NuNu Cafe 412, JianXing Road (near XueShi Road and China Medical College Hospital) (04) 2238-7431 Hours:7 am-6 pm (open 8 am-12 pm Sundays)

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--By Jennifer Roberts Translated by Kiki Wu

Nestled behind an awning of hanging plants, Nunu Cafe feels like a little oasis within the bustling city. Soft international melodies play just loud enough to lighten a relaxed conversation. The outdoor covered seating area lets only the breezes and a bit of sunlight onto the patio. Although located right on JianXing Road, this place envelopes you in leafy green surroundings and mellow music.

This hidden restaurant is a sweet find in a part of town that otherwise is lacking in international dining. The best time of day to stop in is between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., when the lunch menu offers a pleasing selection of pastas, salads and Thai-style curries. The prices remain competitive despite Nunu's distance from similar eateries, with most dishes falling between NT$85 and NT$110. Each meal comes in a satisfying portion and includes a small salad and green tea.

More than just filling, the dishes are pleasingly tasty. The pasta bakes are packed with fresh vegetables and layered with the right amount of cheese, while the Japanese-style salad is light with slices of juicy chicken. The flavorful pumpkin soup comes with a German-style potato salad that is chunky like my mom makes it.

The menu changes slightly throughout the day, but a parched city dweller can always find the means to quench their thirst with the variety of teas, coffees, milk teas and fruit juices served all day. Cakes and snacks common to most Taiwanese tea shops are also listed on the regular menu. Before 11 a.m. and after 1:30 p.m., croissant and bagel sandwiches make up the breakfast and tea time set meals that each cost NT$95 or less. These can be accompanied with a drink for an extra NT$50. Non-lunch items are not listed in English, but the friendly Taiwanese servers are always happy to help you figure out what you're craving.