with creative flair—get ready for a feast of stories and flavor!

Chiayi Scooter Rentals｜Pick up from Chiayi Train Station

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Chiayi Food｜Oasis Brunch

Oasis Brunch｜Brunch in a Former Newspaper Office

First stop: Oasis Brunch. This historic building once housed the Taiwan Times newspaper. Step inside and you’ll immediately sense the old pressroom’s framework and architectural charm—the walls and décor preserve traces of the building’s original character. Sunlight floods the high-ceiling space, infusing warmth into the atmosphere.

The brunch portions here are generous, with the Miso Grilled Chicken Thighs as a crowd favorite. Two large thighs are marinated in rich miso sauce and roasted until golden, locking in juicy flavors with a hint of sweetness. For something more filling, try the Grand Breakfast Plate (NT$270), which includes pork belly bacon, German sausage, grilled chicken thigh, and scrambled eggs—a power-packed start to your day.

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• Address: No. 161, Lanjing St., East Dist., Chiayi City 600
• Phone: 0912-485-536
• Hours: Closed Thursdays, open 09:00–17:00 on other days

Chiayi Food｜Koffee Suika

Koffee Suika｜A Rice Store Turned Stylish Coffee Takeout Bar

After brunch, it’s time for coffee. Hidden in an alley, Koffee Suika used to be a rice shop and now operates as a Japanese-style takeout coffee spot. The weathered facade and wooden signage maintain the rustic appeal of the original structure while reflecting the owner’s thoughtful design touches.

There’s no indoor seating, but the bench outside and the nostalgic street view make it perfect for photo ops. The signature Watermelon Coffee may sound unusual—combining robust coffee with watermelon sorbet—but it’s unexpectedly refreshing and smooth, especially ideal for Chiayi’s hot weather. A must-try for adventurous foodies and Instagrammers alike.

• Address: No. 141, Beirong St., West Dist., Chiayi City 600
• Hours: Closed Thu & Fri; Open 11:00–17:00 on other days

Chiayi Attraction｜Chiayi Sawmill

Chiayi Sawmill｜A Tour Through Japanese-Era Architecture

Next up is a non-food stop: Chiayi Sawmill. While not a repurposed shop, the entire site preserves its strong Japanese heritage with wooden buildings, railway history exhibits, and the story of Chiayi’s logging industry. Slow down and take in the aroma of timber and the tranquil park setting.

There are occasional craft fairs selling handmade items, art, and snacks—if you happen to visit during one, you might just leave with both hands full! Guided tours are also available to learn more about Chiayi’s forestry history and the restoration of old structures.

• Address: No. 4, Linsen W. Rd., East Dist.., Chiayi City 600 (Alishan Forestry Village)
• Hours: Closed Mon & Tue; Open 09:00–17:00 on other days

Hermit & Co

Hermit & Co｜Savoring Corn Mousse Ice Cream in a Print Shop

After a peaceful stroll through Chiayi Sawmill, make your way to Hermit & Co for a creative afternoon tea. This old printing house is now a café filled with the aroma of coffee and baked treats. The original wooden structures remain, blending rustic charm with modern elegance.

The highlight here is the Corn Mousse Soft Serve—a playful mix of sweet and salty with hints of caramel bitterness. For the full vintage experience, head upstairs to the second floor with its century-old timber beams. Note that there’s a NT$400 minimum spend per person upstairs, but you can still enjoy a drink or dessert in style.

• Address: No. 209, Chengren St., East Dist., Chiayi City 600
• Hours: Closed Thursdays; Open 11:00–18:00
  2F has a NT$400 minimum. Reservations recommended.

Chiayi Food｜Shin Huamei Tailor Shop

Shin Huamei Tailor Shop｜A Tailor Shop That Now Serves Dango & Curry

For the final stop, how about a savory meal to wrap up the day? Shin Huamei Tailor Shop was once an actual tailor’s studio, and the shop still features vintage sewing machines, classic suits, and old pricing boards. With tatami-style seating, it offers a nostalgic dining vibe infused with Showa-era aesthetics.

While the specialty is dango (Japanese rice dumplings), they also serve satisfying mains like the Curry Dango Set (NT$370) or the Showa Curry Set (NT$320). The rich, slightly spicy curry pairs perfectly with rice. End the meal with a sweet dango or fluffy pancake. Seating is limited but cozy—ideal for immersing yourself in a bygone era with a modern twist.

• Address: No. 80, Chengren St., East Dist., Chiayi City 600
• Phone: 0919-359-158
• Hours: Daily 11:00–17:30

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