Unique Starbucks in Taiwan
For those of us with coffee flowing in our bloodstream 24/7, home is where the nearest iconic green and white logo is – even when we’re overseas. While Taiwan is no doubt a haven of bubble tea, you’d probably find yourself craving for a dose of a thicc Starbucks frappe somewhere along the way.
Now that Singaporeans can get visa-free entry to the sweet potato-shaped land, here are 11 pretty Starbucks outlets in Taiwan worth checking out before hitting the night markets for street food.
Read our other Starbucks-related articles:
- Starbucks secret menu items
- Unique Starbucks outlets in Singapore
- Prettiest Starbucks outlets in Japan
- Tried and tested Starbucks hacks for cheaper coffee
1. Toucheng, Yilan – 2-storey cruise-shaped outlet
Image credit: Starbucks Coffee
Enjoy both a “cruise trip” and an overseas holiday when you visit Toucheng Yilan’s Starbucks, a new addition to the town that just opened in 2021. Also known as the “yacht Starbucks” among locals, this wacky building is located just about an hour’s drive from Taipei City Centre.
Image credit: Starbucks Coffee
You’ll pass it en route to Yilan or Hualien, perfect for a quick coffee stop mid-road trip. Inside, the cruise-themed design carries through with a dining space that brings to mind a captain’s deck. If you’re around at nightfall, the architecture in the dark is a sight to behold as well – it’s one level up from the usual #starbies for sure
Image credit: 星巴克宜蘭頭城門市
Address: No. 396號, Section 3, Qingyun Road, Toucheng Township, Yilan County, Taiwan 261
Opening hours: 7.30am-9pm, Daily
Contact: +886 3 977 6579
2. Lihpao Outlet Mall, Taichung – Octagon-shaped clock tower
Image credit: 會一直陪你飛
Lihpao Outlet Mall’s chio clock tower isn’t just a cute backdrop for your travel photos. During your next Taiwan escapade, enter this Starbucks outlet in Taichung that exudes a soft and dreamy European vibe.
It’s decked with decor like a bubble-shaped chandelier hanging off the 2-storey high ceiling, and complete with massive windows for plenty of selfie-worthy natural lighting.
Image credit: Starbucks Coffee
Enjoy that frappe as you marvel at the high ceilings and spacious interior. There’s plenty of room for everyone so you won’t feel overwhelmed by the loud chatter of surrounding cafe-goers.
Address: No. 201 號, Furong Road, Houli District, Taichung City, Taiwan 421
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9.30pm | Fri 11am-10pm | Sat 10am-10pm | Sun 10.30am-9.30pm
Contact: +886 4 2558 4451
3. Bao An, Taipei – Red brick building with tiered chandeliers
Image credit: @hirichardchen
Standing at 3-storeys high by the busy cross juncture of Datong District is Bao An Street’s Starbucks outlet. With its red brick exterior, this ancient building is hard to miss amongst the neighbouring plain buildings in the area.
Image credit: @deanhsu
After ordering at the first storey, head up to the higher floors with your tray of drinks and light bites. Here you’ll find a rustic charm in every detail, starting from their unique dome-shaped doorways to their tiered chandeliers.
Hanging chandeliers and comfy cushioned seats.
Image credit: @saori_the_mokulibra
Framed by Greek-style columns, the windows here have tons of natural light streaking through – perfect for an afternoon of solace with a good read.
Address: No. 11, Bao’an Street, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103
Opening hours: 7am-9.30pm, Daily
Contact: +886 2 2557 8493
4. Hualien Bay, Hualien – Made from 29 stacked shipping containers
Image credit: Starbucks
Made out of 29 shipping containers stacked atop one another, this relatively new Starbucks outlet at Hualien Bay takes the cake. At first glance, it looks like a container market like Artbox or an art installation of sorts – until the iconic mermaid logo is spotted.
Image credit: Funhualien
Each container is painted white and comes with a see-through panel so you don’t have to worry about feeling claustrophobic.
Image credit: Funhualien
Take some time to explore each individual container, as they all come with unique interior decor and furniture styles that differ from one another. Even the walls aren’t alike!
Image credit: Starbucks
Located just outside this outlet is a vibrant Supreme-themed shipping container, where hypebeasts can snap a pic before leaving.
Image credit: @alan_shih_
Address: No. 505, Section 1, Nanbin Road, Ji’an Township, Hualien County, Taiwan 973
Opening hours: 9am-9pm, Daily
Contact: +886 3 842 0014
5. Tianyu, Taipei – With its own garden compound
Image credit: Angelababy
The stone house Starbucks at Tianyu in Taipei has its own steel gates, which lead into a garden compound with looming trees. Inside, you’ll find wooden furniture and a minimalistic MUJI-like look.
Image credit: Starbucks
For those who want a little more natural sunlight, take a seat by the glass window that lets light streak in throughout the day.
Image credit: @chsin_wang
Alternatively, head outdoors for an al fresco experience. There are wooden benches and stools spread across the backyard, where you can enjoy a serene coffee break while shaded by the trees.
Image credit: Hulda Fooda
Address: No. 1, Alley 18, Lane 38, Tianyu Street, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 6.30am-10pm | Fri-Sat 6.30am-10.30pm
Contact: +886 2 2875 1361
6. Minxiong, Chiayi County – Cosy hut with drive-thru
Image credit: @kuomichael
Chiayi Minxiong Starbucks is a quaint outlet by a busy road that catches the eye immediately as you drive by. It’s shaped like a little hut and has a cosy feel to it. Here you’ll find Starbucks’ Coffee & Tea On Tap operating in full-swing – so your cuppa will be even smoother and more intoxicating.
Image credit: Change84
Other than the usual indoor seating area, there are a handful of patio seats outside with umbrellas to shield you from the sun.
Image credit: @w.a.n.g.0717
For those in a rush, simply swing by their drive thru station by the side, where you’ll get to take your order to go swiftly.
Address: No. 235, Section 1, Jianguo Road, Minxiong Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan 621
Opening hours: 7am-10pm, Daily
Contact: +886 5 226 8724
7. Grass Mountain, Taipei – Seasonal cherry blossoms right outside
Cherry blossoms trees in bloom.
Image credit: Starbucks
Don’t be fooled by what looks to be an ordinary terrace house at Yangmingshan National Park – here lies the gorgeous Grass Mountain Starbucks outlet. You can check cherry blossom sightings off your bucket list here if you visit during February and March, as you’ll be surrounded by plenty.
Image credit: @great_photos_tw
Other than hot drinks, this homey outlet also has a classic fireplace within to keep you warm when the temperature drops.
Image credit: @lin_cheryl
The inside is rather understated – save for a large embroidered abstract mural of what looks to be a giant tree and rolling hills.
Image credit: Starbucks
Address: No. 5, Guotai Street, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111
Opening hours: 8am-8pm, Daily
Contact: +886 2 2862 7317
8. Wanhua, Taipei – Ancient mansion from the 1930s
Image credit: @axxycool
For a blast to the past, head to the historic site at Wanhua. This 3-storey building was transformed from a family’s mansion during the Japanese colonial era to the BangKa Starbucks outlet it is today.
Image credit: @ndodesign.tw
From its aged columns to railings, elements of the past building has been kept intact throughout the years. Compared to the simple buildings in the area, this brick one stands out easily.
Image credit: KangKang
Instead of the typical cashier counter where you make your order, this outlet has a bar area where you can interact with the barista while having your drink.
Image credit: @sisiodoc
Its traditional window panes, door, and wide pillars have been well-maintained since 1932, which explains why it might resemble some of those tea houses of the olden days.
Image credit: @sisiodoc
Address: No. 24, Lane 306, Section 1, Xiyuan Road, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7am-9.30pm | Sat-Sun 7.30am-9.30pm
Contact: +886 2 2302 8643
9. Tamsui, Taipei – Glasshouse with lily pad pond
Image credit: Starbucks
Taking on the appearance of a greenhouse amongst lush trees, Tamsui’s Starbucks exudes elegance with its see-through glass panes and artistic elements. Leading to the entrance is a short wooden boardwalk flanked by a pond full of lily pads and a statue of a dancer.
Image credit: LaVie
The reflective bronze decor hanging from above adds a unique touch to the interior, as the sunlight hits them at different angles to reflect light around the place.
Image credit: Starbucks
Beyond the usual seats seen in most Starbucks, this outlet has wavy communal benches suitable for large groups.
It’s fully lit up by natural sunlight during the day, thanks to its floor-to-ceiling glass panes.
Image credit: Starbucks
Address: No. 32-1, Lane 6, Section 1, Zhongzheng Road, Tamsui District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 251
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5.30pm | Sat -Sun 9.30am-6.30pm
Contact: +886 2 2805 5247
10. Chenggong, Taoyuan – Intricate Greek columns
Image credit: @chenyurich
You might mistake Chenggong Starbucks for a historical building or museum thanks to the grandeur of its facade. The entrance is framed by 2 ancient-looking columns with intricate carved details.
Image credit: @thenatashalee
Have your pick of a leather sofa, plush cushioned seats or dark wood chairs in this relaxing space with low light. If you’re travelling with a large group, chope the long table that can fit up to 12 people.
Floral map wallpaper.
Image credit: Tony Tsai
Address: No. 2-1, Section 1, Chenggong Road, Taoyuan District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan 330
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7am-9pm | Sat-Sun 7.30am-9.30pm
Contact: +886 3 347 8230
10. Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf, Taipei – Sea views
Image credit: Uncle Coffee
To get your sightseeing and caffeine fix settled, visit the Starbucks at Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf in Taipei for unbeatable views of the bay. Located on the first floor of Furong Hotel, this outlet offers a clear view of the azure sky and sea.
Image credit: @jihy.ee
You’ll have a space to yourself as the various spots are sectioned off with wooden panes. Other than the simple wooden seats, there are also individual leather and velvet sofas.
Image credit: Kuo Ying Sun
For some fresh air, have your cuppa to go and head to the nearby Lover’s Bridge, where you’ll get to admire the scenic sunset on the horizon.
Lover’s Bridge
Image credit: @g_uru_m
Address: No. 91, Guanhai Road, Tamsui District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 251
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 12pm-7pm | Sat-Sun 9am-8pm
Contact: +886 2 2805 1113
(Closed) Sizihwan Bay, Kaohsiung – Panoramic views overlooking the sea
Image credit: Rex Lin
Climb aboard the Starbucks at Sizihwan Bay, which has a cruise ship-inspired interior. As Kaohsiung is known to be a port city, the theme is especially fitting. It is also furnished with royal red velvet seats and classic steel chairs, along with hanging lights that mimic the oil lamps that are frequently seen in ships.
Hanging lamps.
Image credit: @jijucat
As it’s located by the marina, you’ll get to enjoy a picturesque view of the seemingly endless ocean. Take a seat at the tall bar stools near the window and watch as ships pass by.
Image credit: @stevenho55
Address: No. 14, Shaochuan Street, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan 804
Best Starbucks outlets in Taiwan
Most people visit Taiwan for its scenic views, bubble tea, and exciting night markets – definitely not for a Starbucks run. But with these hidden gems that boast unique decor, it’s hard to resist popping in and sipping on a drink – can’t hurt to add some of them into your itinerary!
Read our other Taiwan articles here:
- Taiwan restaurants with the best high rise views
- Hotels near Taipei shopping districts from $65/Night
- Aesthetically pleasing cafes in Taipei
- Outdoor activities in Taichung & Hualien
- Things to do in Taichung
Cover image adapted from: @kuomichael, Starbucks Coffee, Starbucks, Starbucks
Originally published on 20th December 2019. Last updated by Kezia Tan on 30th September 2022.